Nicknamed the ‘Diamond State’ by Thomas Jefferson due to its strategic location on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, Delaware is a spectacular destination rich in colorful history, historic colonial cities, gorgeous ocean beaches, world-class gardens, vibrant riverfronts, educational museums, prestigious universities and endless opportunities for professional sports. Whether you are planning a peaceful beach vacation, a relaxing golf getaway, a family holiday with kids, a historic sightseeing adventure or a romantic honeymoon, Delaware is a place where all your dreams will come true. Remember, Delaware is a unique hotspot with something for everyone!
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, as well as by the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, Delaware affords easy access to the major metropolitan areas of the Northeast. Delaware enjoys temperate and humid climate, with hot summers and relatively cold winters with snow and around 202 sunny days per year. Delaware is an ideal state to visit four seasons a year and enjoy every season in its full blossom. It’s worth mentioning that Delaware was the first of the original 13 colonies to sign the new constitution making them the ‘First State’ in the United States of America.
Delaware is blessed with a world of dynamic attractions to see and do, and the most difficult thing is to decide where to start from. Here are 5 most popular places of interest in Delaware that lure not only the friendly locals but also holidaymakers from surrounding states and different parts of the world. Head to Wilmington and take the advantage of being in the middle of it all.
Wilmington
Located in the New Castle County, approximately 30 miles south of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one can find Wilmington – the capital and largest city of Delaware with much to offer its visitors in terms of sightseeing and things to do. One of the highlights of the city is the Riverfront Wilmington, packed with delicious dining spots, live entertainment clubs, and such art and culture attractions, as the Delaware Children’s Museum, Iron Hill Brewery and more. Another highlight of the city is the awe-inspiring Kalmar Nyckel – The Tall Ship, which is a re-creation of the historic vessel that brought the first settlers to the Delaware valley during the 17th century.
Wilmington is also home to Delaware’s only zoo – the Brandywine Zoo, opened since 1905, which is a great getaway for kids who come to admire animals in their natural habitats, as well as indulge in educational programs. Hotels are plentiful in Wilmington, and this also refers to the dining venues. For shopping enthusiasts the city comes with the Brandywine Shopping Center.
The city is easily accessed by different parts of the state and this makes it a prime location for a romantic getaway, tax-free girls shopping weekend, or a superb city break.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
Dating back to the 1950s, Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is a spectacular 175-room mansion in Wilmington, which is a must see getaway for those interested in architecture and decorative arts. Covering a total area of 1000 acres, the museum was founded by Henry Francis du Pont, whose aim was to showcase his Americana collection. The museum is a great family-friendly getaway, as there is much to see and do for the whole family. While parents can enjoy the nationally renowned library which serves as a center to study American Art, children have the chance to stroll around the specially designed Enchanted Forest, and take part in different activities.
White Clay Creek State Park
Another fantastic getaway that appeals large amount of crowds is the picturesque White Clay Creek State Park, which is a relaxing oasis of lush greenery and sparkling steams, where there is no shortage of refreshing change of pace and endless opportunities for active pursuits and outdoor fun. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy 37 miles of trails, leading to some of the state’s best historic sites and scenic vistas. There are plenty of other year-round activities available at White Clay Creek Park, from cultural and natural programs to organized youth camping to biking, fishing, bird-watching, to sledding and cross-country skiing during the winter months.
This and much more are waiting for you in Delaware…