Delaware River Kayaking Map
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just looking for a new adventure, the Delaware River offers endless possibilities for exploration and fun. From its headwaters in upstate New York to its mouth at the Delaware Bay, the river winds through four states and offers a diverse array of landscapes, wildlife, and attractions.
Top Attractions
One of the most popular attractions along the Delaware River is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which spans 70,000 acres and offers hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. Other must-see attractions include the historic town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, the charming riverfront town of Lambertville, New Jersey, and the scenic Frenchtown Bridge.
Hidden Gems
For a truly unique experience, check out the quiet and secluded Tinicum Island, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and kayaking. Another hidden gem is the river town of Milford, Pennsylvania, which boasts a charming downtown area and a historic grist mill.
Food Scene
The Delaware River region is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes to choose from. Some top picks include the Black Bass Hotel in Lumberville, Pennsylvania, the River House at Odette’s in New Hope, and the Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn in Lambertville, New Jersey.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a tight budget, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the Delaware River. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring one of the many parks or hiking trails. You can also rent a kayak or canoe for a fraction of the cost of a guided tour.
Outdoor Adventures
The Delaware River is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails, excellent fishing, and of course, world-class kayaking and canoeing. Some top outdoor adventures include the Delaware River Sojourn, which is a multi-day guided kayaking trip, and the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, which offers miles of scenic biking and hiking trails.
Historical Landmarks
The Delaware River region has a rich history, and there are plenty of historic landmarks to explore. Some top picks include Washington Crossing Historic Park, which commemorates George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River, and the Roebling Bridge, which was designed by John Roebling, the same engineer who later designed the Brooklyn Bridge.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Delaware River is a great destination for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities to choose from. Some top picks include the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania, the Bucks County Children’s Museum in New Hope, and the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, check out the Delaware River’s many off-the-beaten-path attractions. Some top picks include the abandoned town of Island Beach, which can only be reached by boat, and the abandoned railway tunnel at Ringing Rocks Park.
Natural Wonders
The Delaware River region is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country, including the Delaware Water Gap and the Palisades. Other must-see natural attractions include the Delaware Canal State Park, which features miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, and the Hacklebarney State Park, which boasts beautiful waterfalls and rock formations.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a fun night out, the Delaware River region has plenty of options to choose from. Some top picks include the Havana in New Hope, which offers live music and dancing, the Triumph Brewing Company in Lambertville, which is known for its craft beers and delicious food, and the River Cat Cafe in Frenchtown, which offers a cozy atmosphere and excellent food and drinks.
Local Markets
The Delaware River region is home to some of the best farmers markets in the country, with a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. Some top picks include the Stockton Farmers Market in Stockton, New Jersey, the Wrightstown Farmers Market in Wrightstown, Pennsylvania, and the Easton Farmers Market in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Beaches and Mountains
While the Delaware River itself doesn’t have any beaches or mountains, there are plenty of nearby destinations to explore. Some top picks include the Jersey Shore, which is just a short drive away, and the Pocono Mountains, which offer excellent skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Cultural Immersion
The Delaware River region is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. Some top picks include the Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the Bucks County Playhouse in New Hope, and the State Theatre Center for the Arts in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Art and Music Scene
The Delaware River region is also known for its excellent music and art festivals, which take place throughout the year. Some top picks include the Musikfest in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Riverfest in Frenchtown, New Jersey, and the Arts Festival in Lambertville, New Jersey.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore the Delaware River region on foot, there are plenty of excellent walking tours to choose from. Some top picks include the Ghost Tours of New Hope, which explores the town’s haunted history, the Walking Tour of Historic Milford, which takes you through the town’s charming downtown area, and the Walking Tour of Easton, which explores the town’s rich history and architecture.
Architectural Marvels
The Delaware River region is home to some of the most stunning architecture in the country, with a wide array of historic homes, churches, and other buildings. Some top picks include the Fonthill Castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, the Union Station in Easton, Pennsylvania, and the Lambertville City Hall in Lambertville, New Jersey.
Historical Sites
The Delaware River region played a key role in American history, and there are plenty of historic sites to explore. Some top picks include the Washington Crossing Historic Park, which commemorates George Washington’s famous crossing of the Delaware River, the Moravian Museum in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton, New Jersey.
Biking Routes
The Delaware River region is home to some of the best biking routes in the country, with miles of scenic trails and quiet back roads to explore. Some top picks include the Delaware Canal State Park, which offers miles of flat, easy biking, and the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, which offers a diverse array of terrain and scenery.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking to relax and recharge, the Delaware River region is home to some excellent wellness retreats. Some top picks include the Nurture Spa in New Hope, which offers a wide array of spa treatments and wellness classes, and the Raritan Inn at Middle Valley in Califon, New Jersey, which offers a peaceful and secluded retreat in the heart of the Delaware River Valley.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, the Delaware River region offers plenty of opportunities for adventure sports, including rock climbing, ziplining, and hot air ballooning. Some top picks include the Shawnee Mountain Ski Area in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, the Hunterdon County Balloon Festival in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, and the High Rocks State Park in Pipersville, Pennsylvania.
Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, the Delaware River region has something for everyone. So grab your kayak and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in the country!