21 Best & Fun Places To Visit In Delaware

Famous for its incredible beaches, its history-rich attractions, and becoming the first state of the union, Delaware is a great little state to visit.

Nicknamed the Chemical Capital of the World, the state’s capital is Dover, although the most popular city in DE is undoubtedly Wilmington.

Another fun fact about DE is that it’s the only state in the country without a state sales tax, so retail therapy in Delaware is a no-brainer.

With so many great places to visit in Delaware, it’s no wonder that this small east coast state thrives on tourism.

If you’re planning a trip to DE, there are many things to do that are suitable for all ages and interests.

From beach vacations to nature excursions and an awesome art scene to incredible eateries, Delaware is a prime spot for a family vacation.

Check out some of the many awesome places to go and things to do when you’re in Delaware.

1. Rehoboth Beach

If you’re looking for some of the best things to do when visiting Delaware, be sure to visit beautiful Rehoboth Beach.

This small but mighty community comprises just one square mile., however, there is so much enjoyment to be squeezed out of Rehoboth Beach.

Besides the picturesque beach, worthy of a trip to Rehoboth in and of itself, the beach’s quaint boardwalk provides visitors with many lovely attractions.

For starters, the boardwalk is home to many welcoming hotels that will set the scene for a perfect vacation.

Additionally, the boardwalk is lined with wonderful restaurants, quaint shops, amusements, and more.

The boardwalk’s public bandstand presents al fresco concerts all summer long and the local museum shares Rehoboth’s local history.

A great little east coast summer town, Rehoboth Beach is like something off a postage stamp.

One of Delaware’s most popular beaches, Rehoboth Beach is a must-see.

Address: Delaware, United States

2. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

This incredible wildlife refuge sits on nearly 16,000 acres on the eastern seaboard of Delaware’s Kent County.

Established in 1937 as a refuge for migratory birds, the refuge is an incredible sight to see.

Positioned adjacent to Delaware Bay, the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a perfect spot for outdoor lovers.

During a visit to the refuge, visitors can enjoy more than 5 miles of hiking trails, an informational visitor center, and amazing wildlife scenery.

Open 7 days a week, any time is a good time to visit the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.

Whether you enjoy outdoor recreation, magnificent photography, or exploring wildlife habitats, the refuge has it all.

With informational pamphlets available at the visitor center, you can enjoy self-guided exploration while still learning about all the sights.

Besides self-guided exploration, other fun activities include hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Address: 2591 Whitehall Neck Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977, United States

3. Delaware Seashore State Park

This majestic state park sits along 6 miles of ocean and 20 miles of bay shore, specifically the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth and Indian River Bays.

Open daily from sun-up to sundown, the park is the perfect place to spend hours of fun on the beach.

Pack your beach buggy and don your favorite swimsuit, and plan to enjoy some of the most incredible views Delaware has to offer.

In addition to classic beach activities such as swimming and sunbathing, the park is also a hub for other activities and watersports.

Patrolled by lifeguards all summer long, the park is a great place to surf, kayak, and snorkel.

Additionally, the park provides camping accommodations, public bathhouses, fishing, clamming, and crabbing.

Another park feature is the Indian River Bay Life-Saving Museum where you can explore interesting displays of maritime exhibits as well as historic reenactments.

One of the most beautiful outdoor attractions in Delaware, the Delaware Seashore State Park is a must-do.

Address: 25039 Coastal Hwy, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, United States

4. Dewey Beach

Another of Delaware’s many wonderful beaches, Dewey Beach is one of the top things to do in Delaware.

Dewey Beach is a small seaside town that boasts sunshiny days and bright, colorful nights.

The beach is your typical quiet landscape of warm, powder sand.

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, Dewey is a perfect spot for a getaway with friends: think bachelor parties and girls’ weekends.

Although Dewey Beach is also a lovely place to spend time with family, the town is actually known as one of the best for nightlife in Delaware.

