First-rate attractions in America ’ s first state
COMPASS
Mid-Atlantic U . S .
COMPILED BY GABE WEBB
First-rate attractions in America ’ s first state
Delaware may be one of the smallest U . S . states ( in square miles and population ), but it brings plenty of natural , historical and culinary attractions to the , well , table .
Dogfish Head in Milton is a craft brewery that offers tours of its operation and tastings in a steampunk-inspired treehouse . Groups can dine at the brewery or check out the Dogfish Brewpub in nearby Rehoboth Beach . Travelers might also imbibe at Nassau Valley Vineyards , 16 Mile Brewing Company , Painted Stave Distilling and the Delaware Distilling Company .
The state ’ s many coastal communities are prime destinations for sun and sand , and each has its own personality . Rehoboth
Beach is known for its relaxed vibe , boardwalk and artistic shops and boutiques . Dewey Beach offers lively entertainment in the form of bayside clubs and music venues . Delaware Seashore State Park allows visitors to experience unspoiled nature .
Student groups can learn about Colonial America during a visit to New Castle and its historical courthouse . On guided tours of the New Castle Court House Museum , groups will learn about the area ’ s European settlers , Delaware ’ s ascension to statehood and the role the state played in the founding of the U . S . Half-hour and hour-long guided walks of the New Castle Historic District are also available .
“ Delaware is known for some of the finest mansions and gardens on the East Coast ,” says Tina Madanat , group tour development leader for the Delaware Tourism Office . “ Winterthur is the most prominent .” The mansion is the former estate of Henry Francis du Pont , and it is now Winterthur Museum , Garden and Library , dedicated to exhibiting American decorative arts . The estate covers more than 60 acres , which include picturesque gardens .
For more on these and other Delaware attractions , contact Madanat at tina . madanat @ state . de . us or go to visitdelaware . com .
VISITDELAWARE . COM
40 June 2017