Before the weather gets too cold, it’s a great idea to think about a fall getaway from your home in Delaware. You have lots of options here, depending on your interests. Do you want a place that features some of the lovely fall colors? Prefer to find a beach for a little outdoor enjoyment while you can? Browsing resorts in Delaware for a place to rest and refresh? You don’t have to compromise. With this list, you will discover many popular locations where you can experience everything on your fall activity wishlist.
Where to Go for a Weekend in Delaware?
A weekend getaway is your opportunity to step away from the bustle of life and connect with nature, your family, and the community. We’ve put together a list of our favorites, but you don’t have to choose just one. You could dedicate a few weekends to the effort and see them all.
Cape Henlopen State Park
On the southern tip of Delaware Bay, you’ll find Cape Henlopen State Park. Reserve your spot early, as camping in Cape Henlopen State Park is a very popular fall activity. The park has miles of beaches, but you can fill a whole weekend with activities here. Take a tour through the World War II coastal defense area, perfect for kids and military buffs. If you like to bike through the cool weather, loop the park or take the Gordons Pond Trail. The park is also a perfect place for walking on the boardwalk or fishing off the pier.
Dewey Beach
Although Dewey Beach ranks among the best Delaware beach vacations, you won’t just love it for the sun and sand. This beach village fills up to the maximum with opportunities to suit almost any personality, from music festivals to outdoor movies. During the fall, stay inside to enjoy the nightlife or head to Delaware Seashore State Park for intimate bonfires and picnics on the beach. Locals love free parking from September 16th to May 14th. The Bay Resort has a private cove with plenty of activities to keep you busy in any season. Request a bayside room for stunning views of the area.
Rehoboth Beach
Not far from Dewey Beach, Rehoboth Beach feels like the coastal town you’d see in a movie. There are plenty of great things to do in Rehoboth Beach in the off-season. This town has miles of great beaches, with a classic boardwalk perfect for shopping, dining, or walking. While you’re there, consider staying at The Bellmoor Inn and Spa. You can enjoy rooms that are redesigned for modern comforts without losing any of the coastal charm. You’ll be just a couple of blocks away from the beach, but you can also find plenty of relaxation opportunities at the hotel.
Lewes
Not far from Cape Henlopen State Park, swing over to the historic city of Lewes. Lewes sits on one of the first European settlements in the region, as early as the 1630s. There are lots of fun things to do near Lewes, Deleware. You will find a balance of modern convenience and old-style splendor. Take a stroll down the quiet streets and do a little window shopping while you find an excellent place to have lunch. It’s an easy walk to Lewes Beach, ideal for fishing or boating. You might want to consider staying at the Hotel Rodney, a Lewes institution for almost 100 years.
New Castle
Consider a visit to New Castle, a town with deep colonial roots and beautiful, well-preserved architecture. The historic district is perfect for a leisurely walk, with cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. The town’s proximity to the Delaware River also offers lovely waterfront views and opportunities for peaceful riverside walks.
Nearby Fall Getaways in Pennsylvania
Kennett Square, PA
Known as the "Mushroom Capital of the World," Kennett Square is a charming borough in Chester County that offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you're visiting in the fall, don't miss the Mushroom Festival, held every September. This festival celebrates the town's rich heritage with mushroom-centric food, tours, and activities. Beyond the festival, Kennett Square is home to Longwood Gardens, one of the most stunning botanical gardens in the country.
Chadds Ford, PA
Located in the scenic Brandywine Valley, Chadds Ford is steeped in American history and is an ideal destination for a peaceful fall getaway. The town is closely associated with the Wyeth family of artists, and a visit to the Brandywine River Museum of Art offers a glimpse into their works, along with stunning views of the Brandywine Creek. If you're a history buff, take a trip to the nearby Brandywine Battlefield Park, where you can learn about the pivotal battle during the American Revolution.
West Chester, PA
West Chester is a lively borough with a vibrant downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and historic sites. It's particularly charming in the fall when the streets are lined with colorful foliage. West Chester’s Fall Gallery Walk is a must-see event where local artists showcase their work in various galleries and shops. For those who enjoy a bit of history, the American Helicopter Museum offers a unique experience, or you can explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds the town. West Chester is also close to Brandywine Valley Wine Trail, making it an excellent base for a weekend of wine tasting.
When you’re done with your fall getaway, it may be time to plan a holiday activity. Here are a few great places to see Christmas lights in Delaware.
