Celebrate America’s 250th in Delaware
About Delaware 250
As the First State to ratify the U.S. Constitution, Delaware holds a special place in America's 250th anniversary celebrations. Throughout 2026, Delaware’s rich history will be highlighted through events and activities that honor its pivotal role in American independence. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Old State House in Dover, Fort Christina in Wilmington, and the charming town of New Castle, where colonial heritage comes to life. From reenactments and parades to educational exhibits, Delaware’s 250th anniversary celebration will reflect the state’s contributions to the founding of the United States while offering unique experiences to connect with its past and envision the future.
To find information on upcoming events or news about Delaware's 250th plans, please visit the Delaware 250 website. For assistance with customized group itineraries and to receive complimentary group welcome gifts, contact Tina.Madanat@delaware.gov.
A suggested itinerary for Delaware's 250th anniversary celebration, focusing on historic locations:
Day 1: Wilmington and New Castle
- Morning: Visit Old New Castle
- First State National Historical Park: Explore Delaware's colonial history, including the New Castle Court House Museum, a key site in Delaware's move towards independence.
- Amstel House & Dutch House: Tour these historic homes for a glimpse into 18th-century life.
- Lunch: Historic New Castle
- Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, perhaps at Jessop's Tavern, offering colonial-inspired fare.
- Afternoon: Wilmington
- Hagley Museum and Library: Learn about the du Pont family’s role in the Industrial Revolution and tour the original DuPont gunpowder mills.
- Delaware History Museum: Dive into Delaware’s rich history, from its founding to the present day.
- Nemours Estate: Built in 1910 by Alfred I. duPont, explore the elegance of a 77-room mansion, a chauffeur's garage with vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of French-inspired formal gardens, grounds and woodlands.
- Evening: Riverfront Wilmington
- Stroll along the Riverfront, enjoy dinner, and consider catching a Blue Rocks minor league baseball game if they’re playing.
Jessop's Tavern in Historic New Castle
Day 2: Dover and Smyrna
- Morning: Explore Historic Dover
- First State Heritage Park: Visit the sites connected to Delaware's government and its role in the American Revolution, including the Old State House.
- John Dickinson Plantation: Explore the home of one of Delaware's Founding Fathers.
- Lunch: Downtown Dover
- Grab lunch at a local café or restaurant in the historic downtown area.
- Afternoon: Smyrna and Odessa
- Smyrna Museum: Learn about local history and its connection to the state's development.
- Historic Odessa: Tour one of Delaware’s oldest structures, the Collins-Sharp House, and explore this charming town's history.
- Evening: Middletown
- Enjoy dinner in Middletown, and if time permits, catch a performance at the Everett Theatre, a historic venue.
The Old State House in Dover, including Darley Newman from Travels with Darley
Day 3: Lewes and Rehoboth Beach
- Morning: Historic Lewes
- Zwaanendael Museum: Explore Delaware's Dutch heritage and the founding of one of the oldest towns in the state.
- Lewes Historical Society Complex: Visit historic homes and learn about the maritime history of the area.
- Lunch: Downtown Lewes
- Enjoy seafood at a local restaurant, like Lewes Oyster House.
- Afternoon: Rehoboth Beach
- Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: Stroll the boardwalk, explore shops, and enjoy the beach.
- Indian River Life-Saving Station: Visit this historic site to learn about Delaware’s coastal rescue history.
- Evening: Rehoboth Beach
- Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant and watch the sunset over the Atlantic.
Tours and strolls through Historic and Downtown Lewes
