Off the Beaten Path

Ready for the adventurous feeling as you travel off the beaten path in Delaware? From hidden gems to local favorites, here is a look at ways to take the road less traveled. Speaking of roads, make sure to travel one of Delaware’s scenic byways to make the most of your adventure. 

Ashland Nature Center and Mt. Cuba Center

These two secluded gems of natural beauty in Northern Delaware are must-see destinations for traveling off the beaten path in Delaware.

At the Ashland Nature Center, explore 130 acres of woodlands, meadows, marsh, the scenic Red Clay Creek, and four miles of nature trails. A great spot for birding, visitors can discover wildlife of all kinds along a series of interpretive trails including the Hawk Watch, Butterfly Habitat, Bird Blind, and Hummingbird Haven. All trails are pet-friendly.

Mt. Cuba Center is a renowned botanic garden committed to the conservation of native plants and their habitats. The gardens are open from April to November. Pack a picnic and explore the more than 1,000 acres of trails and gardens. Guided tours are offered at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. daily.

Auburn Valley State Park

Nestled along the Red Clay Creek and home to the world’s largest operating collection of Stanley Steamer cars, Auburn Valley State Park highlights the area’s rich industrial history. Unique architecture abounds, from the Marshall Mansion to rare 19th century bridges to the historic bank barn of the Oversee Farm. Hike, tour, and explore at Auburn Valley! Be sure to explore the adjacent Marshall Steam Museum during your visit.

Fort Delaware

On an island in the middle of the Delaware River, Fort Delaware stands tall as a bastion of U.S. military defense and a reminder of the great sacrifices made during wartime in America. Once a camp for Confederate POWs during the Civil War, Fort Delaware has been maintained and restored to tell the stories of those who served and those who were imprisoned at the fort. Start your visit in Delaware City where you can grab lunch at a local restaurant before taking a ferry to Pea Patch Island and Fort Delaware. 

Sambo’s Tavern (Leipsic)

A visit to Delaware is only complete once you’ve picked a fresh, hot, steamed blue-claw crab at an authentic crabhouse. This is one of the best and has been a local favorite for more than 50 years. Take in views of the scenic Leipsic River while getting delightfully messy.

Air Mobility Command Museum

Where do old airplanes go? The lucky ones go to the Air Mobility Command Museum in Dover, Delaware - the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to airlift and air refueling history! Featuring a fascinating collection of rare vintage aircraft. Climb aboard planes ranging from World War II propeller aircraft to current four-engine jet transports. Try out the flight simulators and enjoy free guided tours. Be sure to visit on Open Cockpit Days - the third Saturday of every month through October - and hear from retired crew members of the airplanes who describe their personal experience with the aircraft, bringing the aircraft to life for visitors. 

Killens Pond State Park

This hidden gem in central Delaware offers 66 acres of peaceful wooded trails, paddle boat rentals, and an on-site water park. Trails are pet-friendly - just remember to leash your pet and clean up after them! A new state-of-the art elevated boardwalk allows pedestrians and bikers a safe passage along Killens Pond Road while benches and bump outs allow for wildlife watching and fishing. If you're planning to visit multiple state parks during your visit to Delaware, save with an annual pass from Delaware State Parks!

Lavender Fields

From an 1800’s fruit farm to a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, this property is rich in Delaware history. Explore the lavender fields, the bee and butterfly garden, and the dahlia garden. During your visit, be sure to stop into the cottage store to purchase a variety of relaxing lavender products made on-site. Stop in to the Wildflower Cafe to pick up a grab-and-go snack to eat while you stroll the gardens.

Delaware Botanic Gardens

The Delaware Botanic Gardens is a world-class, inspirational, educational, and sustainable public botanic garden in southern Delaware, created for the benefit and enjoyment of all. Come see what treasures lie along Delaware’s Inland Bays and revel in one of the best places downstate to enjoy nature.

Farmers Markets

Locals know that the perfect place for in-season produce and handcrafted goods is one of Delaware's farmers markets. Some of the top locations include the Riverwalk in Milford, the longest running farmers market in the state, and historic Lewes, which features cooking demonstrations from local chefs.