One of the best things about living in a small state: nothing's off limits! While Wyomingites might have to plan for a long weekend to visit some of their state's sites and California is basically the size of the entire East Coast, here in Delaware everything is a one-day road trip. When you're looking for a few destinations to fill up your summer calendar, gas up the car and spend a day, sunrise to sunset, in any of these fantastic locations.
Trip 1: Relax at Winterthur & Step Back in Time at Hagley
Start your morning at Winterthur, the gorgeous garden and home of Henry Francis du Pont. Explore the fragrant, scenic grounds as you wander the woodland paths and natural landscapes of this serene estate. After you've seen the gorgeous gardens of Winterthur, enjoy lunch in Greenville. BBC Tavern is right around the corner and serves up delicious burgers, salads and nachos. Your next destination is just up the road, so follow signs for the Hagley Museum. Here, you'll find the first DuPont home in America, and the preserved remnants of the original DuPont Gunpowder Mills. This is a fascinating museum and estate where you'll find historic buildings, barns and gardens, as well as a stunning home and live demonstrations of water wheels, steam whistles and more.
Trip 2: Wander Delaware City & Tour Pea Patch Island
Enjoy breakfast or brunch in Delaware City, and then spend some time walking these historic streets. You'll find all sorts of treasures here, from landmarks to quaint boutiques. The water views are beautiful, as well! Once you've explored Delaware City, head to the ferry and ride over to Pea Patch Island. Here, you'll find historic Fort Delaware, which is typically open for tours. Fort Delaware was a confederate prison during the Civil War, and the history is absolutely fascinating.The ferry will take you right back to Delaware City once you've toured the historic Fort. If you're into all things spooky, be sure to stick around Delaware City after dark, because it's the most haunted town in Delaware.
Trip 3: Explore Historic Odessa & Dine In Charming Middletown
The historic homes of Odessa date back to the earliest days of Delaware, back when this was an important port town. The Historic Odessa Foundation hosts events here year-round.After walking through a huge part of Delaware history, head to the neighboring Middletown. Downtown Middletown is one of the most charming areas of the state. Enjoy shopping, browsing, and some of the best crab dip you'll ever try at Sully's Irish Pub. If you've got time, catch a show at the Everett Theater!
Trip 4: Enjoy Sunrise at Bombay Hook and then a Picnic on the Green
Wake up early to make it down to Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in time for sunrise. Watching the sun come up above the water while the wildlife begins to stir is an experience you won't soon forget. Driving or hiking around this preserved animal refuge is something that anyone can enjoy, thanks to boardwalks and an auto-tour that covers plenty of ground.After your morning of birdwatching and wildlife spotting, head into Dover for a picnic on The Green. This spot at the center of town is surrounded by historic buildings, so once you've refueled check out parts of the town that have been designated as locations within First State National Historical Park.a
Trip 5: Enjoy Both Lewes & Cape May Thanks To The Ferry
Historic and charming Lewes is worth spending an entire day exploring, but if you're familiar with the town, you'll love its sister city across the water, too. Spend your morning here in Delaware, and then take a 90-minute ferry ride to Cape May, New Jersey. Along the way look for dolphins and whales which make their home in the Delaware Bay. Once you're in Cape May, enjoy unparalled shopping and dining before catching your return voyage that takes you home. If you time it right, you'll get to watch a sunset out on the bay.
What's your favorite place to go on a whim in Delaware? I swear, Bombay Hook gets better every time I decide to make the drive. Tell me your favorite places in the comments below!
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