About Delaware

Delaware, known as 'The First State' for being the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution, offers travelers a charming blend of historic significance, coastal beauty, and tax-free shopping. History enthusiasts will find treasures in New Castle's cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, while Wilmington's museums and gardens showcase cultural sophistication. The state's coastline along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean provides serene beaches like Rehoboth and Bethany, perfect for family vacations with their classic boardwalks and gentle waves. Nature lovers can explore Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, a premier birding destination, or hike through the rolling hills of Brandywine Valley. Delaware's compact size makes it easy to experience diverse attractions within short drives, from the vibrant Riverfront in Wilmington to the quaint towns of Lewes and Milton. The state's unique position as a corporate haven contrasts with its peaceful countryside, offering an intriguing mix of modern convenience and timeless charm. Don't miss the culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, craft breweries, and the famous chicken from the Delmarva Peninsula.

Travel Tips for Delaware

Getting Around

A car is highly recommended as public transportation is limited outside Wilmington. DART buses serve major routes but have limited schedules. Wilmington has a commuter rail connection to Philadelphia. Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are available in populated areas. Taxis are found at airports and hotels. Biking is popular in beach towns and on designated trails. Ferries connect Lewes to Cape May, NJ. Major car rental companies operate at airports. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze work well throughout the state.

Best Time To Visit

Late May through early October for beach weather and festivals, with peak season in July-August. September-October offers pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage. Spring (April-May) is ideal for birdwatching and visiting gardens. Winter is quiet with occasional snow, good for historical tours and tax-free shopping without crowds.

Local Customs

Delawareans are generally friendly but reserved. Casual dress is acceptable except in upscale restaurants. Tipping 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $2-5 per night for hotel housekeeping is standard. Respect historical sites and natural areas. Beach etiquette includes cleaning up after yourself and following local rules about alcohol and pets. The state has a strong sense of history—showing interest in local heritage is appreciated. Business casual is common in corporate settings.

Safety Information

Delaware is generally safe for travelers, with violent crime rates below national averages. Exercise normal precautions in urban areas like Wilmington, especially at night in certain neighborhoods north of the city. Beach towns are very safe but practice standard beach safety: swim near lifeguards, secure valuables, and be cautious of rip currents. Common scams include parking lot scams near beaches and occasional credit card skimming at gas stations. Keep car doors locked and don't leave valuables visible. Rural areas are extremely safe but be cautious when driving on country roads at night due to wildlife. Emergency services are responsive throughout the state.

Health Information

Delaware has excellent medical facilities including ChristianaCare in Newark and Bayhealth in Dover. No special vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations. Travelers should have comprehensive health insurance as U.S. healthcare costs are high. Common health concerns include seasonal allergies (spring/fall) and tick-borne illnesses in wooded areas; use insect repellent when hiking. Beachgoers should protect against sun exposure and be aware of jellyfish in warmer months. Tap water is safe to drink. Emergency rooms are available in all major towns, but wait times can be long for non-urgent issues.

Languages Spoken

English

Quick Facts

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)
$

Timezone

America/New_York -05:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+1

Electricity

Type A, B; 120V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

1.03 million

Area

6452 km²

Government

State government with executive, legislative, and judicial branches; divided into three counties (New Castle, Kent, Sussex) with county and municipal governments

ISO Code

DE

Frequently Asked Questions