Attractions and Places To See in Delaware - Top 20

Delaware offers several excellent cycling trails. The Mike Castle Trail is a 12.4-mile asphalt path connecting Delaware City Marina to the Ben Cardin C&D Canal Recreational Trail, known for its river views. Another popular option is the Jack A. Markell Trail (JAM Trail). For more cycling options, you can explore various road cycling routes in Delaware, including the C&D Canal Trail and the Georgetown-Lewes Trail Loop.

Delaware boasts diverse natural features. Gordon's Pond, located within Cape Henlopen State Park, is a small reservoir popular with birdwatchers. You can also visit the Dunes lookout for magnificent views of the dunes and their unique flora. Another interesting spot is Dunes in the pine forest, where sand patches combine with forest landscapes. Trap Pond State Park is home to the northernmost grove of bald cypress trees, offering opportunities for kayaking, while Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a nationally recognized Globally Important Bird Area.

Yes, Delaware has many trails suitable for hiking and running. Cape Henlopen State Park offers bike paths and hiking trails like the Gordons Pond Trail. Brandywine Creek State Park is known for its picturesque landscapes and hiking trails. For dedicated running routes, you can find options like the Gordons Pond Trail and the Prickly Pear Trail, which are part of the running trails guide for Delaware.

Delaware, the 'First State,' is rich in history. You can visit Old New Castle, a colonial capital with cobblestone streets and sites like the New Castle Court House Museum. The First State Heritage Park in Dover connects several historic sites, including The Old State House. Other notable historical attractions include Hagley Museum and Library, Fort Christina, Fort Miles at Cape Henlopen State Park, and the John Dickinson Plantation.

Many attractions in Delaware are suitable for families. State parks like Cape Henlopen State Park and Brandywine Creek State Park offer trails and nature centers. The Mike Castle Trail and Jack A. Markell Trail are mixed-use paths great for family biking or walking. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, with Funland amusement park, is another popular family destination. Many highlights, such as Gordon's Pond and various beach access points, are also marked as family-friendly.

For diverse outdoor activities, consider Cape Henlopen State Park, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering beaches, forests, bike paths, and hiking trails. Brandywine Creek State Park is excellent for hiking and scenic views, including waterfalls. Trap Pond State Park provides unique kayaking opportunities among bald cypress trees. These parks offer a range of activities from water sports to trail exploration.

Delaware has a vibrant cultural scene. The Hagley Museum and Library showcases early American industry and the du Pont family legacy. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library features American decorative arts and extensive gardens. Other notable institutions include the Delaware Art Museum, the Delaware History Museum, the Johnson Victrola Museum, and the Zwaanendael Museum, which highlights Dutch heritage.

Delaware's Atlantic coastline is famous for its large sandy beaches. Popular choices include Rehoboth Beach, known for its boardwalk and entertainment, as well as Lewes Beach, Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach, and Fenwick Island. These beaches offer various water activities and opportunities for relaxation.

Yes, Delaware offers several accessible options. The St. Georges Trailhead – Michael Castle Trail and the Mike Castle Trail itself are marked as wheelchair accessible. The Charles W. Cullen Bridge also has a pedestrian walk physically separated from traffic lanes, making it accessible. Additionally, the Dunes lookout is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing scenic views.

The best time to visit Delaware for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking, with less humidity than summer. Summer is ideal for enjoying the beaches and water activities along the Atlantic coastline. While some trails may have seasonal considerations, many state parks and trails are accessible year-round, with winter offering opportunities for cross-country skiing on suitable paths like the Mike Castle Trail.

Delaware has several trails suitable for mountain biking. You can explore various MTB trails in Delaware, including routes like the '10 Mile Loop' and the 'Lenape Trail – Whitely Farms loop'. These trails offer different difficulty levels, catering to both easy rides and more moderate challenges.

Yes, the Delaware Agricultural Museum in Dover explores the state's farming heritage. It features historical artifacts and a reconstructed 19th-century farming village, providing insight into the agricultural past of the region.

The Wilmington Riverfront is a popular urban attraction, offering a promenade with boardwalks and beer gardens. Milford also has a charming riverfront that provides a taste of small-town America. These areas are great for strolls, dining, and enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.