One of the benefits of living in Delaware is access to some of the United States’ largest metropolitan areas. With an Amtrak station in Wilmington, a quick trip to any of these cities is accessible, inexpensive and hassle-free. Enjoy a jaunt to the nation’s capitol without the stress of D.C. traffic. Spend an evening out in Philadelphia without circling the block to find a place to park. Whether you want an effortless weekend getaway or a fun day trip, these destinations are just a quick train ride away from home.
Washington, D.C.
1 hour, 40 minutes
The nation’s capitol is only a short Amtrak ride away! For historic sight-seeing in the United States, this is a no-brainer bucket list location. With a ride under two hours, D.C. could easily be a day trip. Although, there’s no need to limit all the sight-seeing potential to just one day. With historic stays like the Hotel Washington, an overnight stay is part of the D.C. experience. With a grand historic feel, a classy rooftop bar and a new culinary concept coming this summer, it’s the perfect overnight destination during a weekend getaway from Delaware.
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Spend a couple of days witnessing historic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and more. To do it all in one go, check out the Monuments by Moonlight tour to see all the sights of D.C. in a different light. Plus, visit some of the Smithsonian museums to be immersed in the history of our nation. Enjoy the food and nightlife before returning home the next day.
New York City
1 hour, 50 minutes
This city needs no introduction. There’s so much to do in NYC, and Amtrak makes it an affordable and easy day trip from Wilmington. With a ride just under two hours, and as affordable as $20 round-trip, the possibilities are endless. Is there a Broadway show you’ve been dying to see? Make a day trip! Save on the commute and hotel stay and splurge on dinner and tickets. Or, make it a weekend getaway to sight-see all day and enjoy the illustrious New York City restaurants and bars by night. For fans of Zahav and K’Far Café in Philly, check out Chef Michael Solomonov’s Brooklyn concept, K’Far Brooklyn. For the full foodie experience, try a Foods of New York tour.
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Philadelphia, PA
20 minutes
Want to enjoy Philadelphia restaurants, sightseeing and nightlife without the hassle of Philadelphia driving and parking? Amtrak is the easy answer. A quick, 20-minute train ride drops you right on 30th Street, where you’re within walking distance of so much to do. Plus, the 20-minute train ride can cost as little as $5! From must-see historic sites and the Philadelphia Zoo to plenty of delicious food and drink options, this is an easy day trip for Delawareans. After you’ve explored Philly, treat yourself to dinner and a few cocktails, knowing you can skip the drive back home.
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Baltimore, MD
45 minutes
Similar to Philadelphia, Baltimore is an easily drivable destination for Delawareans. If you want to skip out on the hassle, though, Amtrak can get you there in 45 minutes for as little as $10 round-trip if you plan ahead. With low travel costs, you can splurge on a luxury overnight stay like The Ivy Hotel, a romantic boutique hotel housed in a historic Mount Vernon mansion.
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Enjoy attractions like the National Aquarium and historic sites like the Edgar Allan Poe House, the Fort McHenry National Monument and more. For foodies, try out a walking foodie tour in Fells Point, one of Baltimore’s oldest neighborhoods and home to more than 100 small businesses. With a train ride back home, feel free to indulge in all the food, craft beer and cocktails.
Related: Every Flight Offered by Avelo Airlines at the Wilmington Airport