A true representation of mid-Atlantic charm, Delaware is known for its rich history, picturesque beaches, scenic countryside, and vibrant small towns. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or considering moving to the state, you may be wondering: What is Delaware known for?
From historical treasures and coastal beauty to unique cuisine, there’s a lot to explore in Delaware. Find out why living in Delaware is so charming, whether you’re buying a home in Wilmington, renting in Dover or just passing through.
A beacon of history and heritage
Delaware holds a distinguished place in American history as the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787, earning it the nickname “The First State.” Its history is preserved in many landmarks and museums.
- new castle: One of America’s oldest towns, Newcastle is a well-preserved gem with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture and the historic Newcastle Courthouse Museum.
- Dover: The state capital is home to First State Heritage Park and the Old State Capitol, which offer a glimpse into Delaware’s legislative history.
- Hagley Museum and Library: Located in Wilmington on the original site of the DuPont Gunpowder Factory, the museum explores the history of American industry and innovation.
Additionally, Delaware played a vital role during the American Revolution. The Delaware Regiment is known as the “Blue Hen” and is famous for its bravery. The state is dotted with Revolutionary War ruins, including the Battle of Couch Bridge, the only battle fought in Delaware.
Scenic natural beauty and outdoor activities
Beautiful beaches and coastal areas
Delaware’s coastline is a major draw, with pristine beaches and charming coastal towns.
- rehoboth beach: Often called the “Summer Capital of the Nation,” Rehoboth Beach is known for its boardwalk, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife.
- Bethany Beach: Bethany Beach is a quieter option, offering a peaceful getaway with amenities for all ages and beautiful oceanfront views.
- Cape Henlopen State Park: This park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, and historic Fort Myers.
Lush parks and nature reserves
Delaware’s interior is rich in natural beauty, from rolling hills to dense forests.
- brandywine river state park: Located near Wilmington, the park is an ideal place to hike, picnic, and explore the scenic Brandywine Valley.
- Trap Pond State Park: Trap Pond is one of the northernmost natural stands of bald cypress and offers opportunities for kayaking, bird watching, and camping.
- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: This reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with tidal salt marshes and home to a variety of wildlife.
Interesting facts: Trap Pond State Park is famous for its unique bald cypress swamp, a picturesque swamp often referred to as the “Delaware Cypress Swamp Garden.”
Vibrant community and cultural experiences
Small town charm and urban flair
Each town in Delaware offers unique character and cultural experiences.
- wilmington: As Delaware’s largest city, Wilmington is home to a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and the stunning Nemours Estate.
- Louis: Known as the “First Town in the First State,” Lewes has a rich maritime history and quaint streets lined with boutiques and restaurants.
- newark: Newark, home to the University of Delaware, is a vibrant college town with a bustling Main Street and beautiful campus.
Rich arts and festivals
Delaware’s cultural calendar is filled with events celebrating its heritage and creativity.
- Delaware Shakespeare Festival: This annual event brings Shakespeare’s works to life in unique outdoor settings across the state.
- rehoboth beach jazz festival: One of the premier jazz festivals on the East Coast, attracting music lovers from all over the country.
- Biggs Museum of American Art: Located in Dover, the museum houses a rich collection of American art from the 18th century to the present.
Good food and local flavor
Signature dishes and local favorites
Delaware’s culinary scene reflects its coastal heritage and diverse population.
- blue crab: Freshly caught from the Delaware Bay, blue crab is a local delicacy, often enjoyed as crab cakes or steamed with Old Bay seasoning.
- scramble: A traditional breakfast favorite, mincemeat is a pork bun fried until crispy and often served with eggs.
- peach pie: Delaware’s long history of growing peaches makes peach pie a beloved dessert, especially during the summer harvest season.
famous restaurant
From fine dining to casual dining, Delaware has restaurants to suit every taste.
Interesting facts: Delaware hosts the annual World Championship Smash Recipe Contest, where chefs and home cooks compete to create the most innovative and delicious Smash dishes.
Economic strength and innovation ability
A booming business environment
Despite its small size, Delaware is a powerhouse in business and finance.
- corporate paradise: Due to its favorable corporate laws and friendly business environment, Delaware is home to more than half of the public companies in the United States.
- agricultural contribution: Agriculture remains an important part of Delaware’s economy, with poultry farming and soybean production leading the way.
- Innovation Center: The state’s proximity to major cities like Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., as well as institutions like the University of Delaware, creates a great environment for research and innovation.
Delaware’s Leading Employer
Several large companies and institutions are the backbone of Delaware’s economy.
- dupont: DuPont is a legacy chemical company with deep roots in the state and remains a significant employer and innovator.
- Christina Cares: One of the largest health care systems in the state, offering comprehensive medical services.
- Bank of America: Bank of America, which has significant operations in Wilmington, is a major player in Delaware’s financial industry.
First-class education and research
Delaware is home to several respected educational institutions that drive research and innovation.
- University of Delaware: Known for its strong engineering, business, and science programs, the University of Delaware is a major academic and research center.
- delaware state university: A historically black university that excels in agricultural sciences and education.
- Goldie-Beacon Academy: A private college in Wilmington known for its business programs and intimate learning environment.
Delaware’s institutions and businesses are at the forefront of research fields ranging from agricultural science to biotechnology.
Popular Delaware Phrases
- “Beach Transportation”: A common complaint refers to traffic jams traveling to and from popular beach destinations in Delaware.
- “slower”: A term used by locals to describe the more relaxed pace of life in southern Delaware than in the northern part of the state.
- “Smashed Sandwich”: A favorite breakfast order, often served with ketchup or syrup.
- “Jianfa Canal”: Abbreviation for Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, the main waterway connecting the Delaware River to the Chesapeake Bay.
- “Delmarva Peninsula”: Refers to the region that includes parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.
More things Delaware is famous for
- Excellent Healthcare: Delaware has top-notch medical facilities and a strong focus on medical research and innovation.
- Environmental management: Delawareans are active in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
- Duty-free shopping: Delaware has no state sales tax, making it a popular destination for shoppers from nearby states.
- Agricultural heritage: Delaware’s rich agricultural tradition continues to thrive, contributing significantly to the state’s economy and its reputation as a major producer of poultry, soybeans and a variety of crops.
