Find new discoveries during a road trip through Delaware. Drive along scenic roads to explore top spots off the beaten path. Whether you have a several days or just a weekend, get inspired to build the perfect road trip through Delaware with these ideas:
For the outdoor lover
Northern: Head to Brandywine Creek State Park and take the unpaved 4-mile round trip trail right along the water or bring an innertube on warmer days to float down the gentle river.
Central: Bicyclists will love the 14.8 mile Amish Country Bike Route which loops through the flat countryside of the central Delaware. You’ll see farms, animals and maybe even be passed by a horse and buggy!
Southern: Rent a kayak and weave through the baldcypress trees rising from the water at Trap Pond State Park or hike the 7 mile trail surrounding the water.
Route: Maximize your adventure time by hopping on DE-1 which travels the length of the state or if you’re looking for scenic views, consider taking one of Delaware’s scenic byways for a relaxing drive with beautiful scenery. The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway is a great option for northern Delaware while the Delaware Bayshore Byway will take you along the coast further downstate.
Where to dine: Take advantage of one of Delaware’s great waterfront dining locations like Sambo’s Tavern where you’ll see watermen docking their boats and brining in the day’s catch right from the Delaware Bay or Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen right on the water at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal which neighbors the beautiful Cape Henlopen State Park.
Where to stay: Consider taking advantage of one of the Delaware State Parks unique lodging options. Check out the recently renovated campgrounds at Cape Henlopen State Park, pondside cabins at Killens Pond or yurts at Trap Pond State Park.
For the laid back visitor
Northern: Take a relaxing stroll along the Wilmington Riverfront where you can take advantage of beautiful scenery when you dine outside at a spot like Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant and a sweet treat from Drop Squad Kitchen.
Central: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to take in coastal beauty. The refuge is home to tons of wildlife like deer, foxes and dozens of bird species. Check out the boardwalk trails through the marshland or opt for a drive. Pack the camera, you never know what you might see!
Southern: A relaxing summer weekend in Delaware isn’t complete without a day at the beach! Find the best beach for you with this handy guide.
Route: Kick back and enjoy the bay breeze when you take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Bring the binoculars to see great coastal views and shorebirds soaring overhead.
Where to Dine: Enjoy a delicious meal and a brew at one of several brew pubs that can be found on the Delaware on Tap app. Try Iron Hill in northern Delaware, Brick Works in central or Dogfish Brewings and Eats down south. Or try some tasty local seafood with a waterfront view at Catch 54 in Selbyville.
Where to Stay: Pamper yourself with a relaxed, luxurious stay at the AAA Four Diamond Hotel Du Pont in Wilmington or choose the quirky off-centered vibe of Lewes’ Dogfish Inn situated in the heart of a sleepy beach town.
For the history lover
Northern: Step centuries back in time when you visit historic New Castle. You’ll be charmed by the cobblestone streets lining blocks of historic buildings. Stretch your legs with a walk along the river in Battery Park.
Central: Enjoy a day in Dover where you’ll enjoy brick sidewalks, historic homes and the Old State House which dates back to 1791. Click here to see tour options including self-guided options and ones led by historical interpreters.
Southern: The charming, history-rich coastal town of Lewes is a must stop for history lovers. Visit the Zwaanendael Museum to learn about the towns maritime history or travel a bit further south to the Indian River Life Saving Station, built back in 1876 to learn about the coastal economy of colonial times.
Route: Take the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway which will take you past historic sites between northern and central Delaware.
Where to Dine: Enjoy a savory dinner at Cantwell’s Tavern. This restaurant was originally built in 1822 as a hotel and tavern and has since been fully restored to create a charming atmosphere. Or head to The Counting House at Georgetown’s Brick Hotel, built in 1836. The restaurant serves up locally sourced meals with farm fresh veggies and seafood right from the Delaware coast.
Where to Stay: Experience upscale hospitality at the Inn at Montchanin where you can stay in one of 28 18th century style guest rooms or the historic Causey Mansion Bed and Breakfast in Milford.