Delaware's Top 5 Fall Drives
Pack the binoculars and a camera to experience Delaware’s fall foliage in all its splendor during a leisurely autumn drive. With its location in the heart of the mid-Atlantic, Delaware is perfect for travelers looking to plan a day trip or a weekend jaunt. Scenic venues from the coastal areas where migrating birds flock by the thousands to the wooded hills of the north are awaiting your visit.
Prime season for turning leaves runs from late October through early November in Delaware, giving plenty of time to explore some of traveler's favorite scenic drives:
The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway : Embark on a spectacular journey through the hilly back roads of northern Delaware as you wind your way past grand mansions and stately museums. Start in the heart of downtown Wilmington at Rodney Square, and you’ll soon find yourself passing the gorgeous landscapes of Nemours Estate, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library and Hagley Museum & Library. You’ll also ride through Brandywine Creek State Park, where long stone walls lead to picture-perfect trees turning to red, orange and yellow.
The Delaware Bayshore Byway : Experience a unique coastal drive that delivers soothing views of the lowlands and wetlands that make Delaware a world-class destination for bird-watchers. The two-lane road meanders along the Delaware River and Bay Estuary, passing through the largest preserved coastal marshland on the East Coast. Look up, and you’ll see all the leaves changing colors and millions of migrating birds passing through to rest and reinvigorate on their journey south for winter. Along the way, embrace the state’s history in spots like Colonial Old New Castle and Fort Delaware State Park.
The Nanticoke Heritage Byway : Take a trip to see the beautiful rural landscapes of western Sussex County and how they have a way of soothing the soul and inspiring gentle thoughts as new vistas of farm lands and tidy tree lines emerge from around each bend in the road. Along the way, quaint towns with rich histories invite exploration. The natural beauty and easygoing terrain beckon to travelers to Trap Pond State Park, where the bald cypress trees’ changing colors is a sight to behold.
Coastal Highway Drive : Starting just north of Lewes, travelers can wind their way south along Delaware’s Atlantic Coast on Del. 1; meanwhile, they can enjoy the sea breeze through open windows as they explore the quaint nautical charms of Lewes and do some tax-free shopping in Rehoboth Beach. Then it’s time to fully immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the ocean and bay, separated by just a thin stretch of land that carries the highway south. Discover the beaches in the fall and uncover the shifting scene from season to season. Along the way, there’s plenty to explore in the seaside towns of Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island, and natural escapes abound in the major state parks: Cape Henlopen, Delaware Seashore and Fenwick Island.
Wilmington & Western Railroad : While not technically a “drive,” a ride on the Wilmington & Western Railroad has all the appeal of one. A restored, vintage steam train pulls travelers on a relaxing and delightful journey through the changing shades and hues of the wooded hills of the Red Clay Valley with a pause for a picnic lunch. Keep an eye out for its special weekend fall excursions, featuring Halloween hay rides.
