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Delaware, known as the First State, is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It's the country's second smallest state by area and has just under 1 million residents. Despite its small size, Delaware boasts a rich history and culture all its own. To learn more about this fascinating place, keep reading for an in-depth look at Delaware's history, attractions, economy, and resources for visitors and residents.

Delaware History

The area now known as Delaware was first settled by European colonists in 1638 when Peter Minuit from the Dutch West India Company established a colony there. The Duke of York took control in 1664 before William Penn gained control and named it the "Lower Counties on the Delaware." Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on December 7, 1787, earning it the nickname "The First State." It was a slave state before eventually joining the Union during the Civil War. During the 20th century, Delaware's economy shifted from agriculture to chemical research, finance, and technology. Major chemical and pharmaceutical companies like DuPont and AstraZeneca established headquarters in the state. To learn more about Delaware's history, check out the Delaware Public Archives.

Delaware Attractions

Despite being the country's second smallest state, Delaware offers many attractions for visitors:

Beaches - Delaware has dozens of beaches along its Atlantic coastline, including popular spots like Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach. The beaches have soft sand, beach boardwalks, restaurants, and activities like surfing.
State Parks - Delaware has several beautiful state parks perfect for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and exploring nature. Top parks include Cape Henlopen State Park, White Clay Creek State Park, and Lums Pond State Park.
Historic Attractions - Learn about Delaware's history by visiting places like Fort Christina, where the colony of Delaware was founded. There's also the stately Hagley Museum which includes the original DuPont family home.
Casinos and Racetracks - Delaware's casinos and thoroughbred racetracks offer exciting gambling, dining, and entertainment options. Top spots include Dover Downs Hotel & Casino and Delaware Park Racetrack.
Tax-free shopping - Delaware doesn't have sales tax on most items, making it a great place for bargain hunters! Major shopping centers include Christiana Mall, Concord Mall, and Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach.

Click here for the Delaware Tourism Office to learn more about things to do across the state.

Delaware Economy and Business

Some key facts about Delaware's economy:

The gross state product is estimated at around $77 billion.
The median household income is $68,287.
Top industries include finance, insurance, real estate, retail trade, healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism.
Major companies headquartered in Delaware include DuPont, Chemours, Navient, Sallie Mae, and Christiana Care Health System.

DuPont, the giant chemical company, is arguably the most famous Delaware business. It was founded in Delaware in 1802 as a gunpowder mill and grew into a Fortune 500 company. Other major employers in the state include Christiana Care Health System, Amazon, JPMorganChase, Wilmington University, and Dover Air Force Base. The Delaware Division of Small Business provides resources and assistance for small businesses in the state looking to grow and create jobs. For more on Delaware's economy, check out the Delaware Economic Development Overview published by the state government.

Transportation in Delaware

Here's an overview of transportation options within Delaware:

Airports - The largest airport is Philadelphia International Airport, which is partially located in Delaware. There are also several smaller regional airports like Wilmington Airport and Dover Air Force Base.
Roads and Highways - Major highways include I-95, I-495, and Route 1. Delaware has the 11th highest concentration of roads in the nation.
Rail - Amtrak provides intercity rail service. The SEPTA Wilmington/Newark Line provides commuter rail service within the northern part of the state.
Bus - DART First State provides public bus service throughout Delaware. There is no passenger rail service within the state.

The Delaware Department of Transportation oversees planning, construction, and maintenance for all transportation infrastructure in the state.

Visiting Delaware

Here are some key resources if you're planning a trip to Delaware:

Delaware Tourism Office - Official state tourism website with info on attractions, events, deals, and more. Phone: 1-866-2VISIT-DE.
Delaware State Parks - Guide for planning an outdoor adventure at one of Delaware's beautiful state parks. Main office phone: 302-739-9200.
Downtown Wilmington - Events, shopping, dining and more in Delaware's largest city and cultural hub.
Visit Delaware Facebook - Follow the state's official tourism page for news and travel inspiration.

Top Delaware Landmarks

Here are some of the must-see landmarks in Delaware:

Cape Henlopen Lighthouse (38° 46' 21.096'' N 75° 05' 44.544'' W) - This historical lighthouse was built in 1761 to guide ships entering Delaware Bay. It stands near the iconic Cape Henlopen Point. Address: Cape Henlopen State Park, 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958.
Hagley Museum (39° 47' 31.8'' N 75° 36' 19.8'' W) - This site includes the original gunpowder mills founded by the DuPont company in 1802 along the Brandywine River. 235 Hagley Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807.
Delaware Art Museum (39° 44' 58.68'' N 75° 33' 48.48'' W) - This museum in Wilmington houses an acclaimed collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, Brandywine River School landscapes, and illustrations by Howard Pyle. 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806.

Education in Delaware

Public education in Delaware is managed by 19 school districts across the state's three counties - New Castle, Kent, and Sussex. Some of the largest school districts include:

Brandywine School District (302-793-5000)
Caesar Rodney School District (302-698-4800)
Capital School District (302-857-4200)
Christina School District (302-454-2200)

Delaware is also home to several major colleges and universities, including the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Delaware Technical Community College, and Goldey-Beacom College. Over 87% of Delaware adults hold a high school degree or higher, while 33% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Education Week ranked Delaware's public school system 7th best in the nation.

More Delaware Resources

Here are more useful resources if you live in or are visiting Delaware:

Delaware Division of Libraries - Find your local Delaware library branch here.
Wilmington Blue Bombers - Semi-pro football team in Wilmington.
Delaware News - Official state news and announcements.
Delaware Public Archives - Preserving Delaware history.
City of Philadelphia - Delaware sits along the northeast border of Pennsylvania and is part of the Greater Philadelphia metro area.
City of New Castle, DE - New Castle is the capital of Delaware.

Top 10 Most Populous Cities in Delaware

Delaware Petition Jobs

Delaware History

Delaware Attractions

Delaware Economy and Business

Transportation in Delaware

Visiting Delaware

Top Delaware Landmarks

Education in Delaware

More Delaware Resources

Top 10 Most Populous Cities in Delaware

1. Wilmington

2. Dover

3. Newark

4. Middletown

5. Smyrna

6. Milford

7. Seaford

8. Georgetown

9. Newark

10. Laurel