Delaware is tucked along the Mid-Atlantic coast, right between Maryland to the south, Pennsylvania to the north, New Jersey to the northeast, and the Atlantic to the east - and while it might be small in size, it packs quite a surprising punch when it comes to travel and leisure experiences. With an array of charming coastal towns, lush state parks, colorful cities, and rich historical roots, the First State is the perfect destination for a quick yet rejuvenating weekend break. Are you looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly excursion, or a solo escape to reconnect with nature? Well, Delaware might just have the answer, and it’s certainly got a lot to offer, from the vast and picturesque coastline of Rehoboth Beach to the southern border town of Fenwick Island, Delaware’s got some sure surprises up its sleeve.
So what is there to see and do if you decide to spend your much-deserved weekend break in Delaware? Well, we just might have the answers you’ve been searching for - so here’s a curated guide to the top weekend destinations in Delaware (and furthermore, what makes each spot special).
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1. Rehoboth Beach in Eastern Sussex County: The classic coastal escape
Rehoboth Beach is one city among the other towns in the popular summer enclave of Delaware Beaches, which is frequented by summer tourists from neighboring states and areas like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Baltimore, Hampton Roads, and South Jersey. If you find yourself in the area, then why not take a peek at what Rehoboth Beach has to offer and see why it’s a crowd favorite? President Joe Biden has a summer home in Rehoboth Beach, and the community is well-known for its affluent residents.
Why go:
Rehoboth Beach is one of Delaware’s most popular vacation spots, and for good reason. This charming seaside town boasts an interesting boardwalk, award-winning restaurants, tax-free shopping, and a welcoming, small-town feel that keeps visitors coming back for more.
Where to stay:
There are plenty of accommodations in Rehoboth Beach, including the popular Hotel Rehoboth as well as The Bellmoor Inn and Spa, Mar Bella Boutique Hotel, and Beach View Hotel, with budgets that cater to many tourists and visitors.
What to do:
- Stroll the Boardwalk: The mile-long Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is iconic, lined with local shops, eateries, and amusements – the Boardwalk was even named by Reader’s Digest as the ‘Best Beach of America,’ where it was featured in the May 2006 issue. Tip: don’t miss a sweet treat from Dolle’s Candyland.
- Relax on the beach: Soft sand, gentle waves, and lifeguards make this beach perfect for families.
- Eat local: Try local seafood at Henlopen City Oyster House or enjoy craft brews at Dogfish Head Brewery. You can also head to Grotto Pizza, which was founded in 1960 and now has more than a dozen locations in the state as well as Pennsylvania and Maryland.
- Explore nearby parks: Cape Henlopen State Park is just a short drive away and offers biking trails, historic WWII bunkers, and scenic beaches like Deauville Beach, where you can escape the beach crowds at Rehoboth Beach. There are other parks, too, such as Grove Park, offering a pavilion and playground, Stockley Street Park, Lake Gerar Park, and Deer Park.
Ideal for: Couples, families, and anyone who loves sun, surf, and shopping.
2. Lewes: Delaware’s historical coastal gem
Lewes, Delaware, is also on the eastern portion of Sussex County, and it has a small year-round population but its population booms every summer due to the many visitors who enjoy the sights and sounds of Lewes. Lewes is one of the primary cities that make up the ever-growing Cape Region.
Why go:
Often considered Rehoboth’s quieter cousin, Lewes is the ‘first town in the First State.’ It is actually an incorporated city located in Delaware Bay, also in eastern Sussex County, and it is rich with colonial charm, boutique shops, and scenic waterways. Lewes is definitely ideal for a more laid-back weekend break.
Where to stay:
You have plenty of options when it comes to unique accommodations in Lewes. There is a whole range of hotels and inns that cover a broad array of budgets, from the Hyatt House Lewes to the Hotel Rodney, Savannah Inn, and the Dogfish Inn, a quaint inn right in the heart of Lewes as well.
What to do:
- Tour the historic district: Visit preserved buildings like the Zwaanendael Museum and learn about Dutch settlement in the area.
- Enjoy a ferry ride: Take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry across the Delaware Bay for scenic views and a unique experience.
- Bike the trails: The Junction & Breakwater Trail offers beautiful views and a relaxing ride through woods and marshland.
- Dine al fresco: Waterfront restaurants like Striper Bites (an award-winning bistro with a nautical theme) and Agave Mexican Grill offer excellent meals and the most vibrant, colorful atmospheres.
Ideal for: History buffs, couples, and foodies.
