Welcome to Delaware
Sporting 25 miles of sun-soaked beaches along with extravagant mansions from America’s Gilded Age, Delaware lives up to the Diamond State moniker given to it by founding father Thomas Jefferson. In fact, this small wonder lays claim to some of the most prized possessions of the Mid-Atlantic region. Visitors discover these gems as they explore Delaware’s tranquil woodland trails, pivotal historic sites, renowned NASCAR races, tax-free shopping and shimmering shores.
State Flower: Peach Blossom. Getty Images
NASCAR, Mansions and Boardwalks
History and entertainment blend effortlessly in Dover. Catch a NASCAR race at the International Speedway, with “The Monster Mile” oval racetrack setting the scene for racing legends. Learn about the founding fathers at First State Heritage Park, commemorating Delaware’s role in 1787 as the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. In Wilmington, gain insight into the famous du Pont family by exploring the Nemours Mansion and Gardens, a French chateau-style estate with 77 lavish rooms. Rehoboth Beach invites you to stroll a mile-long boardwalk that’s lined with quirky shops, carnival rides and live entertainment.
Go Fish
Cast a line in Trap Pond State Park to reel in everything from pickerel and crappie to largemouth bass and catfish. A boat-launching ramp accommodates small, motorized vessels, and the park’s stream has been marked as a wilderness canoe trail. Fenwick Island State Park offers some of the best striped bass fishing on the East Coast, while the shallow waters of Holts Landing State Park promise plenty of mussels, clams and blue crabs.
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Seas the Day
Delaware is only 96 miles long yet still manages to squeeze long stretches of postcard-worthy beaches into its relatively small footprint. You’ll find some of the best shores in Delaware Seashore State Park, home to 6 miles of ocean coastline with swimming, surfing and sunbathing. Cape Henlopen State Park is another popular destination, thanks to its pristine shores, grand old lighthouse and World War II observation tower; climb it for panoramic views of the surf and sand.