Delaware may be a small state, but it has a way of getting under your skin in the most unexpected ways. While it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about things to miss, once you leave, it’s the little things—the details of everyday life—that might make you long for home. Here are 11 small things about Delaware you never thought would make you homesick.
1. The Smell of Saltwater at the Beach
Whether it’s the famous Rehoboth Beach or a quieter spot like Fenwick Island, the fresh saltwater breeze in Delaware is something you never truly appreciate until you leave. That distinct ocean smell combined with the relaxing sound of waves hitting the shore makes coastal living here something special.
2. The Taste of a Delaware Crab Cake
Delaware is known for its blue crabs, and you never realize how much you’ll miss a perfectly cooked crab cake until you’re somewhere else. The sweet, tender crab meat with just the right amount of seasoning and that crispy outer layer is the kind of comfort food you can’t easily find elsewhere.
3. The Quiet Charm of Small Towns
Delaware’s small towns, like Middletown and Lewes, have a quiet charm that’s hard to replicate. You never thought you’d miss strolling through peaceful streets with charming cafes and local shops, but once you leave, the small-town vibe feels irreplaceable.
4. The Scenic Drive Through Farmland
Driving through Delaware’s countryside can feel like a peaceful escape. The endless farmlands, rolling hills, and sunset views over fields make even a simple drive a scenic adventure. It’s something so subtle that you won’t realize how much you miss it until you’re stuck in traffic or surrounded by concrete.
5. The Delmarva Peninsula
The Delmarva Peninsula, where Delaware meets Maryland and Virginia, offers a mix of rustic charm and natural beauty. From quiet shores to sprawling fields, you didn’t realize how often you’d visit this peaceful stretch of land for a relaxing getaway.
6. The Historic Lighthouses
Delaware is home to several iconic lighthouses, including the Fenwick Island Lighthouse and Delaware Breakwater East End Lighthouse. Whether you’re walking along the beach or admiring the view from a distance, the presence of these historic structures gives Delaware a unique character you didn’t know you’d miss.
7. The Scent of Fresh Produce from Local Farms
Delaware’s farmers’ markets and local farm stands are some of the best places to buy fresh produce. The smell of just-picked peaches, corn, and berries is something that can be hard to replicate once you’re away. The local bounty and small-town markets are part of the state’s charm.
8. The State’s Absence of Sales Tax
It’s easy to forget how much you take Delaware’s tax-free shopping for granted until you find yourself paying sales tax elsewhere. Whether it’s clothes, electronics, or even just a meal, the relief of not having to pay sales tax makes it an unexpected perk of living here.
9. The Sound of Cicadas in Summer
In the summer, the chorus of cicadas is a sound you’ll come to miss after you leave. The hum of these insects filling the warm evening air is something uniquely Delawarean, signaling summer nights that are relaxing and laid-back.
10. The Proximity to the Beach
Living in Delaware means that beaches are never far away. Whether it’s a short trip to Rehoboth, Bethany Beach, or Dewey, you never thought you’d miss how easy it was to just go to the coast for a quick getaway. After leaving, those long beachless stretches in other states can be hard to handle.
11. The Small, Tight-Knit Community Feel
Delaware’s tight-knit communities are something you didn’t realize you’d miss until you leave. It’s a state where you can bump into friends and acquaintances at the local coffee shop or grocery store—there’s an intimacy that comes with being in a smaller state. It’s a kind of familiarity and comfort that’s hard to find in larger cities.
Delaware may be small, but its quiet beauty and local culture have a way of sneaking into your heart. It’s not just the beaches or the history—it’s the small, everyday moments that make it home. After leaving, you’ll find yourself unexpectedly missing the peaceful pace of life and the subtle, comforting quirks that make Delaware uniquely special.
SOURCES
[1] https://drifttravel.com/exploring-delaware-nature-culture-and-history/
[2] https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/these-9-delaware-towns-have-the-most-unique-festivals.html
[3] https://guides.loc.gov/delaware-folklife
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delaware
[5] https://www.livelovedelaware.com/play-in-delaware/arts-and-culture/