After spending the day frolicking on the town’s one-mile stretch of beach, the Jolley Trolley can pick you up and usher you to dinner, the neighboring boardwalk, and nightclubs.

From outdoor, waterside bars to downhome taverns, Dewey Beach has the best places to belly up for cocktails.

If you’re looking for a great vacation destination in Delaware, you should consider Dewey Beach.

Address: Delaware, United States

5. Fort Delaware State Park

Another one of the best places to visit in Delaware is Fort Delaware State Park.

Located on Pea Patch Island, Fort Delaware State Park is home to Fort Delaware which was built in the mid-1800s.

Constructed to protect surrounding states from attack during World War I, it was once considered the most advanced fort in the world.

However, the fort was abandoned in 1944 and was later deeded to the state of Delaware.

In 1951, the once military fort became a state park, welcoming the public to explore its historic grounds.

Today, Fort Delaware State Park employs costumed reenactors who bring the history of the fort to life through entertaining, educational, and interactive exhibits.

During a visit to Fort Delaware State Park, you’ll be treated to incredible adventure stories, live cannon fires, and even paranormal tours.

A beautiful and exciting piece of local history, Fort Delaware State Park should top your list of places to visit in Delaware.

Address: 45 Clinton St, Delaware City, DE 19706, United States

6. New Castle

This vibrant Delaware city sits adjacent to the gorgeous Delaware River.

Known for its picturesque historic district, quaint libraries, and intriguing museums, there’s so much to do during a visit to New Castle.

With so many interesting places near the heart of New Castle, you’ll never be at a loss for what to do when visiting this town.

From awesome spaces for outdoor recreation to super fun playgrounds, New Castle is a great destination for families with children.

Loaded with colonial charm, so many things in New Castle are set against a cheery historic backdrop.

A cool place to grab a bite is Jessop’s Tavern & Colonial Restaurant which is housed in a building built in the 1700s.

If you’re interested in getting outdoors when you’re in town, be sure to visit Battery Park; here, you can explore more than 25 acres of natural beauty along the scenic Delaware River.

Other places to see in New Castle include The Old Dutch House & Gardens, The Delaware Art Museum, and First State National Park.

Address: Delaware, United States

7. Georgetown

One of the most famous places to visit in the state of Delaware is Georgetown, home to many of the state’s historic sites.

Home to the historic Sussex County Courthouse and The Circle which is Georgetown’s small financial district, there’s tons of history to be had in this small Delaware town.

Georgetown is also situated near Rehoboth Beach, one of the state’s most beautiful family beaches.

The stunning beaches and history-rich attractions are nicely juxtaposed with many modern amenities and places to go.

Some of the fun places to see in Georgetown include the Treasures of the Sea Exhibit, Jungle Jim’s Adventure World, and the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum.

In terms of outdoor attractions near Georgetown, a few must-sees include Cape Henlopen State Park, Holts Landing State Park, and Junction & Breakwater Trail which is perfect for an afternoon hike.

A few museums, many great restaurants, and astounding nature centers are just a few more reasons to visit Georgetown, Delaware.

Address: Delaware, United States

8. Brandywine Creek State Park

Situated just three miles from Wilmington, Delaware, the Brandywine Creek State Park opened in 1965.

Comprising more than 900 acres, the park is one of the best spots in Delaware in terms of outdoor recreation.

Packed with 14 miles of picturesque hiking trails, the park is the perfect place for exploring.

With the peaceful creek running through the park, the sounds and sights of nature are overflowing at Brandywine Creek State Park.

Besides hiking and exploring, Brandywine Creek is a lovely place to spend the day fishing; the creek is packed with bluegill, crappie, and smallmouth bass.

In addition to fishing, other fun activities to do on the creek include kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and tubing.

The park’s open meadows are a lovely place to fly a kite or pass a frisbee as well as enjoy a picnic.

During the winter months, Brandywine Creek State Park is a hotspot for sledding and cross-country skiing.

