Hotels in Delaware: From Luxe to Laid Back

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Whether getting there by car, train, or plane, Delaware’s beauty awaits! Photo credit: Moonloop Photography

From historic city venues, to coastal retreats, to Brandywine Valley treasures, hotels in Delaware accommodate a variety of travel styles. Looking to stay somewhere memorable? Check out the historic hotels and boutique gems of Wilmington, Dover and the Brandywine Valley. Seeking a luxury beach getaway, or a casual coastal hotel? Our beach picks have you covered. Want to use points or add points with a familiar chain? We have that list too.

Looking for a stand-out choice, worth the splurge? Consider the justly famous Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, the one-of-a-kind historic Inn at Montchanin Village or the elegant-relaxed Bellmoor Inn & Spa of Rehoboth Beach.

Read on for our full list of the most intriguing hotels in Delaware and then check out our list of unique places to visit in Delaware and fun things to do in Delaware on your vacation.

Inn at Montchanin Village

528 Montchanin Road
Montchanin, DE 19710

I loved my stay at this hotel so much that I can’t wait for a reason to go back! Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Wilmington, the Inn at Montchanin Village lets you savor the historic and bucolic sides of the Brandywine Valley. The hotel’s lovely grounds and period-decorated rooms transported me in ways that chain hotels—for all their virtues—simply can’t.

The Inn at Montchanin offers a special experience for many reasons:

  • Close proximity to key attractions like Winterthur Museum, Gardens, and Library and the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science. (Think museums are too stodgy? Check out the fairy-inspired Enchanted Woods at Winterthur!)
  • Excellent, festive onsite dining at popular Krazy Kat’s.
  • If you can book one of the suites, you’re in for a fabulous treat where luxe-meets-historic charm. Marble bathrooms? Beverage area? Stone walls and four-poster beds? How often do you get to enjoy those kinds of features?! An inn for the travel record books.

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Bellmoor Inn and Spa

6 Christian St.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

“Luxury and elegance” are the descriptors that pop up for this upscale option two blocks from the Rehoboth beach. With rooms this nice and comforting, I’m not sure I’d ever make it to the boardwalk. The Bellmoor’s location and style offers the possibility of being in the heart of it all at Rehoboth while still crafting a truly restorative getaway.

The hotel amenities list is introduced with the tagline “Complete Indulgence” and—let’s be honest—don’t we all want that once in a while? Niceties include:

  • A family-friendly AND adult-only outdoor pool
  • On-site spa (hence the hotel’s name!)
  • Complimentary breakfast and “afternoon refreshments”
  • Hot tub
  • Drive an electric car? Charging station available!

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The interior lobby of the Hotel DuPont
For a classic-luxe stay, the Hotel DuPont won’t disappoint! Photo credit: Greater Wilmington CVB

Hotel DuPont

42 W. 11th St.
Wilmington, DE 19801

The Hotel DuPont opened in 1913 as a celebrated grand hotel in the tradition of high European hospitality and elegance. At one point the headquarters for the DuPont Company, the hotel is now a world-recognized architectural and historic landmark. It’s a great home base for exploring all the fun things to do in Wilmington.

Described as offering guests “approachable luxury,” the “ooh & ahh!” factor of this Gilded Age gem matches the price tag to stay here. If you have the means—and if old-school opulence suits your fancy—look no further than this luxury hotel marvel.

The Hotel DuPont’s selling points include:

  • Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, you can explore top-notch restaurants, museums, and other attractions right out the lobby door.
  • Need to hunker down for some pampered R&R in a gorgeous environment? The Hotel DuPont has multiple onsite dining options, day spa services, a fitness center and an array of standard amenities to ensure your stay is both invigorating and restorative.
  • Did I mention the Gilded Age elegance? To roam the gathering spaces and halls of this hotel is to be transported to a different time and aesthetic. Truly one-of-a-kind!

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The Avenue Inn and Spa

33 Wilmington Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Rehoboth Beach is the quintessential Delaware location. The beach, the boardwalk, the whole Mid-Atlantic kit and caboodle comes together here, especially in the summer high season. And the Avenue Inn and Spa is the place to celebrate all of that.

With a variety of room configurations to fit every size of travel party, this highly sought-after hotel is all about location, reputation and overall beach vacation ease. Once you show up at The Avenue, you could go a week without needing your car again, becoming a beach and boardwalk sun and fun junkie.