3. Dewey Beach: The party-goer’s paradise
If you’re looking for the ultimate high-octane beach for your weekend escape, look no further than Dewey Beach. The coastal town can also be found in Sussex County, and it received a five-star rating in 2011 for its water quality. Even though it has a year-round population of just over 300, this number swells significantly during the summer to over 30,000! There are a good number of bars and restos that line the main street, marking it a party town to many visitors. And many don’t know this, but Dewey Beach is also a popular skimboarding spot, so if you’re into skimboarding, there’s another reason for you to give Dewey Beach a visit.
Where to stay:
Dewey Beach’s party people need to rest, too – and fortunately, there are a ton of places where you can rest your head and recuperate. The Bay Resort is a popular home away from home, and so is Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, the Atlantic View Hotel, Beach House Dewey, and Hotel Dewey.
Why go:
Known for its vibrant night scene, live music, and beach bar culture, Dewey Beach is perfect for those looking to mix relaxation with entertainment. Note: it's also very LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive, making it a welcoming spot for all travelers, no matter their inclination.
What to do:
- Hit the bars: Spots like The Starboard and Rusty Rudder are legendary for live music and dancing. The Rusty Rudder is also the best spot for drinks at its outdoor deck with the best views of Rehoboth Bay.
- Try water sports: Paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing are popular on Dewey Beach, as is skimboarding, as Dewey Beach annually holds the World Amateur Championships of Skimboarding.
- Attend a festival: From the Dewey Beach Music Conference to summer bonfires and movie nights on the beach, there’s always something happening.
Ideal for: Young travelers, groups of friends, and anyone who enjoys nightlife with a view.
4. Wilmington: The cultural city break
Wilmington is already known for being the most populous state in all of Delaware, and in 2020, its population reached more than 7 million. It is made up of many distinct neighborhoods, including Little Italy, Wawaset Park, Brandywine Hills, Midtown Brandywine, and Quaker Hill, among others.
Why go:
Delaware’s largest city offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and green spaces, making it a great urban escape. Located close to Philadelphia and Baltimore, Wilmington provides a dynamic mix of arts, history, and scenic beauty. It has many interesting spots and attractions, including Brandywine Zoo, the Grand Opera House, Rodney Square, and the Wilmington Riverfront and Wilmington State Parks.
Where to stay:
Being Delaware’s most populated city, Wilmington presents a wide array of options for a comfortable weekend stay. There is the Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront, Staybridge Suites Wilmington Downtown, the historic Hotel Du Pont, and the Sheraton Suites in downtown Wilmington - so take your pick!
What to do:
- Visit the Brandywine River Museum of Art: Just over the Pennsylvania border, this museum features works by Andrew Wyeth and his family.
- Tour the Nemours Estate: The Nemours Estate is a stunning 200-acre country estate and French-style mansion and gardens built by Alfred I. du Pont. It has a total of 105 rooms and shares its grounds with the Nemours Children’s Hospital.
- Enjoy the riverfront: The revitalized 1.75-mile Wilmington Riverwalk is filled with restaurants, such as Big Fish on the Riverfront and Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, a minor league baseball stadium, and the Delaware Children’s Museum.
- Savor fine dining: Restaurants like Bardea Food & Drink (a James Beard nominee) showcase award-winning cuisine with a modern twist, but you have a ton of other options when it comes to fine dining, such as Le Cavalier, Banks’ Seafood Kitchen, and many more.
Ideal for: Couples, art lovers, and urban explorers.
5. Bethany Beach: family-friendly seaside charm
Bethany Beach is a town in Sussex County once again, and the place is filled with throngs of beach-goers in the summer months. During the year, it has a small population of a little over a thousand – but this also swells in the summer and reaches over 15,000. Bethany Beach, along with Fenwick Island and South Bethany, are referred to as The Quiet Resorts due to their laid-back, calm vibe.
Why go:
Smaller and more tranquil than its neighboring beaches, Bethany Beach is perfect for families and travelers seeking a peaceful coastal experience.
Where to stay:
Bethany Beach offers plenty of different kinds of hotels, inns, and small bed and breakfasts, so you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your needs. First and foremost, there is Hotel Bethany Beach featuring a swimming pool and daily breakfast, then there is Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn, Fenwick Islander Motel, Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn, and many more.
What to do:
- Enjoy the ‘Quiet Beach’: Lifeguards, clean sand, and gentle surf make it a favorite for families with children.
- Catch a concert: The town’s central bandstand often hosts live music on summer evenings, and you can catch dinner afterward at the Bethany Boathouse, Off the Hook, and Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar.