Address: 41 Adams Dam Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807, United States

9. Wilmington

While many of the tourist towns in Delaware are known for their beaches, historic sites, and outdoor recreation, Wilmington is altogether different.

One of the most inviting vacation spots for couples, Wilmington is the state’s urban hub.

With the state’s most bustling downtown, there’s so much to do in Wilmington.

Every city block is loaded with world-class restaurants, museums, theaters, shopping galore, and so much more.

Some of the more popular spots to hit in terms of historic sites while you’re in Wilmington include Nemours Estate, Hagley Museum & Library, and the Grand Opera House.

Highly recommended eateries include Pinpoint Restaurant, The Fork ‘N’ Cork, and RUMCOW.

Just like many of its neighboring towns, Wilmington is also home to many outdoor attractions including the Wilmington Riverwalk and Brandywine Creek State Park.

If you’re in search of Delaware’s best shopping, not only does Brandywine Creek State Park have awesome boutiques and shops, but, like all of DE, it’s tax-free shopping.

Address: Delaware, United States

10. Cape Henlopen State Park

Situated on more than 5,000 acres, Cape Henlopen State Park is an incredible attraction located in Delaware’s Sussex County.

Located adjacent to the mouth of Delaware Bay, the park comprises more than 6 miles of gorgeous coastline.

One of the coolest aspects of the park’s waterfront proximity is that it’s positioned at the exact point where the bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The park’s coastal location makes it a popular spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and an array of other watersports.

In addition to all the watersports to do at Cape Henlopen State Park, it’s also a hotspot for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation.

The park is home to a seaside nature center, the Fort Miles Museum and Historic Area, and the Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve.

The park also participates in a fun borrow-a-bike program.

To say there’s a lot to do at Cape Henlopen State Park is an understatement, so be sure to plan a day or two in the park when you’re in Delaware.

Address: 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958, United States

11. Trap Pond State Park

This lovely state park is located in Laurel, DE.

Although Trap Pond was used as a logging pond in the 1700s, it was established as a park in the early 1950s.

Today, the park is a much-loved attraction to locals and tourists alike.

Known for its biodiversity, the park is a fun place to hike and explore.

Trap Pond State Park is best known for all the adventures to be had on the pond.

For starters, the pond is an excellent place to fish for an array of warm-water species.

Besides fishing, Trap Pond has miles of canoeing and kayaking trails as well as watersports equipment available for rental.

Trap Pond State Park provides guided tours of the park’s swamps, historic cemeteries, and an 1800s church.

Trap Pond State Park is also a popular spot for birding, wildlife observation, and camping.

The park is home to miles worth of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails too.

Address: 33587 Baldcypress Lane, Laurel, DE 19956, United States

12. Delaware Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for fun places to go with kids, look no further.

The Delaware Children’s Museum is a riverfront attraction that’s enjoyable for children of all ages.

Loaded with interactive exhibits, exciting activities, and tons of learning opportunities, the Delaware Children’s Museum is a no-brainer.

A wonderful place for children to put their imaginations to use, the museum has awesome, hands-on exhibits such as a tree pavilion, stem lab, and an art studio.

The Delaware Children’s Museum is also home to a cool structures exhibit that features a climbing wall and an engineering lab.

There are also tons of role-playing scenes including a stratosphere exhibit and a make-believe bank.

Best of all, admission to the museum is free for active military service people and their families as well as teachers and their families.

A perfect spot for a day with your little ones, the Delaware Children’s Museum is a must-do.

Address: 550 Justison St, Wilmington, DE 19801, United States

13. Delaware Art Museum

The Delaware Art Museum is an all-encompassing experience that features incredible art exhibits adjacent to a 9-acre sculpture garden.

One of the coolest places to visit in Delaware, this museum is a must-see.

Within the museum, you can tour a famous collection of British Pre-Raphaelite artwork, art by Wilmington native Harold Pyle, and awe-inspiring urban landscapes.