Lots of perks come with The Avenue Inn:

  • Beach shuttle during high season
  • Complimentary breakfast
  • Daily wine and cheese reception 5-6 PM
  • Beach towels and chairs
  • Indoor pool for the littles
  • On-site, relaxed foodie restaurant The Blue Hen

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Exterior of Causey Mansion in summertime
Wow factor is big when you first see Causey Mansion! Photo credit: Causey Mansion Bed & Breakfast

Causey Mansion

2 Causey Ave.
Milford, DE 19963

This 1763 Greek Revival, Georgian mansion offers an unforgettable setting for your Delaware visit. Choose from its Sussex, Kent and New Castle suites, each decorated in a distinctive style. Hotel features include:

  • 3+ acres of garden and park-like grounds to relax in
  • 10% discount for Active and Retired Military, AARP Members, First Responders, Teachers and all repeat customers!

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Hotel Rodney

142 Second St.
Lewes, DE, 19958

Built in 1926 and located in the center of historic downtown Lewes, the Hotel Rodney is a great choice if you’d like your accommodations to fit the vibe of the surrounding area you’re visiting. This boutique hotel with 20 rooms and four suites across two floors has several room configurations to fit your needs.

Described by Baltimore Magazine as “The Martha’s Vineyard of the Mid-Atlantic” Lewes is a charming town chock full of shops and byways to explore at a leisurely, curious pace. The Hotel Rodney is just right for that kind of experience.

Other features that make this hotel distinctive:

  • Classy, retro-contemporary styling helps the hotel’s historic stature feel up-to-date
  • The absence of mass-produced hotel clutter and products creates a cozy, welcoming feel
  • Out-the-door proximity to unique restaurants, museums, and shops

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SheBuysTravel Tip: Bike the trails at nearby Cape Henlopen State Park to Rebohoth Beach, possibly your next destination after Lewes and definitely one of the best beaches in Delaware.

Hotel Rehoboth interior grand staircase
Let the Hotel Rehoboth deliver you to a classy, grand vacation. Photo credit: Hotel Rehoboth

Hotel Rehoboth

247 Rehoboth Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

For a lesson in class and refinement in a festive beach town, look no further than the Hotel Rehoboth. With a fine attention to detail at every level, this hotel will make you feel special while you enjoy the beach, boardwalk, shopping and dining highlights of Rehoboth. Guests can look forward to:

  • Finely-appointed, luxury guest rooms, studios and suites
  • Grand lobby and piano area
  • On-site Italian restaurant and bar for evening dining and complimentary breakfast
  • Open-air beach shuttle
  • On-site pool

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Inn at Canal Square

122 W Market St.
Lewes, DE 19958

The Nantucket style of this inn brings a taste of the Northeast to the Delaware coast. Its waterfront location a half-mile from the beach oozes with atmosphere. The Inn strikes a great balance between polished elegance and authentic charm. The Inn offers:

  • Twenty-two spacious rooms and three luxury suites
  • Complimentary, extensive European-style breakfast
  • Free WiFi
  • Free parking
  • Beach chairs and towels for guests
  • Note: The Inn is a great destination-event host, so dates may be booked well in advance

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Like a cupcake, The Towers B&B is bright pink on the outside, with rich browns and classic decors inside! Photo credit: The Towers Bed and Breakfast

The Towers Bed and Breakfast

101 NW Front St.
Milford, DE 19963

Built in 1783 and extensively remodeled in 1891 in “lavish Steamboat Gothic” style, The Towers is eye-catching and memory-sparking. Five one-of-a-kind suites make this luxury bed and breakfast an unforgettable alternative to conventional hotels.

  • An American Historic Inn
  • Great home base for exploring Kent County’s Quaint Villages
  • Proprietors can direct you to best restaurants and coffee shops in the area
  • Visit unique attractions like the hand-painted model boat of Milford or, 20 minutes away, The Steampunk Treehouse at Dogfish Brewery
  • No kids under the age of 13

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Terry House Bed & Breakfast

130 Delaware St.
New Castle, DE 19720

Hotels in the Wilmington area all serve nearby, historic New Castle. But if you’d like to experience a stay in a pre-internet, pre-chain, pre-Airbnb kind of way, consider Terry House Bed & Breakfast. An 1860 Federal Townhouse, innkeeper Shereen Deemer provides breakfast and Wi-Fi in this historic home.

  • Note: Only children over the age of 10 are allowed as guests
  • Want to really try something pre-digital? This B&B only accepts cash and checks! (But the rooms come complete with free wi-fi!)

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Dover Garden Suites

315 Martin St.
Dover, DE 19901

Described by proprietors Jirapha Khomwan and Jim Mathews as a hotel with “Luxurious Executive Suites,” Dover Garden is a fantastic accommodation choice for extended stays, families and anyone seeking a more distinctive hotel experience. With well-tended grounds and gardens, the hotel offers a serene oasis in the heart of Dover.