- Shop local: Stroll through boutiques such as Alice & Laila and Fish Tales - and grab an ice cream at Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard.
- Nature time: Nearby Fenwick Island State Park offers the most excellent unspoiled dunes and great fishing spots.
Ideal for: Families, retirees, and those looking for tranquility.
6. Milford: A small town with a big heart
Milford is a small city right between Sussex and Kent counties, and its population is relatively small at around 12,000. Although it can’t compete with the beaches of Delaware, it has its own rustic, old-school charm. If you’re seeking peace and quiet, you can’t go wrong with a weekend visit to Milford.
Why go:
This picturesque town nestled along the Mispillion River is a hidden gem for those seeking a more low-key, artsy weekend escape.
Where to stay:
There are some notable hotel properties frequented by locals and visitors alike in Milford, and a few of them are well-known hotel chains like Microtel, Comfort Inn, and Hampton Inn, and some local inns like Rodeway Inn. You can stay at the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Milford, Comfort Inn & Suites, and Hampton Inn Milford. If you want to splurge a little, you can opt for The Towers Bed & Breakfast and Causey Mansion Bed & Breakfast.
What to do:
- Explore the riverwalk: The scenic Milford or Mispillion Riverwalk stretches along the Mispillion River and connects parks, galleries, and shops, and it’s a pleasant stroll, especially at dusk, when the area comes alive with twinkling lights.
- Art galleries galore: Visit Gallery 37 and Mispillion Art League to see local artwork and maybe even take a class. Gallery 37, in particular, may be small, but its artwork is carefully curated and features the best of what Delaware has to offer. The Mispillion Art League, on the other hand, features exhibits, art classes, and workshops dedicated to the youth and adults alike.
- Attend the Bug & Bud Festival: A quirky springtime event held on Memorial Day weekend that celebrates both Arbor Day and the town’s love for ladybugs. It also celebrates Milford’s designation as a USA Tree City.
- Try local brews: Visit Mispillion River Brewing for craft beer and occasional live music events, and the Big Oyster Brewery for events and happenings, such as Trivia Nights.
Ideal for: Artists, small-town enthusiasts, and couples looking for a quiet getaway.
7. New Castle: a step back in time
New Castle is another small enclave in Delaware that packs quite a big punch, especially since every corner is steeped in history. It is located in New Castle County and is right on the Delaware River on the southern side of Wilmington. It is notable for the New Castle Historic District, which was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1967. It is also the birthplace of former President Joe Biden.
Why go:
Historic New Castle feels like walking through a colonial-era movie set. Cobblestone streets, preserved buildings, and charming inns make it a delightful destination for history lovers.
Where to stay:
New Castle boasts a host of hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts, such as Courtyard New Castle, a modern boutique hotel in the heart of the city, Terry House Bed & Breakfast, a smaller bed & breakfast near interesting sites, and Quality Inn, found in Newark, just minutes away from New Castle.
What to do:
- Walk through history: Take a self-guided tour of landmarks like the New Castle Court House, Amstel House, and Read House and Gardens.
- Browse antique shops: The town is full of antique stores and vintage treasures, such as Cobblestone Antiques, 2nd Act Antiques, and Lauren Lynch Antiques.
- Picnic in Battery Park: With views of the Delaware River, New Castle Battery Park is a perfect spot to relax and watch the ships sail past. You can also go walking, biking, or hiking, as the Park boasts paved paths.
- Stay in a historic inn: Spend the night at the David Finney Inn for a truly immersive experience – especially if you like a taste of the macabre, since it is said to be home to many ‘happy’ spirits who roam its halls to this day. Alternatively, you could stay at the other accommodations in New Castle mentioned above.
Ideal for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and romantic couples.
8. Trap Pond State Park: A true nature lover’s retreat
Trap Pond State Park is an almost 4,000-acre haven near Laurel, and it is a wetland teeming with all sorts of majestic creatures. It is home to a big patch of bald cypress trees where many types of birds make their nests and flock – including owls, great blue herons, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, and even bald eagles when in season.
Why go:
For those who crave outdoor adventure, Trap Pond State Park offers a serene and secluded escape into Delaware’s natural beauty.
Where to stay:
You can choose to stay in the midst of nature at the Trap Pond State Park campground, with its climate-controlled cabins, RV and tent sites, and even yurts. It was even voted by Reader’s Digest as Delaware’s most scenic campsite. Alternatively, you can stay at nearby hotels and inns such as Wingate by Wyndham Salisbury, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Georgetown, or Avid Hotels at Millsboro – Georgetown South.
