If you’re looking for fun things to do in the United States’ first state, Delaware, you’re in luck! Whether you’re a history buff, avid lover of the outdoors, or family-oriented vacationer looking for a kids-friendly getaway, there are truly unique activities for everyone. Delaware‘s pristine beaches, world-class dining, history museums, guided tours, state parks, and tourist attractions make it one of the Eastern Seaboard’s best-kept secrets.
Here are some of the best Delaware attractions for when you make your way to the area.
1. Enjoy the Gorgeous Atlantic coast.
Situated along the stunning Atlantic Ocean, the region offers unparalleled access to beautiful beaches and plenty of fun places to explore including:
- The tranquil Bethany Beach, where you can kick back and drink in the sun with a bit of quiet family fun
- The charming Rehoboth Beach area, where you can find something for everyone including unique boutiques, galleries filled with local artists’ works, decorative arts for sale in local shops, and trendy eateries with coastal-inspired food to pique your interest
- Dewey Beach for an atmosphere filled with excitement, fun places to grab a drink, or a night of live beachside music
Travelers from all over love the area’s limitless ocean views as well as Delaware Bay, plus the opportunity to see dolphins and breathtaking sunrises.
2. Visit unique historical sites.
As one of the oldest states in the union and the first to ratify the Constitution of the United States, Delaware boasts a surprisingly eventful history. Take a tour of Delaware’s historic sites, including:
- The Cannonball House, which houses The Lewes Historical Society’s Maritime Museum, where you can still see scars from British cannonballs fired during the 1813 Bombardment of Lewes.
- Visit Wilmington, DE, and check out the visitor center.
- Take in the colorful history at Seaford’s Ross Mansion and historic Georgetown.
- Visit the Fort Miles Historical Area, which features an intact WWII fort and a live swing band.
- Take the Cape May-Lewes ferry for beautiful water views, plus check out old WWII lookout towers in Cape May.
There are plenty of other educational items to take in as well, including tours at the Hagley Museum and Library, Dover Air Force Base, Delaware Art Museum, Grand Opera House, the Delaware Contemporary Museum, Air Mobility Command Museum, Brandywine Zoo, Delaware Agricultural Museum, Johnson Victrola Museum, Nemours Mansion, and First State Heritage Park.
3. Experience the great outdoors.
Enjoy an invigorating hike on walking trails that wind through an old military base and coastal sand dunes in Cape Henlopen State Park, take a refreshing forest path through Redden State Forest, or visit Bellevue State Park, Delaware Seashore State Park, Brandywine Creek State Park, or any of the local gardens (such as the Winterthur Museum Garden) to get some fresh air and great views. If you are a wildlife lover, be sure to visit the burgeoning wildlife of the restored freshwater marsh at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
4. Catch some local seasonal activities
No matter the season, there is always a festival or event happening! Check out some local calendars to learn more about the events available all year round, including:
- Bridgeville Apple-Scrapple Festival (see website)
- Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest (see event site)
- Mt. Cuba Wildflower Celebration (see website)
- Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival (see event site)
- Yuletide at the Winterthur Museum (see website)
With so many from which to choose, visitors are sure to find plenty to pique their interest and keep their vacation entertainment calendar full.Â
Luxurious Comfort at the Canalside Inn
If you’re headed to the Atlantic coast, the Canalside Inn is your perfect destination for seaside fun just moments from the historic charm and sophisticated establishments of Rehoboth Beach. Contact us today to speak with our friendly staff and book your next vacation, or to get more tips for entertainment and fun things to do in Delaware!
