Top Places To Visit In Delaware In The Fall

Delaware, known as "The First State" for its historical significance in ratifying the United States Constitution, may be modest in size, but its diverse landscapes come alive with vivid autumn colors during the fall. With its vast forests, national parks, and pristine coastline, Delaware is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking seasonal beauty. Discover some of the top destinations to explore in Delaware this fall. Grab your sweater and comfortable shoes and get ready to delve into the heart of autumn in the First State.

Brandywine Creek State Park

Brandywine Creek State Park provides a range of fall activities against a backdrop of vibrant autumn colors. Visitors can explore a network of forested trails that pass through old-growth forests, including Tulip Tree Woods and Flint Woods Preserve, which is the largest remaining old-growth hardwood forest in Delaware. The park also offers rolling meadows for leisure or disc golf. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, fishing, canoeing, or kayaking on Brandywine Creek or Wilson’s Run is available, with fishing requiring a license and trout stamp.

To reach Brandywine Creek State Park, take the I-95 to exit 8 (DE-202 South) and follow the signs to the park, which is just a short drive from Wilmington. The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown every day.

White Clay Creek State Park

White Clay Creek State Park, situated in Newark, Delaware, provides an enchanting fall retreat. The park encompasses extensive woodlands, creating an ideal setting to witness the seasonal transformation of the leaves. Its network of 16 trails winds through the park, each bordered by a variety of trees, including oak, beech, and maple. Families can take advantage of the large picnic area and pavilion for gatherings or casual barbecues with friends. The park also offers fishing opportunities in White Clay Creek and a par-3-disc golf course.

To reach White Clay Creek State Park from Interstate 95, take exit 1B onto DE-896 North and follow signs to the park. It's approximately 3 miles from the highway and easily accessible from the Newark area.

Lewes, Delaware

Lewes, Delaware, renowned as "The First Town in The First State," offers an educational experience for visitors at the historical Shipcarpenter Street Campus. The campus includes nine buildings, including the Old Doctor's Office (c. 1840), Midway School #178 (c. 1898), and the Blacksmith Shop (c. 1790). Guests can stroll along a tree-lined street with various species like rowan, silver birch, and field maple. Savannah Beach is another popular spot for an oceanfront walk or explore Cape Henlopen State Park, which offers a range of activities, from trail walking to dune exploration and visiting a WWII lookout tower at the park's edge.

Trap Pond State Park

Trap Pond State Park is in the southwestern part of Delaware near Laurel and offers a unique fall experience. Its most distinctive geographical feature is its stunning stand of bald cypress trees, which turn various shades of red and orange during the fall season, making it a popular spot for leaf-peeping. The park is renowned for its large, scenic pond surrounded by impressive trees, providing a reflective surface that magnifies the beauty of the surrounding forest. Visitors can also enjoy a range of fall activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking, or explore the pond by paddleboat, kayak, or canoe, taking in the scenery. Overlooking the pond, the park offers picnic spots, and group events can reserve one of the three pavilions. For those seeking some friendly competition, there are volleyball courts and horseshoe pits. Children can have a fun time at the playground complex, and visitors can also explore seasonal camping options and choose from various tent and RV sites.

The park is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. to sunset daily. There is a fee to enter.

Mt. Cuba Center

The Mt. Cuba Center is a nonprofit botanical garden offering a family-friendly and unique fall outing experience. The garden features extensive collections of native plants such as the Redbud, American Beautyberry, and native grasses, with their foliage changing to yellow, orange, brown, red, and even purple, magenta, and chartreuse.  Visitors can wander along walking trails and picturesque ponds. For those interested in an informative experience, the Garden Enthusiast Tour is available on the second Saturday of every month. Families with young children might opt for a more relaxed visit, freely exploring the gardens. Picnics are welcomed on the Upper Lawn, offering stunning views. Additionally, there are engaging scavenger hunts and Storytime in the Gardens.

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge stretches eight miles along Delaware Bay and hosts a rich array of wildlife habitats. The refuge offers an engaging 12-mile wildlife drive, five walking trails (including two mobility equipment accessible ones), and three observation towers for catching all the many colors of fall as leaves change. Visitors will find many opportunities for wildlife photography and an assortment of nature and educational programs.

To reach Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge from Wilmington, take I-95 South to DE-1 South. The refuge is about 43 miles from Lewes and 10 miles from Dover. The wildlife drive welcomes visitors starting half an hour before sunrise and ending half an hour after sunset. The visitor center maintains its schedule throughout the year, opening from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays and typically on Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., contingent on volunteer availability. There is a fee to enter.

As the autumn season covers Delaware in warm, earthy hues, these destinations stand ready to welcome visitors with their natural charm. Whether it is the lush woodlands of Brandywine Creek State Park, the historic allure of Lewes, the striking bald cypress trees at Trap Pond State Park, or the array of native plants at Mt. Cuba Center, the state offers a wide range of experiences for those seeking the quintessential essence of fall. So, venture out and savor the uncomplicated yet breathtaking beauty that Delaware presents this season.