These Five Unique Day Trips Will Take You To Unforgettable Places In Delaware
By Katy|Updated on February 14, 2020(Originally published January 29, 2020)
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Katy
Author
Katy is a life-long Delaware resident who grew up on a small grain farm and spent her summers enjoying time at the beach. A full time public relations professional by day and a content specialist with OIYS at night, Katy loves sharing her love of her home state with fellow Delawareans and others. Loves: local food, dachshunds, horseshoe crabs, hiking, farmers markets, bourbon.
Considering that you can start at the northern tip of the state of Delaware, and in just over 2 hours be at the southern end of the state, most people don’t think of Delaware as a day trip destination. When visitors zoom down the highways and skip right over the state, they’re missing out on history and attractions that are sure to delight any sort of day trip adventurer. If you’re looking for the best day trips in Delaware, you’ll find plenty of inspiration below.
1. Take a scenic drive down Route 9 in New Castle and Kent Counties and explore the history and nature of Delaware.
Take a hike along the trails that lead you over and around the marsh. You can watch paddlers on Mallard Pond, too! Check out the Education Center's website, here.
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A bit further along, don't miss the wonder of Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.
Drive down a mile long driveway to the St. Jones Reserve and take in one of the most underrated spots in the First State. Explore the nature center and hike along the trails to wrap up your day in Delaware's wilderness.
2. Take time to learn about historic methods of transport at Auburn Heights and the Wilmington and Western Railroad.
History lovers always find plenty of things to do in Delaware! If you plan your trip right, you'll be able to putter around in an old fashioned steam car at the Marshall Steam Museum!
The Marshall Steam Museum is located on the grounds of Auburn Valley State Park, which also boasts mansion tours and 360 acres of hikable land.
Travel back in time when you enjoy a ride through the Red Clay Valley. You can plan a dinner train, scenic journey, or participate in one of their special event tours.
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3. Grab a designated driver and visit Delaware's distilleries, all of which are pretty new to the scene.
You'll be able to pick up a map of the city's most historic spots, and the staff is happy to help you shape a delightful day in town. Some of the best day trips in Delaware happen here in the "First Town In The First State."
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If you're a fan of the ocean, you'll want to climb on to the Lightship Overfalls.
There are just about a dozen lightships left in the United States, and Overfalls is one of the most famous. This landmark is open to visitors who want to learn about maritime navigation and rescue history.
The Zwaanandael Museum honors the heavy Dutch influence in Delaware, from the earliest days of the state's discovery.
Do you remember when Immanuel caught fire? Now, it has been fully restored and remains one of Delaware's most recognizable landmarks.
The best day trips in Delaware show off history, culture, and nature! There’s never a reason to be bored here in the First State, so gas up the car and experience our endless discoveries.
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More to Explore
best day trips in Delaware
Kim Magaraci|February 13, 2020
What is the best getaway spot in Delaware?
It's hard to top the Delaware beaches! Plan a trip just steps away from the ocean and you'll find plenty of ways to relax, dine, shop, and entertain the whole family.
Are there any other day trips to take in Delaware?
Most of the beaches in Delaware are free, and the State Parks can be visited for a nominal fee. Otherwise, it's free to browse many of the historic neighborhoods in Dover, Georgetown, Odessa and Lewes. For more affordable things to do, read Here Are 10 Awesome Things You Can Do in Delaware For $10 or Less.
