Delaware is one of the small states in the USA. Here it is still cozy and even the typical skyscraper cities are searched in vain. It is the fascinating nature and the harsh climate of the Atlantic Ocean that make Delaware so unique. The miles of sandy beaches are deserted even in summer, the roads are endless and the shimmering blue rivers crisscross the state from the east. In Delaware, you can spend an unforgettable vacation.
Delaware – The State of Outdoor Activities
Hardly any other state offers as many outdoor activities as Delaware. Visitors can paddle across the many waterways or discover the lakes by canoe. Delaware is also known as a cycling state. You can easily rent a bike in any city. The cycle path network is excellently developed and the routes lead along the coasts or through the national parks. The east coast state also offers first-class opportunities for trekking and hiking. Many hiking trails lead through the state parks such as the pristine Killens Pond Park or Fort Delaware Park with its famous fortress. The coast is one big outdoor playground. If you want, you can get on your surfboard and ride over the waves of the rough Atlantic or enjoy fantastic views while parasailing. Skill is required for stand-up paddling and you can experience paradisiacal sunsets on a boat tour.
Historic sites and living past
The entire history of the state can be experienced on a tour of the Delaware History Trail. It takes tourists to all points of history. A passport with all the important information is available from the state’s tourism office. To visit the historical sights, visitors will receive online codes until the pass is full. History is still alive not only in the magnificent mansions, but also away from civilization. West of the capital Dover, the so-called Amish people live according to the traditions of a long-forgotten time. The Amish region is a peaceful place of tranquility: Here, visitors can look over the shoulders of the Amish people during handicraft activities or buy handmade things at special markets. Throughout the year, the Amish community offers cultural and historical activities that also encourage participation. The Amish landscapes can also be discovered via a specially designated path by bike or on foot.
Miles of deserted sandy beaches
For good reason, city dwellers from Washington and Philadelphia have been drawn to the coasts of Delaware for decades. Six fascinating sandy beaches line the east coast of the state. Although the landscape is almost the same, each beach has its own charm. On the beach of Lewes you can indulge in culinary delights in the many restaurants and the beach of Cap Henlopen attracts with a breathtaking dune landscape. Point Cape Henlopen is dominated by solitude and the centrepiece of this fairytale stretch of coastline is the mysterious lighthouse. Rehoboth Beach is a magnet for the country’s rich and famous. See and be seen is the motto of the people on the well-known promenade. Here you can stroll past small shops or stop off at one of the maritime restaurants. Playgrounds and rides also attract families with children during the season. A stark opposite is Dewey Beach.
The entire region is a place of attraction for young people and the young at heart. No other place in Delaware is better suited to turn night into day. First there is dancing on the beach and then partying in the numerous nightclubs until the morning. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you have to visit Bethany Beach. On this idyllic stretch of coast, Delaware shows its most pristine side. Fenwick Island beach is also a wonderful place to relax and unwind.
Culinary delights combined with a fantastic panorama
Delaware scores with a culinary offer of superlatives. The state made water dining famous in the first place. The term stands for restaurants that not only have something to offer in terms of culinary delights, but also impress with their unique location by the sea. The entire cuisine is dominated by seafood and fish, which are served in all variations. Some restaurants, such as the Paradise Grill in Millsboro, entice with outdoor dining on the beach. The fantastic sunset over the sea is free of charge in the beach restaurants. Many restaurants are still open after the kitchen closes. Then they turn into trendy pubs and fiery cocktails are mixed. During the day, an appealing street food offer stands out. This ranges from fish sandwiches to tropical food boxes to freshly cooked mussels. Most restaurants are family-friendly and have special offers for younger guests.
Beaches and promenades become a stage
In Delaware, there is always a party somewhere. There is a colourful programme of events throughout the year. Every summer, the beaches and promenades become a large open-air stage. There are festivals of all kinds and sometimes bikers or wine connoisseurs come by for a meeting. The many markets and city festivals are known beyond the borders of the state. Delaware also attracts visitors with quiet and contemplative events, such as full moon hikes or winter coastal tours. Twice a year, the migratory birds make a stop in Delaware. This is the reason for the Delmarva Birding Weekends. Birdwatchers and naturalists from all over the world come to the East Coast of the USA for this event. In each coastal town there are special galleries, most of which exhibit the works of regional artists. The highlight of the year is the Fire and Ice Festival in February. Then huge ice sculptures will be made in Bethany Beach, which will be staged with LED lamps.