Top Fall Activities Near Delaware
-
Leaf Peeping: Enjoy the vibrant fall foliage by taking a scenic drive or hike through the Brandywine Valley, Cape Henlopen State Park, or any of the breathtaking scenic outlooks in the area.
-
Apple Picking: Visit local orchards for apple picking. Many offer hayrides, cider tastings, and homemade apple treats.
-
Pumpkin Patches: Spend an afternoon at a pumpkin patch, where you can pick the perfect pumpkin, explore corn mazes, and enjoy family-friendly activities.
-
Wine Tasting: Explore the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail for wine tastings and tours of beautiful vineyards surrounded by fall colors.
-
Hayrides and Bonfires: Join a farm hayride or host a beach bonfire at Dewey Beach with a permit, perfect for cool autumn evenings.
-
Ghost Tours: Experience the spooky side of history with ghost tours in historic towns like New Castle, DE, or Chadds Ford, PA.
-
Farmers Markets: Visit local farmers markets for fresh produce, homemade goods, and seasonal treats like apple cider donuts.
-
Bird Watching: Cape Henlopen and Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge are prime spots for birdwatching as many species migrate during the fall.
-
Camping: Enjoy the cooler weather by camping at locations like Cape Henlopen State Park or Indian River Inlet Campground.
-
Oktoberfest Celebrations: Find local Oktoberfest events featuring traditional German food, music, and, of course, beer.
-
Fishing: Fall is a great time for fishing along Delaware's coast or in the region's many rivers and lakes.
-
Harvest Festivals: Participate in harvest festivals that celebrate the end of the growing season with food, entertainment, and community activities.
-
Historical Reenactments: Attend historical reenactments that bring the past to life, often set against the backdrop of beautiful fall scenery.
-
Photography: Capture the beauty of fall with a photography outing, focusing on landscapes, wildlife, and the rich colors of autumn.
-
Fall Foliage Train Rides: Take a scenic train ride through the countryside to enjoy the fall colors without the effort of hiking or driving.
-
Cider Tastings: Visit local cideries to taste a variety of apple ciders, often paired with seasonal foods.
-
Art Shows and Craft Fairs: Explore local art shows and craft fairs that pop up during the fall, showcasing the work of regional artists and artisans.
Looking for other things to do in Delaware? We’ve got a handy list for you.
Must-Attend Fall Festivals Near Wilmington, DE
As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, fall festivals in Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania offer a perfect way to celebrate the season. Here are some must-attend fall festivals for 2024 and beyond.
Rehoboth Beach Sea Witch Festival (Rehoboth Beach, DE)
Date: October 25-27
One of the most beloved fall events in Delaware, the Sea Witch Festival in Rehoboth Beach features a lively parade, costume contests, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities. This festival is a Halloween highlight for the entire state, drawing visitors from all over to enjoy the festive atmosphere along the boardwalk.
Delaware Beer, Wine & Spirits Festival (Dover, DE)
Date: October 19
A celebration of Delaware’s craft beverages, this festival brings together breweries, wineries, and distilleries from across the state. Held at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, the event offers tastings, live music, and food trucks, making it a perfect outing for adults who enjoy local flavors.
Brandywine Festival of the Arts (Wilmington, DE)
Date: September 7-8
This annual festival in Wilmington showcases the work of over 200 artists and craftspeople from across the region. Held in Brandywine Park, the festival also features live music, food vendors, and activities for kids.
Kennett Square Mushroom Festival (Kennett Square, PA)
Date: September 7-8
Celebrate Kennett Square's title as the "Mushroom Capital of the World" at this unique festival. The Mushroom Festival includes a street fair, cooking demonstrations, mushroom farm tours, and plenty of mushroom-inspired dishes to try. It’s a quirky and fun event that draws thousands of visitors each year.
Apple Scrapple Festival (Bridgeville, DE)
Date: October 11-12
A true taste of Delaware’s local culture, the Apple Scrapple Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with apple-themed treats and the famous scrapple. The festival includes a car show, carnival rides, live entertainment, and plenty of delicious food, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
Bromwell Designs and Builds Your Wilmington, Delaware, and Southern Pennsylvania Remodel
When you return home from your fall getaway, it’s wonderful to see a home that is always ready to meet your needs. Fall is a great time to think about remodeling so that you continue to love your home in the years to come. At Bromwell Construction Company, we have decades of experience in residential remodeling. To get started on your renovation project, request an estimate today. We're looking forward to the perfect season to create your dream renovation.
