Delaware’s Winter Bucket List
Grab your coat, gloves and scarves because here is a round-up of the top 15 things to do in Delaware this winter season.
1. Stroll Riverfront Wilmington
Restaurants, shopping and miles of walking trail make Riverfront Wilmington a must visit during any time of the year. Take a stroll alongside the Christina River and stop inside the local businesses nearby.
2. Step Outside with Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Explore the many trails around Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in search of native birds from the warm comfort of your car. That’s right, Bombay Hook offers a 12-mile wildlife drive, showcasing the largest remaining expanses of tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic region and all of its inhabitants.
3. Catch a Sports Game
Catch the Harlem Globetrotters, presented by Jersey Mike's Subs, on Feb. 20 at the Chase Fieldhouse. See amazing basketball spins, slams, and dunks as players face-off to see who can pull off astonishing tricks. The Professional Bowling Association will also be hosting a bowling tournament with cash prizes at Mid-County Lanes and Entertainment Center at the end of January.
4. Take a class and learn something new
The winter months are the perfect time to learn something new or pick up a hobby. The Yarn Maven will help you find the right supplies while hooking you up with all of the tips and tricks to tackle your first project. Or, visit the Artpothecary for artist-led classes and workshops. The Board and Brush Creative Studio also offers workshops and classes for friends!
5. Experience the beauty of Northern Delaware's mansions
During the colder months, the grounds of Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library become a winter playground with outdoor trails to walk and take in the invigorating air of winter. Walk the gardens of Nemours Estate and appreciate sculptures decorated with snow, or visit Hagley museum and Library for wintry scenes and landscapes.
6. Take in Scenery at Killens Pond State Park
Take a stroll through the 2.6 miles of pondside trail in Killens Pond State Park. This serene spot features a 66-acre pond and, for a truly scenic view, you can stand on the Pondside Bridge to take in the stillness of the season.
7. Raise your glass and your spirits
A steaming cup of coffee isn’t the only way to warm up during the colder months. At Painted Stave Distilling in Smyrna, you can enjoy one of their seasonally inspired cocktails while warming up next to the firepit in their courtyard. Wood-fired dishes and big beers will keep you warm when you’re dining outside at Dogfish Head’s downtown Rehoboth location, Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats. If you find yourself drawn to the city glow of Wilmington in the winter, look no further than Wilmington Brew Works.
8.Take a Walk at Brandywine Creek State Park
Once a dairy farm, Brandywine Creek State Park is now home to three nature preserves made into one grand outdoor experience. The park boasts over 1,100 acres and miles of hiking trails, and, in the winter, it’s one of the best places to sled in Delaware.
9. Enjoy Tax-free shopping in unique boutiques
With tax-free shopping year-round and boutiques you won’t find anywhere else, shopping doesn’t stop in Delaware once the holidays are over. Boutique shopping in Rehoboth Beach can’t be beat. Walk the Avenue to take in the window displays and get lost down the small shop-filled alleyways. In Northern Delaware, you’ll find upscale shopping that would feel at home in any major metropolis. What’s old is new again. If you’re looking for that vintage style with throw-back looks and Sanuk sandals for the whole family, BLUvintage in Dover or the Tanger Seaside Outlets in Rehoboth has you covered.
10. Explore Historic New Castle 
When you step onto the streets of Historic New Castle, you’ll feel right at home in a Dickinson novel complete with cobblestone streets and stately townhomes. Stroll through and shop in the quaint colonial charm of New Castle before checking out the history of the First State National Historical Park.
11. Warm up with these coffee shops
Nothing beats the pairing of a warm beverage and the crisp cold winter air. With several Brew Ha Ha locations, you can grab a delicious, handcrafted coffee to warm your hands as you walk downtown Wilmington. If you’re in Dover be sure to stop at House of Coffi. 3BB Cafe, located in Bethany Beach, is all about savoring delicious coffee while enjoying your time on the coast.
12. Step Back in Time with the Delaware History Trail
Delaware is full of history, and winter is a great time to discover, or rediscover, all of its historical treasures. Historic Odessa brings the 18th-century to life with historic homes that become festively decorated. In Dover, stop by the Air Mobility Command Museum, home to more than 30 historic, heavy-lifting US military aircraft. For breathtaking views of the coast and our nation’s history, visit Cape Henlopen State Park, home to Fort Miles. Originally constructed as one of our nation’s most important East Coast defensive fortifications, Fort Miles and its observation towers now stand as reminders of the nation’s WWII homefront history.
13. Stay Somewhere Cozy
Winter also offers a chance for cozy stays. For those looking to get away and enjoy the tranquility of a quiet and quaint destination, Inn at Montchanin Village and Spa provides just that. Nestled in Wilmington’s Greenville neighborhood, it’s the perfect blend of luxury and privacy perfect for a winter getaway. If you’re on the trail of Delaware’s history, Causey Mansion Bed and Breakfast in historic Milford is a must stay. This Georgian-style inn has hosted many families throughout the years, some influential to both Milford and Delaware’s history. The inn is also located right in a location perfect for taking a stroll along the Mispillion Riverwalk.
14. Find Fun at A Bigger, Better Lefty’s
The laser tag arena at Lefty’s Alley & Eats has been replaced with fun new ways to get your game on – there's digital axe throwing, mini-duckpin bowling alleys, a Golf Swing Suite and a “silent disco.” The new space also has a full bar and room for live entertainment and dancing.
15. Take a Seal Watching Tour
In the colder months, Delaware is visited by seals! Cape Water Tours and Taxi offers Seal Watching Tours. Take a tour for a chance to see one of the seals. Be sure to bundle up for the cold, and bring your camera!
