Delaware, the First State, packs remarkable diversity into the nation's second-smallest state — from the cosmopolitan Wilmington riverfront and historic New Castle's cobblestone streets to the Victorian beach resort of Rehoboth Beach and the wild marshes of Cape Henlopen. Rich in colonial and Revolutionary War history, home to major corporate headquarters and the DuPont dynasty's legacy estates, and bordered by Atlantic beaches, Delaware rewards visitors who look beyond its modest size.
Luxury hotels
Five-star and palace properties.
Hotel du Pont
Delaware's most iconic luxury address — a 1913 French Renaissance grand hotel with marble lobbies, chandeliers, and the legendary Green Room restaurant; 11th & Market St, (302) 594-3100; room rates from $280/night
Inn at Montchanin Village
Romantic 11-room historic inn in a converted 19th-century workman's village adjacent to the former DuPont gunpowder mill corridor; Krazy Kat's restaurant on-site; 528 Montchanin Rd, (302) 888-2133; from $180/night
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel
The only full-service beachfront hotel directly on the Rehoboth boardwalk; rooftop spa, panoramic ocean views, Victorian design; 2 Olive Ave, (302) 227-7169; from $200/night (peak summer $350+)
Bellmoor Inn and Spa
Rehoboth's premier boutique spa inn; full-service spa, pools, garden suites, and complimentary breakfast; 6 Christian St, (302) 227-5800; from $220/night
Fine dining
Michelin-starred and chef-driven restaurants.