One of the best things about Delaware is how small the state is. I've heard from friends in other, larger states about how they hear that their state has a super cool museum, or one of the best state parks in the country, but they haven't gotten to see it yet, because it takes an entire day (or more!) to travel to the other side of their state.
For Delawareans, the most we'd have to travel to get to any one of the awesome attractions in our state is about 100 miles, and for the majority of the state, we can be in the biggest city (Wilmington), the Capital (Dover) and then on the beach (Rehoboth) all in the same day, and it wouldn't even be that unusual. Try doing that in any other state! Another great plus to have such a small state is that we don't travel many miles to get to our favorite places. With gas prices rising this summer, that's a huge benefit to living and playing in Delaware.
For anyone new to the state or any Delawareans looking to explore the First State, we've created the ultimate Delaware road trip of awesome must-see places in Delaware that you can see using just one tank of gas. Save the map below and get rolling!
236 Miles on the Road
1. Trolley Square, Wilmington
The Forty Acres/Trolley Square neighborhood is lively at all hours, so if you're starting here, grab breakfast or brunch at Scrumptious, or grab a burrito for lunch at El Diablo. Explore the beautiful Brandywine Park while you digest your meal, and then hop in the car and head west.
2. Winterthur Gardens
Winterthur is a beautiful DuPont estate that's worth visiting any time of year. The Americana collection is extensive, the Gardens are jaw-droppingly beautiful, and the architecture of the mansion itself will leave you in awe. This is an absolute must-see for anyone in the area.
3. White Clay Creek State Park, Newark
White Clay Creek State Park is one of my favorite places in Delaware. The trails are so well marked and maintained, and there is always a variety of wildlife to spot among the flowers and trees. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you can wander to the far end of the park and stand in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland all at once.
4. Dutch Country Farmer's Market, Middletown, DE
Plan your trip on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday so you can stop at Dutch Country Farmer's Market. Stock up on gourmet pastries for you (and for your dog!), mouthwatering BBQ meats, delicious and fresh produce... and more of those perfect baked goods.
5. Downtown Milford
Milford is one of the most interesting towns in Delaware, and it's got the best downtown area to walk around in. Check out all of the great shops and art galleries and just enjoy a beautiful day on the Mispillion River.
6. Lewes Canalfront & Fisherman's Warf
From Milford, head southeast to Lewes and walk along the canalfront and down to Fisherman's Warf. There's something for everything in Lewes. You can enjoy the quaint shops and restaurants along the canal, tour the Lightship Overfalls, relax in a canal front park, or explore Cape Henlopen State Park. You could spend a week in Lewes and not get bored!
7. Fenwick Island
The Fenwick Island lighthouse is a unique site - it's in the middle of a neighborhood, and there's no way to climb it, but it's such a significant part of Delaware history that it's worth checking out. After you see the towering light, explore the beaches and trails at Fenwick Island State Park.
8. The Circle, Georgetown
Celebrate America's history in patriotic Georgetown. The center part of town is called The Circle, and it's always bustling with activity on perfect summer days.
9. Blackbird State Forest, Smyrna
Blackbird State Forest is one of the hidden gems of Delaware. While everybody is flocking to the larger state parks, Blackbird sits quietly above Smyrna. There are miles of trails and several picnic areas throughout the forest, so it's a perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the solitude of nature.
10. Fort DuPont, Delaware City
Before you head home, set aside some time to explore Fort DuPont. This Civil War era fort is well preserved and so much fun to tour. You can really imagine what life was like in the 1800s as you walk through the grounds.
It's really incredible that you can go from a state forest to a beautiful beach in such a short drive - that's one of the reasons why we love Delaware! Are you planning a one tank of gas Delaware road trip?
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