What to do:
- Kayak or take a pontoon tour through bald cypress swamps: Paddle or ride on a pontoon through the northernmost bald cypress trees in the US and catch a glimpse of the wildlife that lives among the majestic trees.
- Hike or bike: There are multiple trails that wind through the park’s lush landscape.
- Camp under the stars: As mentioned previously, cabins, tent sites, and yurts are available for overnight or weekend stays.
- Wildlife watching: Keep a close eye out for herons, turtles, and even beavers and bald eagles.
Ideal for: Campers, hikers, birdwatchers, and outdoor lovers.
9. Fenwick Island: The quiet southern border town
Fenwick Island is a very popular coastal town on the southern border in Sussex County, and it is a barrier spit island and its northern neighbors, South Bethany and Bethany Beach, are known as the ‘Quiet Resorts.’ But Fenwick Island is a little less quiet than its neighbors because it is just across the state from Ocean City in Maryland, which has a lively atmosphere.
Why go:
Situated at the southern tip of Delaware’s coastline, Fenwick Island provides a calmer beach experience while still offering family-friendly attractions.
Where to stay:
There are a myriad of places to stay at Fenwick Island, and the place boasts such accommodations as Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Fenwick Islander Motel, Atlantic Coast Inn, and Fenwick Inn, among many others.
What to do:
- Swim and sunbathe: Fenwick Island is a lot less crowded than other beach towns, which makes it ideal for peaceful seaside lounging.
- Visit DiscoverSea Shipwreck museum: Looking to while away the whole day? Why not visit DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum and learn about maritime history and view actual shipwreck artifacts!
- Play mini golf & enjoy the water parks: Kids (and kids at heart) will love the Thunder Lagoon Waterpark and the nearby amusements, including a 19-hole mini-golf course, an exciting go-kart track, and the Fenwick Boardwalk.
- Dine fresh: Enjoy freshly caught seafood at Nantuckets Restaurant, especially with its ‘best crab cakes,’ or One Coastal Restaurant with its local cheese board and Hudson Valley Duck Breast.
Ideal for: Families, seekers of peace and tranquil surroundings, and laid-back beachgoers.
10. Hagley Museum and Library: industrial heritage and beautiful grounds
Although it is part of New Castle County, Delaware, Hagley Museum and Library is a unique destination in itself. You can stay in New Castle and make it a point to visit the grounds the entire weekend. There are plenty of sights to see, and this includes the first family home of the du Ponts as well as the garden, the powder yards, and a machine shop built in the 19th century.
Why go:
Located on the banks of the Brandywine River in New Castle County, Hagley is the former gunpowder works of the du Pont family and offers a unique blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty.
Where to stay:
You can decide to stay at several nearby hotels and inns, including the elegant The Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa, Brandywine River Hotel, and DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown Wilmington.
What to do:
- Tour the grounds and the entire estate: See restored mills, the du Pont ancestral home, and hands-on science exhibits.
- Walk the trails: There are scenic riverside paths that are ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
- Picnic on the lawn: The museum grounds provide lovely picnic spots under towering trees.
Ideal for: History buffs, families with older children, and educational travelers.
Whether you're craving a coastal getaway, a cultural immersion, or a peaceful weekend in nature, Delaware has the best weekend break options that fit every style of traveler. Moreover, its manageable size means you can explore multiple destinations in one trip, and with tax-free shopping and diverse culinary offerings, you’re bound to leave with more than just memories.
The excitement of a Delaware weekend getaway
Delaware may be the second smallest state in the US, but it more than compensates for its size with a wealth of diverse and truly delightful weekend destinations. Are you in search of sun-soaked beaches, colonial charm, a heady nightlife, rich cultural offerings, or serene natural retreats? Well, Delaware has got it all. From the energy of Dewey Beach to the tranquility of Trap Pond State Park, each spot brings something unique to the table. One fun fact? Delaware was the very first state to ratify the US Constitution – and that is why it has rightfully earned the nickname “The First State.” Yet despite this historical claim to fame, it remains one of the country’s best-kept travel secrets.
A weekend break in Delaware offers the ideal blend of relaxation, discovery, and adventure - without the crowds or chaos of more well-known destinations. So whether you're a beach bum, a history buff, or a foodie on the hunt for your next great meal, consider giving Delaware a chance. You might just find your new favorite getaway tucked between the Atlantic waves and colonial brick paths - and it’s a true hidden gem for you alone.
