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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesEast USADelawareDelaware River Panoramic Road
In Delaware

Delaware River Panoramic Road

Wilmington - New Castle - Woodland Beach - Dover

Expect on your itinerary

Security Security
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Delaware River Panoramic Road ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km96 h/stage0.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Delaware River Panoramic Road in Delaware?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 45EUR drive & more 13EUR sleep & more 77EUR eat & more 72EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 162EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 207EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 54EUR drive & more 13EUR sleep & more 121EUR eat & more 108EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 242EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 296EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 90EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 198EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 367EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 457EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 225EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 55EUR eat & more 72EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 377EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Delaware River Panoramic Road Itinerary

The Delaware River Panoramic Road is a beautiful 96 km drive from Wilmington to Dover, United States. This road trip offers a stunning view of the Delaware River and its surrounding countryside. It is best enjoyed during the summer months, when the countryside is in full bloom and the temperatures are mild. The road trip starts in Wilmington, a historic city with plenty of attractions, including the Riverfront Wilmington, the Delaware Art Museum, and the Hagley Museum and Library. From there, the road takes you to New Castle, a charming small town with a rich history and plenty of attractions, including the New Castle Court House Museum, the Amstel House, and the Dutch House. The road then continues to Woodland Beach, a picturesque small town located on the banks of the Delaware River. Here, you can take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the view of the river and its surrounding landscape. The final destination is Dover, the capital of Delaware. Here, you can visit the Air Mobility Command Museum and the Legislative Hall, as well as the First State Heritage Park. The Delaware River Panoramic Road is a great road trip for drivers of all levels of experience. It can be enjoyed on a moderate budget and can be completed in one day. The route is well-maintained and in good condition, making it an enjoyable and safe journey.
number of days 1 number of days
route length 96 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Wilmington

Distance 96 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: modest 24.9 kWh Airports ILG , PHL
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Wilmington, located in the state of Delaware in the United States, is a perfect starting point for the "Delaware River Panoramic Road" road trip. Wilmington is one of the oldest cities in the United States, and its history and beautiful architecture will make your visit worthwhile. From the awe-inspiring Grand Opera House to the elegant Nemours Mansion and Gardens, you will be able to explore many fascinating places. The city is also home to the historic Hagley Museum and Library, the Delaware Art Museum, and the Delaware Children's Museum. For those interested in outdoor activities, Wilmington has many parks and trails as well as Longwood Gardens and the Brandywine Zoo. The closest international airport for travelers coming from abroad is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to get to Wilmington and start your road trip. Wilmington is a great place to start your journey along the "Delaware River Panoramic Road". With its history, culture, and outdoor activities, you will find plenty of things to do and see here.

1 Wilmington - New Castle

Distance 11 km Driving time 0.3 h Pace: modest 2.8 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues junction of road trips accommodation options interesting  historic site
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Welcome to the Wilmington to New Castle road trip stage! This 7 mile journey will take you less than an hour and is a part of a larger tour, so make sure you enjoy it to the fullest! Start your trip in Wilmington, where you can visit the Hagley Museum and Library, a former gunpowder factory turned museum that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, you can explore the Delaware Art Museum, featuring American art from the 19th century to present day. Continue your journey to New Castle, where you can visit the New Castle Court House Museum, the oldest surviving courthouse in the United States. You can also explore the historic district of New Castle, a National Historic Landmark District that features buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Make sure to keep your eyes open while you are on the road, as there are many historical sites that you can explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

2 New Castle - Woodland Beach

Distance 61 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: modest 15.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from New Castle to Woodland Beach! This 38mi road trip will take you less than an hour to complete, and you’ll be able to take in the scenic views of the countryside along the way. First, you’ll be passing through the historic town of New Castle, where you can explore the city’s rich history and culture. Be sure to take a stroll along the Delaware River, and visit the New Castle Court House Museum to learn more about the town’s past. As you continue your journey, you’ll be passing through the charming town of Townsend, where you can stop to enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. Finally, you’ll arrive in Woodland Beach, a small beach community located along the Delaware Bay. Here, you can take a walk along the beach, or take a boat ride to explore the area. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, this road trip has something for everyone. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Happy travels!

