Looking for a fun day trip idea, a reason to get out of town or take a drive? Luckily, the area is within close proximity to so many great options for adventures and exploration.
Assateague Island National Seashore: Just a short drive from Delaware’s shores, Assateague is best known for inhabiting wild horses that roam free around the pristine beaches, marshes, bays and coves. Assateague is both a national and state park, with options for enjoying the sandy beaches, over-night camping, driving-on the beach or biking around the park.
Berlin: Just a few miles from Ocean City, take a step back in time in “America’s Coolest Small Town.” Walk down Main Street and stumble upon a variety of unique shops, from clothing boutiques to antiques stores. Charming restaurants line the downtown area for a romantic dinner or a quick bite. The food scene is complete with coffee shops, bakeries, butchers and seafood markets. To top off this funky town, there are several galleries, music venues and museums- a little something for everyone!
Lewes: With the slogan of “The First Town in the First State!” this quaint, walking town is sure to hold some history. Lewes is filled with savory restaurants, trendy boutiques, and historical museums. Wander along the scenic canal or hop on a bike and head to Cape Henlopen State Park. Here you will be overwhelmed with a combination of Delaware’s natural beauty and history. Explore all 7,000 acres of the park: from the sandy dunes, to the fishing pier, to the WWII towers- this park is a MUST see!
Trap Pond State Park: A short drive in-land, located in Laurel, DE, you’ll find over 3,600 acres of trails, wetlands, campgrounds, and ramps for launching kayaks, boats, and paddle boards. Trap Pond is home to the northernmost bald cypress tree, a natural habitat to great blue herons, owls, and woodpeckers. This state park is great for bird watchers, with frequent sightings of hummingbirds and bald eagles.
St. Michaels: About a 2-hour drive from Delaware’s beaches is Maryland’s Eastern Shore, home of several sophisticated small towns lining 600 miles of the Chesapeake Bay. One area in particular deserves a special highlight: St. Michaels. Situated on the picturesque harbor it’s no wonder why this was voted Top 10 Best Small Coastal Towns in America by USA Today. Whether it’s sailing along the Chesapeake, dining on fresh seafood in one of the charming restaurants, or shopping in the eclectic boutiques, St. Michael’s is the perfect place to get away, relax and unwind.