Delaware – the state that often gets forgotten on the map but is so much more than just a blip on the East Coast. It may be small, but its charm and quirks are bigger than you might think. If you’ve never quite figured out what makes Delaware so special, here are 10 things only true Delawareans will get (and probably won’t stop talking about, either).
We’re the First State, and we’ll never let you forget it
Delaware may be tiny, but we hold a major claim to fame—we were the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. That’s right, while other states are arguing over who’s the biggest or the most popular, we proudly wear our “First State” status on our sleeves. It’s a pretty big deal, and we’re happy to tell you about it, probably over a soft pretzel.
There’s more to Delaware than just tax-free shopping
Yes, Delaware is tax-free—don’t even get us started on that sales tax-free paradise that is any shopping mall in the state—but there’s way more to Delaware than just retail therapy. From historic landmarks to beautiful beaches, there’s a lot to explore in between your trips to the outlet malls.
We love our beaches, but don’t mess with the off-season
Delaware’s beaches are iconic—Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany—people flock here in the summer to relax by the ocean, but when the tourists leave, the locals reclaim their beloved coastlines. Off-season, it’s a whole different vibe: quiet, peaceful, and definitely not overrun by crowds. If you haven’t experienced Delaware’s beaches in the fall, you’re missing out.
You can’t escape the DuPont legacy
If you’ve ever driven through Delaware, you’ve probably noticed the DuPont name popping up everywhere. The DuPont family’s historical influence on this state is massive—from the world-famous chemical company to the gorgeous gardens and grand estates. Delawareans are fiercely proud of the DuPont legacy, and yes, we will point out the most iconic sites during your visit.
The Delaware River is basically our backyard
Whether it’s for kayaking, fishing, or just strolling along, the Delaware River is where we go for relaxation and recreation. The river isn’t just a landmark; it’s the heart of the state. If you haven’t had a quiet moment on the riverfront, you haven’t fully experienced Delaware.
Delaware’s festivals are surprisingly awesome
It might be small, but we sure know how to throw a festival. From the Firefly Music Festival to the Delaware State Fair, there’s always something going on. Don’t let the size fool you—Delaware knows how to pack a punch when it comes to fun events.
We’re the state where “small town” isn’t just a vibe—it’s a lifestyle
No matter where you are in Delaware, it’s hard not to feel the charm of small-town living. From the quaint towns like Lewes to the more bustling areas like Wilmington, Delaware is all about community and that warm, hometown feel. It’s not unusual to bump into someone you know at the grocery store, or at the beach, or even at the post office.
We take our crab cakes very seriously
Crab cakes are a big deal in Delaware, and we’ll be the first to tell you that no one does it better. Whether you prefer them spicy, crispy, or loaded with Old Bay, Delawareans have high standards when it comes to crab cakes—and we’re not afraid to turn down a mediocre one.
There’s a lot of pride in our “Delaware” accent
It’s not quite Philadelphia, it’s not quite Maryland—Delaware has its own accent that’s hard to place but easy to spot. Whether you’re picking up the local “Delmarva” lingo or trying to mimic that subtle twang, Delawareans will always sound like Delawareans. And yes, it’s definitely a thing.
We’ll definitely tell you about our historical firsts
From the first state to ratify the Constitution to the first American colony to have a separation of church and state, Delaware is proud of its place in U.S. history. It’s not just about the “First State” title—it’s about being a pioneer in ways that go far beyond what meets the eye. Expect to hear these fun facts over a coffee—or maybe a slice of scrapple.
Delaware may be small, but it’s packed with personality, history, and a whole lot of pride. From its peaceful beaches to its rich historical legacy, Delaware offers a unique vibe that’s hard to beat. So next time someone asks where Delaware is, just smile and tell them, “Oh, it’s the First State – and we’ve got more to offer than you think.”