Features include:

  • Spacious two-room suites boast 800+ square feet, a separate living room, full master bathroom with Jacuzzi tub, and additional 1/2 bath in living room
  • Wood burning fireplace in each unit!
  • In-unit washer and dryer! Plus wet bar, mini frig, microwave and coffee maker.
  • Large private patio for each suite
  • Barbeque grills available
  • Secure fenced parking for guests

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Exterior of the Blue Water House Hotel
Want the furthest thing possible from a chain hotel? You’ve found your place! Photo credit: Blue Water House

Blue Water House

407 E Market St.
Lewes, DE 19958

This casual beach house located a few blocks from the Lewes historic district and a short walk to the Delaware Bay beaches pops with color and personality. Once you’ve seen its vibrantly bedecked Key West-themed rooms and whimsical front desk, you just won’t be able to not have fun.

Features of this quirky B&B:

  • Homemade/at-home style breakfast offered every day
  • Family-friendly
  • Uniquely painted and decorated themed rooms.
  • Ideal for a group booking.
  • Loads of parking and covered patio for guests.

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Aerial shot of the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel
Get ready to rumble! You’ll be in the heart of the boardwalk action. Photo credit: Boardwalk Plaza Hotel

Boardwalk Plaza Hotel

2 Olive Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, DE, 19971

If you’re going to be right on the boardwalk in Rehoboth, this hotel may be the place to hang your hat for your trip as you immerse yourself in all-things-boardwalk. Prices definitely reflect the prime oceanfront location and long-standing presence of the Boardwalk Plaza in the Rehoboth scene. Come prepared for a bit of dated kitsch in the interior styling, and soak up all the great hospitality.

Amenities include:

  • On-site pub and dining
  • Indoor/outdoor hot soaking tub
  • Beach towel service
  • Free parking for one vehicle
  • Kids’ craft hours in high season
  • Concierge level service with “genteel extras” for people traveling without children

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Beach View Hotel

6 Wilmington Ave.
Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

A TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice darling, the Beach View offers great value, service and location all in one fell swoop. A part of the same hotel group as The Avenue Inn & Spa, you’ll notice similar interior decor and vibe. Just 150 feet from the beach—and next to Funland!— the Beach View Hotel is a stellar family-friendly option. Enjoy these helpful amenities:

  • Outdoor pool
  • Free breakfast
  • Free parking!
  • Free happy hour!

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Meris Gardens

33309 Kent Ave., Next to Sea Colony
Bethany Beach, DE 19930

Dubbed one of the “coolest” hotels in Delaware, Meris Gardens offers a genuine experience of having a home-away-from-home during your travels. With cheery renovated rooms, spectacular gardens and tall pines, the mix of buildings and outdoor space is instantly transportive.

Hotel features include:

  • Free loaner bikes for the short jaunt to the beach
  • Daily breakfast
  • Dog friendly rooms & “Furry Friends Amenities” like drinking bowls in common spaces and dog toys!
  • Fabulous, serene garden atmosphere

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Exterior of Fenwick Shores at sunset
An understated, high value option for southern Delaware beach jaunts. Photo credit: Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Fenwick Shores, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

1501 Coastal Hwy
Fenwick Island, DE 19944

Thoroughly renovated, this Fenwick Island small-scale hotel makes a perfect hideout for quiet time in a coastal setting. Understated—but with contemporary refinement—Fenwick Shores may just hit the sweet spot for “just right is more than enough.” Hotel features include:

  • On-site restaurant & rooftop grill!
  • Outdoor pool
  • Connecting rooms and suites with full kitchens available
  • Self-parking $15 fee
  • No pet-friendly rooms

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The Quoin Hotel

519 N Market St.
Wilmington, DE 19801

Want a distinctive boutique hotel experience for your stay in Wilmington? The Quoin Hotel is just the place for you. With 24 masterfully decorated rooms exuding a hip-classic vibe, this new hotel is a stunning contemporary addition to the Delaware hotel scene. On-site upscale restaurant means you don’t have to go far to enjoy great atmosphere and food after a day of sight-seeing.

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SheBuysTravel Tip: Traveling to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley and want to catch the fall colors? Check out this fall foliage predictor map! And enjoy them at Mt. Cuba Botanical Garden.

Exterior of a Killens Cabin
These awesome rustic cabins make for a great outdoor getaway! Photo credit: Killens Pond State Park

Central Delaware Hotel Alternative: Killens Pond State Park Cabins

5025 Killens Pond Road
Felton, DE 19943

These cozy wood-framed cottages make a great accommodation option for families and groups. Tucked in a wooded area of the state park they are close to a 66-acre pond. During your stay enjoy the outdoors as well as Killens Pond Water Park.

