Small States. Big Stories. A Grand Coastal Escape.
There’s a lot of America tucked into these small states—and plenty of vacation, too. Over nine days, you’ll explore a coast of beautiful seaside towns, proud naval traditions, lavish estates and stories that helped shape a nation. Bring your curiosity and leave room for surprises. The discoveries here deserve far more space than Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey occupy on the map.
A trolley ride past colorful Victorian homes captures the romance of Cape May, where intricate trim and inviting porches make looking around a pleasure in itself. With time to wander, you can follow a pretty street, browse a shop or linger over a seaside view. Out on Delaware Bay, the ferry crossing opens up the horizon. Harbor cruises, historic waterfronts and Rehoboth’s lively boardwalk give the journey that wonderful feeling of being away by the water.
You’ll also encounter moments that make familiar history feel unexpectedly personal. Standing at Fort McHenry connects our national anthem to the flag and the night that inspired it. Walking the grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy brings generations of service into focus. Behind the doors of Nemours, extraordinary craftsmanship and sweeping gardens reveal just how grand a du Pont vision could be. And the sheer size of Dover’s military aircraft—and the scale of its speedway—offers a different kind of fascination.
There are discoveries to savor as well: a Maryland crab feast shared around the table, a glimpse into the underwater world at the National Aquarium, and the character of towns whose stories reach back centuries. It’s a coastal getaway with beauty, substance and enough variety to keep you eager for more. Come find out just how big a Small States adventure can be.