3 Woodland Beach - Dover

Distance 24 km Driving time 0.5 h Pace: modest 6.2 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues junction of road trips accommodation options
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Are you ready for a fun and exciting road trip from Woodland Beach to Dover? This 15mi journey will take you less than an hour, so you can enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride. Start your journey in Woodland Beach and explore the beaches of Delaware Bay. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and admire the stunning views of the bay and its wildlife. If you are looking for a more adventurous activity, you can try kayaking or fishing. Continue your journey to Dover, the capital of Delaware. Visit the Delaware State Capitol, the Legislative Hall, and the Old State House. You can also explore the Air Mobility Command Museum, the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, and the John Dickinson Plantation. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a fun and exciting road trip from Woodland Beach to Dover!

  Dover

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Dover, Delaware is a great end point for a road trip along the Delaware River Panoramic Road. This small city is home to some of the most interesting attractions in the state. One of the most popular attractions in Dover is the Delaware State Capitol. This stunning building is home to the state legislature and is the oldest working capitol in the nation. The city also has a number of historical sites, including the First State Heritage Park, a living history park that offers guided tours of the city’s past. Dover is also home to the Air Mobility Command Museum, a great place to explore the history of air mobility. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays of aircraft, flight equipment, and uniforms. For those looking for outdoor activities, Dover has a number of parks and recreational areas, including Silver Lake Park, which offers swimming, fishing, and other outdoor activities. For travelers coming to Dover by air, the closest international airport is the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Dover is located approximately an hour and a half drive from the airport. With its many attractions and its close proximity to Philadelphia, Dover is the perfect ending point for a road trip along the Delaware River Panoramic Road.

Delaware River Panoramic Road at a glance

Before you set off

The Delaware River Scenic Byway, also known as Route 9, is a tranquil and visually stunning 96 km (60-mile) drive that stretches from Wilmington to Dover in the United States. This designated scenic byway hugs the Delaware River and winds through a landscape rich with American history, lush greenery, and charming river towns. It is a journey that offers not only picturesque views but also a chance to step back in time and explore the early colonial roots of the nation.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Wilmington: As your starting point, take the time to immerse yourself in the cultural hub of Riverfront Wilmington, where you can enjoy dining, entertainment, and riverwalks. Don't miss the Delaware Art Museum, known for its collection of British Pre-Raphaelite art, and the Hagley Museum and Library, where you can learn about the industrial legacy of the DuPont family.
  • New Castle: This historic town is like a living museum with its well-preserved colonial architecture. The New Castle Court House Museum, Amstel House, and the Dutch House are must-visit sites that offer a glimpse into 17th-century life.
  • Woodland Beach: Stop here for a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk, where the serene river views can be a tranquil interlude during your drive.
  • Dover: The state capital boasts several attractions such as the Air Mobility Command Museum, showcasing vintage aircraft, Legislative Hall, the seat of Delaware's government, and the First State Heritage Park, which highlights Dover's historical significance.

Best Time to Go:

While the byway can be enjoyed year-round, the best time to embark on this Road Trip is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. The summer months are ideal for witnessing the full glory of the river and the surrounding countryside in bloom.

Potential Risks:

The route is scenic and generally presents a safe driving experience. However, it's always important to stay alert for weather-related issues such as fog or rain and occasional traffic, particularly around Wilmington and Dover.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • This journey is easily manageable within a single day, but there are ample opportunities for detours and extended stays.
  • The scenic byway is suitable for drivers of all skill levels, with clear signage and well-maintained Roads.
  • The Trip is budget-friendly, with many free or low-cost attractions along the route.
  • The consistent maintenance of the Road ensures a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

Interesting Facts:

  • The Delaware River is one of the major rivers on the Atlantic coast of the United States, with historical significance dating back to the early colonial times and the American Revolution.
  • The region is part of the Atlantic Flyway, a major migratory path for birds, making it a fantastic spot for bird watching, especially at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Dover.
  • Delaware's nickname, `The First State,` stems from it being the first to ratify the United States Constitution on December 7, 1787.
  • The C Canal, near the northern end of the byway, is one of the busiest canals in the world, connecting the Delaware River to the Chesapeake Bay.

A good choice for:

The Delaware River Scenic Byway is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. It offers a compelling journey through the heart of the First State, where every mile tells a story and every turn reveals a new vista or a piece of America's past. It's an ideal getaway for anyone looking to combine the pleasures of a Scenic Drive with the allure of history and the tranquility of nature.

Facts for safer driving in Delaware

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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