Established in 1912, the museum primarily features American and British exhibits from the 18th to the mid-20th century.

Outside the museum walls is an awesome sculpture garden which was added to the museum site in 2005.

In addition to the 9 awesome and larger-than-life sculptures, the garden also features an incredible labyrinth that’s super fun to interact with.

Between the museum and sculpture garden, Delaware Art Museum unveils 10 special exhibits each year; art exhibit themes run the gamut from folk art to illustrations and beyond.

Address: 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806, United States

14. Nemours Estate

This vast estate is one of the most famous places to check out in DE.

Situated on a whopping 200 acres, the Nemours Estate is a country estate that was built in 1910.

Constructed in the French neoclassical style, the Estate is better described as a chateau.

The Estate is a 47,000-square-foot monstrosity that has more than 105 rooms on four full floors.

If you’re planning a visit to the Nemours Estate, you can expect to enjoy a self-guided tour of the mansion as well as the surrounding gardens.

Not only are tours of the estate child-friendly, but they’re also ADA-accessible.

The estate has many modern amenities such as diaper changing tables, and picnic lunches upon the mansion grounds are encouraged.

Although the magnificent mansion and grounds may seem intimidating because of their splendor, it’s actually quite relaxed and welcoming.

The Nemours Estate is a fun place for visitors of all ages to explore and discover.

Address: 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803, United States

15. Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library

One of the most scenic places in the US, the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is a must-do during your visit to DE.

This American estate is situated in the town for which it’s named: Winterthur.

Home to one of the most opulent collections of Americana artifacts, this attraction is perfect for history buffs.

A visit to Winterthur, as its name suggests, comprises multiple tours and sights.

The mansion tour is a 75-minute experience that navigates the many rooms, floors, and exhibits of the mansion.

Once you’ve enjoyed your mansion/museum tour, the Winterthur Garden is a beautiful sight to see.

Each new season at Winterthur brings new sights, blooms, and masterpieces to see.

The gardens feature lush, seasonal installations in picturesque, vibrant colors.

Just as scenic as the garden itself is its majestic backdrop; the gardens are surrounded by more than 1,000 acres of green meadows, shimmering waterways, rolling hills, and farmland.

Address: 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735, United States

16. Dover Motor Speedway

One of the country’s most famous speedways, the Dover Motor Speedway is one of the coolest places to go when you’re in DE.

Hosting at least one NASCAR event per year, it’s no wonder this track attracts visitors from far and wide.

Besides NASCAR events, the Dover Motor Speedway has consistently hosted both national and international events since 1969.

If you’re planning an upcoming visit to DE, be sure to check out the Dover Motor Speedway’s epic calendar of events.

One of the coolest things about the Dover Motor Speedway is that camping accommodations are available on the property.

Camping lots surround the racetrack and are within walking distance of Dover race events.

An immersive race experience is unparalleled when you add camping to your trip to Dover Motor Speedway.

Besides the incredible races, the Speedway hosts awesome concerts, driver autograph sessions, fabulous concessions, and beyond.

One of the coolest ways to spend a day or two in DE is with a visit to the Dover Motor Speedway.

Address: 1131 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States

17. Air Mobility Command Museum

This military aviation museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Delaware.

Situated on the Dover Air Force Base, the museum is open to the public to share the history of air transportation, military air service, and air mobility command.

Open to the public Thursday through Sunday, a visit to the Air Mobility Command Museum is a great idea for this weekend.

One of the coolest things about the Air Mobility Command Museum is that it’s home to the country’s most technologically-advanced aerial ports.

Within the museum, you’ll explore old commercial and military airplanes; it’s incredible to navigate these vessels from a new vantage point.

Besides the decommissioned airplanes, the museum is also home to military memorabilia, historical air-related documents, historical apparel, and so much more.

The museum has exhibits on the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Air Force control towers, and other unique displays.

