7 Affordable Destinations In Delaware For Budget Travelers

Want to explore Delaware, but you’re on a budget? Thankfully, there are tons of affordable destinations in this scenic mid-Atlantic state. This means that you can travel all over Delaware without breaking the bank.

Whether you prefer a relaxing beach vacation or a rustic camping trip, or you wish to visit a charming small town, you can do it in Delaware. Plus, this state is steeped in history and culture, so there will be lots to see and do no matter what parts of the state you choose to visit.

Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach is a lovely town to visit, especially if you’re on a budget. This charming resort town on the coast has tons of beaches, family-friendly activities, and budget-friendly accommodations. A few of the top beaches to visit include Deauville Beach, Poodle Beach, and Rehoboth Beach. Of course, you won’t want to miss taking a stroll along the vibrant boardwalk, where you will find tons of games, shops, and restaurants.

Getting to Rehoboth Beach is easy and affordable, thanks to DART’s Beach Bus. This seasonal service connects travelers from various locations in Delaware to the beach, making it a great option for those without a car. In terms of accommodation, there are several campgrounds in and around Rehoboth Beach, like Big Oaks Campground and Port Delmarva. There are also a number of cost-effective hotels, motels, and inns right in town, like the Atlantic Sands Hotel and Hotel Wave Rehoboth Beach.

Lums Pond State Park

Lums Pond State Park is as picturesque as it gets. South of Wilmington, near the town of Bear, Lums Pond is full of beautiful hikes, affordable campgrounds, and plenty of places to go fishing.

There are both RV campsites and tent sites at Lums Pond, and they range in price from $22 per night for a tent site to $37 a night for an RV site. There is also one yurt that starts at $51 per night. All in all, Lums Pond State Park is another economical place to visit in Delaware.

Most trails weave their way through the park, passing by the park’s namesake pond along the way. For example, locals love the Whale Wallow Loop, the Swamp Forest Trail, and the Little Jersey Trail. If you prefer spending time on the water, be sure to bring your fishing rod or your kayak or canoe, as these are also common pastimes here. While Lums Pond State Park doesn’t have direct public transit options, nearby Bear is served by buses, and rideshare services can connect you to the park.

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is the next destination that we recommend visiting while in Delaware. This historic site is a must-see at any time of year. It was formerly the home of Henry Francis du Pont, who was famous for his antique collection and horticulture skills.

Today, the estate has been turned into a museum, garden, and library that the public is invited to enjoy. Inside, the museum houses one of the largest collections of American artifacts in all of the United States.

Public transportation directly to Winterthur is limited; however, visitors can take DART bus routes from Wilmington to nearby stops and then use rideshare services to reach the museum.

Although you can’t stay right in Winterthur, there are plenty of nearby neighborhoods that you can find accommodations in. Winterthur is essentially a suburb of Wilmington, which means that you can find lots of different accommodations here, including Airbnb, hotels, and campgrounds, like the SureStay in Fairfax or the Days Inn in Brandywine.

Killens Pond State Park

Killens Pond State Park is a gorgeous park to visit in Delaware. If you’re into the great outdoors, then this is one of the top places to visit in the state. Plus, it’s cost-effective!

There are cabins, standard sites, and tent sites available in the park’s campground, and they vary in price, starting at $73, $28, and $22, respectively.

Once you’re all set up in your campsite, discover all this park has to offer, including a 66-acre pond. The best way to see the pond is by embarking on the Pondside Trail, which is 2.6 miles and loops through the park. Although there isn’t direct public transportation to Killens Pond State Park, you can reach nearby towns like Dover by bus and arrange a taxi or rideshare to the park.

Beyond hiking, you can also fish, canoe, kayak, and bird watch (native birds to the park include the woodpecker, prothonotary warbler, or barred owl). There are also guided hikes and kayaking tours that leave from the Nature Center during the summer months.

Newark

Newark is the next Delaware town that is worth checking out if you’re on a budget. It combines the best of both worlds - history and nature! It is near White Clay Creek State Park, as well as the Chambers House Nature Centre, which is a state park that has historical monuments dating back to the nineteenth century, as well as the Deerfield Golf and Tennis Club.

Other Newark attractions include Christiana Mall, Midnight Oil Brewing Company, and Aunt Margaret’s Antique Mall.

Depending on the time of year you visit, you might also be able to attend one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the area, Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest.

For those traveling without a car, Newark is a convenient destination. DART buses service the area, and SEPTA regional rail provides affordable access to nearby cities. There are several two-star hotel options in and around Newark, including the Quality Inn, the Ramada Newark/Wilmington, and the Baymont by Wyndham Newark.

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is another Delaware destination that budget travelers will love. It is on Delaware Bay and is home to one of the largest remaining expanses of tidal salt marsh in the area. The entire refuge spans 16,000 acres and features 12 miles of drivable roads, five hiking trails, and three observation towers.

This protected region was first established in the 1930s, and today, it is a haven for migratory birds, so if you love bird watching, this is a great place to do it. Bombay Hook is best accessed by car, as no public transportation directly serves the refuge.

Another reason to love Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge? It’s affordable to visit! An annual pass costs just $11. However, you can also buy a day pass for $1.50 if you’re walking or cycling in and $3.50 if you’re driving in. This is reasonable, even if you’re traveling with your entire family.

Trap Pond State Park

Trap Pond State Park is a beautiful yet budget-friendly destination in Delaware. If you’re traveling to the state in the spring, summer, or fall, consider staying at this scenic state park.

The park itself features over 12 miles of trails to explore on foot or even by bike, as well as an additional nine miles to discover by canoe or kayak. One of the most popular trails is the Bob Trail, which is 4.6 miles in length and takes you around Trap Pond. Bird watching and pontoon boating are also common activities in the park. Visitors should note that public transit does not reach Trap Pond State Park, so having your own vehicle or arranging a ride is necessary.

Even better, Trap Pond State Park offers overnight camping in either a tent of your own or one of their on-site cabins. Nightly cabin rates start at $63, while tent sites cost $22 per night.

Plan Your Budget-Friendly Delaware Getaway

It’s finally time to plan your Delaware vacation. As you can see, it’s not hard to visit this scenic and historic mid-Atlantic state, even if you’re on a budget. There are tons of charming, small towns and stunning state parks with attractions and activities to suit all travelers. Plus, between the different campgrounds, RV parks, inns, and economical hotels and motels all over the state, you can plan a trip on any budget. What are you waiting for? Head to any one of Delaware’s destinations today!