What to Do When You Only Have 48 Hours in Delaware

Delaware is one of the most underrated states in the country because of its size and location, but do not let that fool you. Delaware has a little bit of everything, but their local secrets are what people are really missing out on. With beautiful beaches, wildlife refuges, charming bay towns, festivals, and much more, there are countless exciting things to do in Delaware. Here is what to do when you only have 48 hours in Delaware.

Lavender Fields Farm

This beautiful farm is hiding in plain sight, yet most tourists do not know about it at all. This 5-acre lavender farm is part of Warrington Manor, located on the scenic Delmarva Peninsula. Open nearly every day of the week, visitors can stroll through the lavender fields, attend live demonstrations, and visit the cottage store for lavender goodies.

If you are around in June, the Lavender Festival will be in full swing, as Warrington Manor celebrates the beginning of lavender harvest season. Visitors can enjoy free activities such as workshops on growing lavender, herbs and flowers, wreath making, cooking with lavender and herbs, and more.

Lavender fields in Delaware
Lavender fields in Delaware. Photo credit: Visit Southern Delaware.

Woodburn Mansion 

If you are headed to Dover, Delaware, take a tour of the Delaware Governor’s Mansion. Built in 1798, Woodburn is known as one of the most superb Middle Period Georgian homes in the state. Free tours of the mansion are given every Monday through Friday but must be scheduled at least a full day in advance.

Golden Fleece Tavern 

The historic Golden Fleece is the perfect place to grab a drink after a day of sight-seeing. The original location of the tavern—now demolished—was the very place where 30 delegates gathered to make Delaware the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution, back in 1787. Military members and veterans also receive a 10 percent discount.

DuPont Mansions 

Chateau Country is Delaware’s most exclusive region and has been home to the DuPont family and its mansions for generations. Visitors can tour these homes and gardens, some of which are the equivalent of a museum. Each mansion has its own personality and charm and tells its own story. Choose from the Nemours Mansion and Gardens, Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, and the Hagley Museum and Library.

48 hours in Delaware: DuPont Mansions, Nemours Mansion
48 hours in Delaware: Nemours Mansion. Photo by Charles McCool

>>> Discover more gardens, mansion, and great Places to Visit in Wilmington Delaware.

Lums Pond State Park

Ever wanted to visit an adventure park in the middle of the forest? Well now you can at the beautiful Lums Pond State Park. Experience an once-in-a-lifetime adventure on the Go Ape treetop, where you can swing through the trees high above. Hike along pond-side trails, have a picnic lunch by the water, or give disc golf a try. See Delaware’s largest freshwater pond at the park and some incredible views while on a canoe ride on the water.

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Supposedly Delaware’s best kept secret, this hidden park is 10,000 acres of land and water, ready to be explored. Take a hike or go for a canoe ride and see wildlife around every corner, as the refuge is home to nearly 270 species of birds and other reptiles, mammals, and amphibians. Take a relaxing walk at sunrise or sunset for one of the most beautiful views in the state.

There is also a hidden beach on the other side of the refuge where you can spend time alone reflecting or taking a stroll with a loved one.

Rehoboth Beach 

Ranked one of the top beaches in the nation, Rehoboth Beach is a charming beach town lined with colorful cottages, restaurants, and boutiques. Take a walk on the boardwalk, soak in the sun, or shop at Odysea for unique souvenirs. Go on a pontoon boat excursion, dolphin watch and gain access to the beach, free of charge.

Funland family amusement center offers several attractions, along with mini golf, bumper cars, water slides, and a lazy river. There is tax-free shopping at downtown Rehoboth Beach boutiques or Tanger Outlets. Treat yourself to a massage or pedicure at a local spa before you enjoy dinner at one of Rehoboth Beach’s hottest restaurants.

48 hours in Delaware: Chesapeake and Maine, Rehoboth Beach
48 hours in Delaware: fresh seafood at Chesapeake and Maine in Rehoboth Beach. Photo by Charles McCool

>>> Please see the McCool Travel article for Sensational Places to Eat in Delaware.

>>> Find more tips in the Fun in Fairfax VA article A Delaware Getaway to Discover the First State

Did you enjoy What to Do When You Only Have 48 Hours in Delaware?

Delaware may be one of the most underrated states in the country, but it sure does have a lot to offer for families, couples, and those who just want to get away. Whether you visit a wildlife refuge, swing through the trees at Lums Pond State Park, or soak in the sun on Rehoboth Beach—Delaware has lots of exciting adventures waiting for you.

Plan your stay. Check TripAdvisor reviews and availability for Wilmington hotels and Rehoboth Beach hotels now.

Article by Kacey Bradley. Kacey Bradley is the lifestyle and travel blogger for The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing, and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, Kacey frequently writes for sites like US Travel News, Thought Catalog, Style Me Pretty, Tripping.com, and more! Follow Kacey Bradley on Twitter and subscribe to her blog to keep up with her travels and inspiring posts!

48 Hours in Delaware: Kacey Bradley, The Drifter Collective
Kacey Bradley, The Drifter Collective

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2 thoughts on “What to Do When You Only Have 48 Hours in Delaware”

  1. No comment about having a pint (or two) at Dogfish Head?! I’d love to know more about the craft beer scene in the First State because that would be a fun road trip trying to see how long it takes to visit each brewery/taproom.

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