Delaware’s a crowded state above the canal, but lucky for us, there’s plenty of space to stretch out in Slower, Lower. It’s nice to take the time to appreciate our rural surroundings with a scenic drive – but oftentimes, those drives are straight through the country, heading down to Trap Pond or maybe out to Harvest Ridge Winery. Don’t forget about the bayshore, which is the largest tract of preserved marshland on the east coast! Delaware’s ecological diversity is on display on quiet Route 9, where you can sometimes drive for miles and not see anyone beyond the bay gulls and birds that call these marshlands home.

The 'official' Bayshore Byway starts off in historic New Castle.
It's a great place to grab lunch before you begin your journey. Stop into one of the many cafes and take a few minutes to stroll downtown New Castle - it'll set the mood for a day of discovery.
As you head south, you'll quickly end up on Route 9.
Flickr / Doug Kerr
Delaware Route 9 is a quiet, two-lane highway that runs along the bay coast of the state, from New Castle down into Dover.
This is an amazing drive to do at dawn or dusk, because the light on the marsh is quite a sight.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
And you'll see plenty of marsh on this drive - these diverse wetlands are preserved and protected by both federal agencies and the State of Delaware.
As you continue on your drive, you'll pass through a few small bay shore towns.
Flickr / Doug Kerr
You'll see Port Penn, skirt Woodland Beach, and pass by Sambo's Tavern in Leipsic. Boats and docks will be common roadside sights.

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Keep an eye out for migratory birds!
Flickr / Jeffrey
Beautiful herons, gulls, and other birds stop along our shores on their journeys north and south.
If you time it right, the road will be quiet for miles and miles.
Flickr / Doug Kerr
Of course, Delaware Route 9 will be more crowded after memorial day, when locals and tourists alike begin to head to the beaches.
About halfway through your drive, you'll see the stunning Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge.
Flickr / Pontla
Be sure to stop and stroll the walking paths! This enormous plot of preserved marsh is among the largest in the country, and it's an important stop on the Atlantic Flyway. You'll be blown away by the ecologic diversity!
The road seems to go on forever...
Flickr / Doug Kerr
and it's a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of New Castle County life!
The scenery is beyond gorgeous year-round.
Flickr / James O'Guinn
From the marshlands to the historic cities of New Castle and Dover that bookend the route, Delaware Route 9 is the most incredible escape that's hiding right along our coast. Pack a few snacks and get ready for a drive that'll leave you feeling relaxed and ready for the week ahead.

Delaware is full of beautiful scenic routes, so if Route 9 is not your cup of tea, check out any of the other 6 Beautiful Byways In Delaware Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.

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