Delaware has a reputation for being a tiny, boring, empty state. Those of us who live here know better! And you know what? It's not so bad being a small state. In fact, it's sort of a bonus, because all it takes is a single day to explore some of the best that Delaware has to offer! Check out these one day Delaware road trips that you can take this weekend - or any time you've got an unexpected day off. Which one sounds the best to you?
1. Take the Auto Tour through Prime Hook & Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuges.
It will take you all day to explore both refuges, so start the day early! If you're coming from upstate, start at Bombay Hook, and if you're coming up from Slower Lower, you'll get to Prime Hook first. You can find the entrances to Bombay Hook on Route 9, just outside of Smyrna. Prime Hook is located off of Route 1, in Milton. After a few hours in your first refuge, stop for a stroll in Milford, which is a Perfect Little River Town to grab lunch and do some shopping.Prime Hook Auto Tour InformationBombay Hook Auto Tour Information
2. Drive Delaware's Bayshore Byway, along Route 9.
You'll start in New Castle, near the Green. From there, just head south. Route 9 is a winding road along Delaware's bayshore, and you'll pass near several charming towns on the way. Stop in Woodland Beach for a beautiful bay view! Grab lunch in nearby Odessa, at Cantwell's Tavern. It's just a few minutes off of your route, and it's one Timeless Delaware Restaurant Everyone Is Sure To Love.Follow our guide to Route 9 right here.
3. Drive the coast from Lewes to Fenwick Island.
If you drive straight through, it will only take you half an hour, but where's the fun in that? Start off sunrise on the point at Cape Henlopen State Park, and then head to Rehoboth Beach to dine at Egg, the town's most delicious breakfast spot. From there, stroll the beach and boardwalk before heading down to Dewey. If you're hungry, Woody's makes the best crabcakes you'll find anywhere. After Dewey, drive south to the Indian River Inlet. The bridge you'll have to cross is beautiful - but it also has a slightly terrifying history. Keep driving south - past Bethany Beach - until you reach Fenwick Island. Spend the rest of your afternoon on the beach or hiking through the state park. There are miles of trail to walk! Hopefully you've worked up an appetite, because you should be heading back up into Bethany Beach for dinner. After all, what better way to end a road trip than with a meal in Delaware's most underrated foodie town?
4. Tour Delaware's Chateau Country.
Delaware's Brandywine Valley is one of the most beautiful places on the east coast, but it's often overlooked! Take a few hours to explore every nook and cranny, from the Red Clay Creek to the hamlet of Montchanin. You'll want to dine at one of the many historic restaurants you pass - so choose from The Back Burner,
Krazy Kat's, or Buckley's Tavern. Find an itinerary right here and get on your way!
5. Get Historic in New Castle, Delaware City, and Dover.
Spend the morning exploring beautiful, historic New Castle! Dine at Jessop's Tavern if you're looking for an unforgettable Colonial meal. Then, head down to walk around Delaware City, which is the most haunted town in Delaware. If you have time, tour Fort Delaware State Park. After you're done in Delaware City, drive south to Dover. Stroll the Green to take in all of the historic buildings, and walk Loockerman Street. Then, dine at one of the fantastic cafes and restaurants, like Restaurant 55 or 33 West Ale House.
There's so much to see and explore in Delaware, and luckily we can do it all on one tank of gas! Who would you take on your ideal Delaware road trip? Where would you go? Tell us in the comments!
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