Delaware is proud to be the First State, but we've got years of history to show off from both before and after the American Revolution. Check out some of the state's most storied sites on this historic Delaware road trip.
Take this historic Delaware road trip to journey through time.
Click HERE for an interactive map with directions and addresses.
The Hagley Museum is your first stop.
This historic museum and estate was the first DuPont powder mill and home in America. You can tour the grounds, old mills, and steamroom to get a glimpse of the Industrial Revolution in Delaware.
Next, head to the Wilmington Waterfront to see the gorgeous Kalmar Nyckel
The Kalmar Nyckel is a replica of the ship that brought the first European Settlers to Delaware. This replica sails all summer long, and you can usually visit the ship at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation dock.
Drive down to New Castle after you see the ship and keep an eye out for the tall tower of Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green.
Immanuel on the Green was founded in 1689, and it is one of the oldest Episcopal parishes in the United States. This landmark church was the site of a fire in February 1980, and nearly everyone who grew up here can tell you where they were when Immanuel was on fire.Read more about this historic chapel right here.
After a busy morning, it's time for lunch! Try a meal at Jessop's Tavern to keep with the historic theme of this road trip.
Jessop's is a colonial themed restaurant set in a 300 year old building. The fare here is all early American, and you'll be able to sip old fashioned brews and chow down on hearty shepherd's pie.Read more about Jessop's right here!
After lunch, catch a ferry to Pea Patch Island to see Fort Delaware.
Fort Delaware may be the most haunted place in the state, but during the day, you'll be safe! Learn about the history of Delaware during the Civil War at this fascinating historic site.
Historic Odessa is next up!
The entire downtown area of Odessa is on the National Register of Historic Places. Once an important port town, Odessa was hit hard by the railroad being built in Middletown. Read more about Odessa's fascinating history here
After all that walking, it's time to relax for a bit. To the Green in Dover we go!
This downtown square is surrounded by historic buildings. Walk a lap, read the signs explaining each building's historic significance, and then relax and watch the day go by from one of the benches. There are several coffee shops nearby where you can grab your afternoon pick-me-up. Dover is also a great town to crash for the night - there are dozens of hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts nearby.
Whether you decided to stay overnight in Dover or you're determined to make this a day trip, there's one more tour on your list: the Dickinson Plantation.
John Dickinson was an important Delaware politician, and his estate is now available for historic walking tours.
Grab a great meal in Georgetown on your way to your final destination.
Georgetown is a historic colonial town that's home to some amazing taquerias. Stop by Jalapeno's for authentic latin cuisine. Be sure to check out the historic fountain in the Circle, right in the heart of town.
Your final stop on this historic Delaware road trip is the Cannonball House in Lewes.
This home dates back to the war of 1812, when Lewes was under siege by the British. The cannonball that was fired into the house is still lodged into the wall.
As you wind down your trip, be sure to catch a sunset on the water in Lewes! Cape Henlopen's view is the best in the state. Share your favorite pictures from your journey on our Delaware Nature Lovers Facebook page!
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