These rustic cabins are functional and comfortable. Features include:

  • Efficiency kitchens (refrigerator and microwave)
  • Screened-in porch
  • AC and heat
  • 1 double bed and 1 bunk bed; Cabin 11 with queen bed and pond view!
  • All interiors are universally accessible; 6 have wheelchair ramps
  • Cabins not accessible by vehicle — onsite wheelbarrows available to transport bags to the cabins!

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Chain Hotel Options in Delaware

Hilton Wilmington/Christiana

100 Continental Dr.
Newark, DE 19713

If you’re in the Newark-Wilmington-Christiana confluence and want to explore the surrounding area from a more romantic venue, this renovated and updated Hilton is for you.

  • Award-winning onsite restaurant.
  • Patio seating voted “Best Outdoor Dining in Delaware”!
  • Robust breakfast buffet
  • Beautiful lanai room options with indoor/outdoor courtyard access
  • Shop at Delaware’s largest mall—in nearby Christiana—and enjoy tax-free purchases.

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY

Patio at the Hyatt
Spacious outdoor seating lets you unwind after a day of sightseeing. Photo credit: Hyatt Place

Hyatt Place

760 Justison St.
Wilmington, DE 19801

1301 Coastal Hwy
Dewey Beach, DE 19971

If you want a high quality, non-luxury hotel chain option for your Wilmington stay, Hyatt Place on the Christina River is a fantastic choice. We also are fans of the spankin’ new Hyatt Place in Dewey Beach.

Our favorite features of Hyatt Place hotels:

the free breakfast that actually feels and tastes like a real breakfast.

  • Pet friendly!
  • Hotel room layouts that work well for non-solo traveling—the bed and sitting areas feel separated enough so that you don’t feel crowded in with your travel companions.
  • And those Hyatt beds! Hyatt beds are so excellent that in my early 30s I actually bought one in king size. Twenty years later it’s still the best value, most-rewarding item I’ve ever splurged on!

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY AT HYATT PLACE CHRISTINA RIVER

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY AT HYATT PLACE DEWEY BEACH

Riverview room at the Homewood Suites.
With light-filled rooms and common areas, Homewood Suites connects you to the surrounding river environment. Photo credit: Homewood Suites by Hilton

Homewood Suites by Hilton

820 Justison St.
Wilmington, DE 19801

If you prefer a newer hotel with a fresh feel and water-view rooms available, consider enjoying your time in Wilmington at Homewood Suites by Hilton. Located on the Christina River, it offers a restful reprieve from your urban explorations, with several great features:

  • Pet friendly rooms!
  • Sleep through the free breakfast and want another fringe benefit of your hotel stay? They’ve got you covered with a free Wednesday evening social!
  • Need a short excursion to get your group outdoors? Hop onto the riverfront Jack Markell Trail for a brisk jaunt to Hoots Hollow!

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Indoor pool at the Doubletree.
Traveling with kids? An indoor pool usually comes in handy. Photo credit: Doubletree by Hilton

The Doubletree by Hilton

700 N King St.
Wilmington, DE 19801

If you want to retain the convenience of a downtown location and an indoor pool is an essential feature for you to have a satisfying stay, then check out The Doubletree by Hilton.

Other hotel features include:

  • Onsite dining
  • Specialized legal conference center (which, if that means something to you, means its a distinctive plus for this hotel choice!)
  • Allergic to dogs? You’re in luck: No pets allowed here.

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Residence Inn patio
A user-friendly, good-looking patio with a fountain goes a long way when you need to unwind at the end of the day. Photo credit: Residence Inn by Marriott

Residence Inn by Marriott

600 Jefferic Blvd.
Dover, DE, 19901

With studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites, this Dover, Delaware hotel offers outstanding value and location. Want to cash in your points? Accrue more points? This Residence Inn delivers. Hotel highlights include:

  • One-bedroom suites have fireplaces
  • Two-bedroom suites have full kitchens
  • Indoor pool and whirlpool
  • Minutes from Dover Airforce Base, Dover Downs Casino, and Dover Motor Speedway (home to the annual national-caliber Firefly Music Festival)

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SheBuysTravel Tips: Check out our full list of great hotels in Dover, Delaware!

Newark Hotel Options

If your travels bring you here for work or play connected to the University of Delaware, your best options in Newark are national hotel chains:

Highway 9 Options for Rehoboth Beach

Whether due to cost—or comfort level with the boardwalk and beach crowds—you might opt to stay a few minutes from the beach, and commute in to the action. A cluster of solid, affordable options await you right off Highway 9, minutes from Rehoboth Bay or Beach:


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