Introduction
Welcome to Delaware, the First State, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. This 7-day itinerary will guide you through Delaware’s most captivating destinations, from its charming small towns and historic landmarks to its scenic beaches and vibrant cities. Prepare to discover the hidden gems and popular attractions that make Delaware a delightful travel destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Wilmington
Morning: Arrival and Riverfront Exploration
- Arrival: Fly into Philadelphia International Airport and drive to Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city.
- Riverfront: Begin your journey with a visit to Wilmington’s Riverfront, where you can stroll along the scenic Riverwalk, visit local shops, and enjoy the waterfront views.
Afternoon: Brandywine Zoo and Delaware Art Museum
- Brandywine Zoo: Spend the afternoon at Brandywine Zoo, home to a variety of animals in a beautiful park setting.
- Delaware Art Museum: Explore the Delaware Art Museum, which features a stunning collection of American art and illustrations, including works by the Pre-Raphaelites.
Evening: Dinner in Downtown Wilmington
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Wilmington’s downtown restaurants, offering a range of cuisines from farm-to-table fare to international dishes.
Day 2: Historic New Castle and Hagley Museum
Morning: Visit Historic New Castle
- Historic New Castle: Travel to Historic New Castle, a charming town with cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings. Visit the Old New Castle Courthouse and Amstel House.
- Battery Park: Take a walk in Battery Park along the Delaware River for scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Afternoon: Hagley Museum and Library
- Hagley Museum: Spend the afternoon exploring the Hagley Museum and Library, the site of the original DuPont gunpowder mills. Discover the industrial history and beautiful gardens along the Brandywine River.
Evening: Return to Wilmington
- Dinner: Head back to Wilmington for dinner at a local bistro or café, enjoying the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Day 3: Delaware Beaches – Rehoboth and Lewes
Morning: Drive to Rehoboth Beach
- Scenic Drive: Drive to Rehoboth Beach, known for its boardwalk, shops, and beautiful coastline.
- Beach Time: Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, swimming, or strolling along the boardwalk.
Afternoon: Explore Lewes
- Lunch in Rehoboth: Enjoy lunch at one of Rehoboth Beach’s popular restaurants, featuring fresh seafood and coastal cuisine.
- Lewes: Drive to the historic town of Lewes. Visit the Zwaanendael Museum, dedicated to Delaware’s Dutch heritage, and explore Cape Henlopen State Park.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner in Lewes
- Sunset: Watch the sunset over the Delaware Bay from Lewes Beach.
- Dinner: Dine in Lewes at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local seafood specialties.
Day 4: Outdoor Adventures in Delaware Seashore State Park
Morning: Delaware Seashore State Park
- State Park: Spend the day at Delaware Seashore State Park, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
- Indian River Inlet: Visit the Indian River Inlet and take in the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and inland bays.
Afternoon: Water Sports and Beach Activities
- Water Sports: Try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing.
- Beach Picnic: Have a picnic on the beach, soaking up the sun and the ocean breeze.
Evening: Campfire and Stargazing
- Campfire: End your day with a campfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.
- Stargazing: Enjoy stargazing under the clear night sky, far from city lights.
Day 5: Dover – The Heart of Delaware
Morning: Explore Dover
- Dover: Drive to Dover, the capital city of Delaware.
- First State Heritage Park: Visit First State Heritage Park, a collection of historic sites and museums. Tour the Old State House and Johnson Victrola Museum.
Afternoon: Air Mobility Command Museum and Dover International Speedway
- Air Mobility Command Museum: Explore the Air Mobility Command Museum, showcasing military aircraft and aviation history.
- Dover International Speedway: Visit the Dover International Speedway, known as the “Monster Mile,” for a tour of the racetrack and facilities.
Evening: Dinner in Dover
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Dover, experiencing the city’s culinary delights.
Day 6: Nature and Relaxation in Southern Delaware
Morning: Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
- Wildlife Refuge: Visit Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching, hiking, and photography in a serene natural setting.
- Nature Trails: Explore the various nature trails, taking in the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
Afternoon: Relaxation and Spa
- Spa: Treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon at a local spa, enjoying massages and wellness treatments.
- Countryside Drive: Take a scenic drive through Southern Delaware’s picturesque countryside, passing by farms and small towns.
Evening: Quiet Dinner
- Dinner: Have a quiet dinner at a cozy restaurant, reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Day 7: Wilmington and Brandywine Valley
Morning: Longwood Gardens
- Longwood Gardens: Visit Longwood Gardens, just across the state line in Pennsylvania, renowned for its stunning horticultural displays and conservatory.
Afternoon: Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
- Winterthur: Return to Delaware and explore Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, a former DuPont estate with beautiful gardens and a vast collection of American decorative arts.
Evening: Final Dinner in Wilmington
- Dinner: Enjoy a final dinner in Wilmington, savoring the local flavors and reminiscing about your Delaware journey.
- Departure: Head to Philadelphia International Airport for your departure, taking with you the memories of an enriching and diverse week in Delaware.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Delaware, showcasing its rich history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re relaxing on the beaches, delving into colonial heritage, or enjoying the natural beauty of state parks, Delaware promises an unforgettable travel experience. Enjoy your adventure in the First State!