Address: 1301 Heritage Rd, Dover AFB, DE 19902, United States

18. Delaware Rock Gym

If you’re looking for a great way to spend a rainy day in DE, check out the Delaware Rock Gym.

This indoor rock climbing facility is an epic place to have some fun while getting a good workout.

Whether you’re new to climbing or a seasoned veteran, Delaware Rock Gym caters to all skill levels.

Featuring more than 11,000 square feet of climbing walls, the gym has a diverse variety of structures to enjoy.

Whether visiting with children or giving it a go for the first time yourself, the gym has an awesome 2-hour beginner class to help you get your feet wet.

In addition to the awesome climbing walls, the gym also has 54 top ropes, helpful lead lines, an area dedicated to boulder climbing, and tons of natural light.

Open 7 days a week, loaded with convenient amenities, and always immaculately clean, Delaware Rock Gym is a must-do when you’re in town.

Address: 520 Carson Dr, Bear, DE 19701, United States

19. Zelky’s Beach Arcade

Another great rainy-day haunt is Zelky’s Beach Arcade.

One of the top places to visit in Delaware, Zelky’s Beach Arcade is located on Rehoboth Beach.

A good time for visitors of all ages, the arcade has 3 convenient locations on the boardwalk.

The arcades are loaded with an incredible variety of games that range in type, age level, and era.

So whether you’re looking to play the games of your youth while your children play the latest and greatest, Zelky’s Beach Arcade has it all.

Spend your days on the beach, and cool off in the arcade.

During your visit to Rehoboth, you can come back day after day to earn your share of prize-worthy points.

At the end of your stay, you can cash your arcade points in for the boardwalk’s best prizes.

Open all year long, anytime is a good time to visit Zelky’s Beach Arcade.

Address: 101 S Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, United States

20. Vince’s Sports Center

Situated in Newark, DE, Vince’s Sports Center is one of the most enjoyable places to go.

This 18-acre family-fun center has it all; from sports to amusements and everything in between, Vince’s Sports Center is a great way to let off some steam.

In terms of sports activities, Vince’s has an epic 17-hole miniature golf course as well as an enormous indoor batting facility; 8 cages pitch both baseball and softball.

In addition to the sports attractions, Vince’s is also home to a giant arcade with tons of video games and prizes.

Another popular feature at Vince’s Sports Center is the Play Park; it’s a giant indoor playground with climbing structures, tube slides, monkey bars, and beyond.

The center has a great snack stand that serves treats such as pizza, hot dogs, fountain drinks, and ice cream.

Vince’s Sports Center is a great way to spend a few hours, day or night, in Newark.

Address: 14 Gender Rd, Newark, DE 19713, United States

21. Hagley Museum

Positioned adjacent to the banks of Brandywine Creek, the Hagley Museum sits on 235 acres in Wilmington.

Famous because the museum resides at the former site of E.I. DuPont’s gunpowder works, the museum is rich in history and surrounded by picturesque scenery.

The museum features incredible exhibits depicting industrialization in early America; from restored mills to the DuPont family’s ancestral home, there are many sights to see at the Hagley Museum.

The museum famously houses the Hagley Library which is home to a vast collection of business, technology, and telecommunications documents as they pertain to American history.

One of Hagley Museum’s newest installations is called the “Nation of Inventors” which is a must-see.

After visiting all the incredible sights the museum has to offer, be sure to check out the gift shop where you can procure some awesome keepsakes.

Address: 200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Delaware

Beautiful, historic, and fun places to visit in Delaware are not hard to come by.

With miles of new discoveries, white sand beaches, loads of history to ingest, and the ability to visit so many places during one stay, planning a trip to Delaware is highly recommended.

Best of all, much of what you’ll do in Delaware will be set against the scenic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and some of the country’s cleanest beaches.

So don’t hesitate to pack your bags and set your itinerary for a trip to DE; you won’t be disappointed.