10 Delaware Road Trip Ideas With Hidden Gems

Delaware is a small state yes, but at the same time as you’ll soon discover, it packs a surprising amount of cool spots to visit, especially if you’re wanting to do a road trip here. From the cobblestone streets of New Castle to the undeveloped shores of Cape Henlopen, a Delaware road trip is a perfect way to explore the Mid-Atlantic’s best-kept secrets. This guide shares 10 amazing Delaware road trip ideas that combine popular attractions with hidden gems, offering both charm and adventure around every bend.

1. Coastal Delaware Loop

This scenic coastal loop takes you from the bustling Rehoboth Beach to quiet marshlands and undeveloped coastline. While Rehoboth is known for its boardwalk and summer events, nearby spots like the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and Fenwick Island’s hidden coves offer peaceful retreats. Paddle through tidal creeks, bike along flat trails, and enjoy uncrowded beaches away from the crowds.

Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring through early fall (May–October)

Hidden gems to see:

• Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

• Delaware Seashore State Park’s Tower Road Beach

• Fenwick Island’s Assawoman Wildlife Area

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Rehoboth Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park
Day 2: Dewey Beach, Indian River Inlet
Day 3: Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island

2. Wilmington to Brandywine Valley Scenic Drive

Explore northern Delaware’s rolling hills, historic estates, and art museums on this short but picturesque drive. Begin in Wilmington and head through the Brandywine Valley, known for its connection to the DuPont family. Stop at hidden gardens, historic mills, and tucked-away museums surrounded by lush forested roads.

Ideal Time to Go:
Spring and fall for vibrant blooms and foliage

Hidden gems to see:

• Mt. Cuba Center native plant garden

• Rockwood Park & Museum

• Ashland Nature Center

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Wilmington, Nemours Estate, Mt. Cuba Center
Day 2: Brandywine Creek State Park, Winterthur Museum

3. The Delaware Bayshore Byway

A lesser known drive, this byway runs along the state’s east coast through preserved marshes, wildlife refuges, and historic towns. Ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone seeking a slow-paced, nature focused road trip. You’ll encounter fishing villages, lighthouses, and quiet wetlands.

Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring and fall, especially for bird migrations

Hidden gems to see:

• Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

• Port Mahon’s ghostly shoreline

• Woodland Beach Wildlife Area

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Dover, Little Creek, Port Mahon
Day 2: Bombay Hook, Smyrna, Woodland Beach

4. Historic Delaware Towns Tour

Step back in time with a road trip through Delaware’s charming and lesser-known historic towns. Explore cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and quaint shops. New Castle and Odessa are beautifully preserved, while Lewes offers a mix of history and waterfront charm.

Ideal Time to Go:
Year-round, but especially scenic in fall

Hidden gems to see:

• Historic Odessa Foundation

• Read House & Gardens in New Castle

• Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Old New Castle, Battery Park
Day 2: Odessa, Middletown
Day 3: Lewes, Cape May–Lewes Ferry

5. Delaware’s State Park Circuit

This nature-themed loop takes you through several of Delaware’s state parks, each offering unique ecosystems and activities. From coastal dunes to inland forests and freshwater ponds, the diversity in such a small state is impressive.

Ideal Time to Go:
Spring to fall for outdoor exploration

Hidden gems to see:

• Killens Pond’s hidden trails

• Trap Pond’s cypress swamp

• Lums Pond’s zip line course

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Cape Henlopen, Killens Pond
Day 2: Trap Pond State Park
Day 3: Lums Pond State Park

6. Arts & Gardens Road Trip

For those who love art, gardens, and unique cultural stops, this itinerary focuses on Delaware’s hidden creativity. You’ll find art museums, sculpture trails, and hidden greenhouses perfect for a serene road trip.

Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring through early fall

Hidden gems to see:

• Delaware Art Museum’s sculpture garden

• Goodstay Gardens in Wilmington

• University of Delaware’s Botanic Gardens

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Delaware Art Museum, Rockford Park
Day 2: Goodstay Gardens, UD Botanic Gardens

7. Delaware Beer & Farm Loop

Discover Delaware’s booming craft beer scene and countryside farm stops. Perfect for couples or groups wanting to experience local flavors with a scenic drive through the state’s farmland.

Ideal Time to Go:
Late summer through fall for harvest season

Hidden gems to see:

• Revelation Craft Brewing

• Fifer Orchards

• Painted Stave Distilling

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Milton, Dogfish Head Brewery
Day 2: Smyrna, Dover breweries and orchards

8. Hidden Beaches & Secret Shorelines

Escape the crowds with this road trip focused on Delaware’s lesser-known beaches and natural shores. Perfect for peace, wildlife watching, and coastal views without the usual buzz.

Ideal Time to Go:
May to September

Hidden gems to see:

• Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve

• Bowers Beach

• Big Stone Beach

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Broadkill Beach, Beach Plum Island
Day 2: Bowers Beach, Big Stone Beach

9. Delaware Waterways & Paddling Adventure

Bring your kayak or rent one to explore Delaware by water. This trip is designed for active travelers looking to paddle through cypress swamps, tidal creeks, and quiet inland lakes.

Ideal Time to Go:
Late spring to early fall

Hidden gems to see:

• Nanticoke River paddle trail

• Blackbird Creek Reserve

• Silver Lake in Dover

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Trap Pond kayak trails
Day 2: Nanticoke River, overnight in Seaford
Day 3: Blackbird Creek paddle & picnic

10. Covered Bridges and Back Roads Drive

Though few, Delaware’s covered bridges and backcountry roads make for a peaceful and scenic road trip, especially in autumn. Combine the journey with small town cafés and antique shopping.

Ideal Time to Go:
Fall for foliage and peaceful drives

Hidden gems to see:

• Ashland Covered Bridge

• Red Clay Scenic Byway

• Hale-Byrnes House

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Hockessin, Ashland Nature Center
Day 2: Red Clay Valley Scenic Byway, Newark

Things to Know Before You Go:

• Tolls: Delaware has toll roads (e.g., Route 1) — have an E-ZPass or cash ready.

• Traffic: Summer beach traffic can be heavy on weekends — start early!

• Parking: Coastal towns like Rehoboth often require paid parking during peak season.

• Weather: Coastal areas can be windy and cooler than inland — bring layers.

• Wildlife: Bring binoculars for birding, especially along the Bayshore and refuge areas.

Suggested Packing List:

• Lightweight hiking shoes or sandals

• Bug spray (especially near marshes)

• Beach gear (towel, umbrella, sunscreen)

• Daypack and refillable water bottle

• Camera or phone with zoom for wildlife

• Binoculars and field guide if birding

• Rain jacket or windbreaker

• Local maps (cell signal can be spotty in remote areas)

Final Thoughts:

Delaware is more than just a pass-through state—it’s a compact gem brimming with hidden adventures, historic towns, and natural beauty. Whether you’re into beach lounging, kayaking, history, or craft beer, there’s a road trip for you here. Have questions or want help planning your Delaware getaway? Drop them in the comments below, I’m happy to help!