Delaware gets a lot of hate from neighboring states – like Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland. We also get a lot of unintentional hate from farther away states, in the form of those “Wait, where’s Delaware?” questions. So many people don’t realize how many great things in Delaware are here, waiting to be enjoyed by all. I’m not sure which is worse, but either way, if you’re talking smack on Delaware, I’m here to prove that there’s a lot to love in the First State. Check out some of the best things in Delaware below…and if you’re not convinced, then I’m sorry – you hate us ’cause you ain’t us!
1. We have the BEST state fair.
Delaware may get made fun of for being boring and empty, but we sure know how to put up rides and food stands and throw a week long party. Between the games, the fried oreos, and more, it doesn't get any better than the Delaware State Fair.
2. We've got the history.
Delaware was one of the first settlements in the New World and of course, the First State. Beyond that, we've made history in so many ways. The DuPont corporation was influential to the entire country, Fort Delaware was a Prison during the Civil War, and of course, the Mason Dixon Line was created due to a Delaware dispute. For such a small state, we've really made an impact.
3. We gave the world Uncle Joe.
It's hard to deny what a charming VP our native son is! From his Barack and Joe friendship bracelets, to his re-enacting of the landing of the Kalmar Nyckel, Joe Biden has brought the Delaware spirit to Washington.
4. Some of the best beaches in the country are in Delaware.
From Bowers to Rehoboth and down to Fenwick Island, Delaware's beaches are known across the country as a top summer destination. So, for everyone saying there's no reason to visit Delaware, 7 million annual visitors beg to differ.
5. There's no better ice cream than Delaware ice cream.
Woodside Creamery, UD Creamery and a few other great creameries make amazing ice cream in Delaware. In fact, once you've spent enough time in the First State, you don't really think ice cream from any other place is as good. And you're right - it's not. Locally made ice cream is one of the best things in Delaware.
6. Even our ghosts like to party.
You can't deny a drunk ghost wine, as everyone who's lived in the Woodburn Mansion has learned. Instead of, you know, popping out from behind walls and yelling "BOO!", Delaware ghosts just steal their housemates' antique, expensive wine. And that's something I think we can all relate to.
7. Our state parks are GORGEOUS.
White Clay Creek is a less crowded version of the beautiful Pennsylvania and Maryland parks that get crowded when the weather is nice - because it's sort of a hidden gem. Delaware may be mocked for being mostly traffic, but when you get off of the highways, you'll encounter lands you thought only existed in your imagination.
8. Delaware gave you Dead Poets Society.
O Captain, my captain. Dead Poets Society is one of the greatest movies of all time, and it was filmed and set in Delaware. You're welcome, rest of the country.
9. We Invented "Study Abroad."
The very first Study Abroad program in the USA was out of University of Delaware in 1923. So, if you spent junior year exploring Barcelona or Florence, you can thank the pioneering Blue Hens.
10. We've got that whole "East Coast Music Festival" thing down.
Remember All Points West, when New Jersey tried to host a music festival? It lasted two years, and the second year was a disaster. Gov Ball is great, but it's hard to get to, and super expensive. So, if you want to see an amazing group of musicians without leaving this time zone, you're gonna have to spend a lovely weekend in Delaware. It's so worth the trip.
11. We're bringing Punkin Chunkin back.
Who cares if launching heavy pumpkins from giant, homemade trebuchets is dangerous? Insurance companies do, Delaware doesn't. It's back after a brief hiatus - so tell me, how can you hate?
12. Our small towns have the best secrets.
From the old fashioned Claymont Theater to the world's cutest main streets, Delaware's small towns have so much to offer anyone who visits. You'd never expect it, but once you've experienced the best things in Delaware small towns, you'll never want to hang out anywhere else.
13. Our seafood is amazing.
Fresh Delaware Crab Cakes can be just as good as Maryland ones - and they're usually less expensive. Delaware Bay oysters are world famous, too. So, if you like seafood, you've gotta love Delaware!
14. Our state is full of wonder, amazement, and sheer beauty.
Anyone who doesn't like Delaware clearly hasn't experienced the magic of Winterthur, or the feeling of Delaware sand beneath your toes, or the view from the top of the Cape Henlopen tower. And you know what? That's okay. We can keep this beautiful state all to ourselves.
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