Delaware 50 by 50
Hi everyone. I am Amy with Simply Magical Vacations. Welcome to 50 by 50 where I highlight one state each week and what to do when visiting. This week is Delaware, the 1st state to join the union on December 7, 1787 and is nicknamed The First State because of this honor.
There are three main cities you will want to base your travels out of. Dover, the Capital of the state, is also the home of the Dover international Speedway which hosts two NASCAR races each year. Wilmington is the largest city though and is know for its riverfront restaurants and boutique stores. Newark is also an option which is the home of the University of Delaware and is the perfect place to see picturesque New England.
Not much of a city person? Head to Cape Henlopen State Park where you can golf, hike, bike, or play basketballs after enjoying some of its sandy stretches. Not enough sand for you? Visit Delaware Seashore State Park with plenty of soft sand, the Atlantic Ocean, and even fishing opportunities. Or head to Nemours Mansion and Gardens. A 1909 home that is inspired by neoclassical French Architecture, it also has the largest French gardens in North America to explore.
Looking to keep the kids entertained? Take them to Rehoboth rBeach where you will find Funland and a Boardwalk with plenty of amusement park rides, games, and food. Or take the ferry over to Pea Patch island and visit Fort Delaware where costumed interpreters protected the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia during the Civil War. Afterward visit Woodside Farm Creamery, a dairy farm that has been in operation and making ice cream since 1976! You can enjoy classic flavors while viewing the farm’s cows, goats, and sheep in the distance.
How about some unique dining experiences?
For all you beer lovers, visit Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. Dogfish Head first opened its doors in 1995 in Rehoboth Beach. Today, it’s considered an icon in American craft beer producing thousands of beer barrels per year. And, you can visit this brewery, learn about the process, and sample some of their finest creations, such as the Shelter Pale Ale, and seafood. For a true home cooked meal, visit The House of William & Merry—a 1922 farmhouse that was renovated downstairs for the restaurant. The chefs live upstairs with their family and grow herbs and vegetables in the backyard! Or Scalessa’s Old School Italian Kitchen in which they do things “My Way” to all of the classics. Make sure you get the meatballs in gravy. And visit the Hilton Christiana for dinner. The Market Kitchen and Bar at Hilton Christiana elevates the gastropub experience where you might consider staying the night so you don’t miss brunch the next morning.
Wanting a romantic weekend? Stay at the The Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa in Historic Wilmington, Delaware. Located in the Brandywine valley, this 19th century home is luxury at its best. Make reservations while you are there for the French-Asian restaurant called Krazy Kats where felines provide whimsical portraits.
Want to learn more about Delaware? Contact Me. Or you can let me know your favorite places to visit below. Also subscribe to my channel for ideas on vacations to other destinations. https://youtu.be/Bu67-n_1mP4