You don’t have to go broke trying to have a good time in Delaware this summer. In fact, you may not have to spend anything at all! Our lovely state has plenty of natural beauty and really fun attractions to explore all season long, from dawn til dusk. Whether you are outdoorsy or just enjoy the opportunity to do something low-key like watching a movie or attending a concert, there is something great for everyone. Check your town’s local calendar to find some great street fairs, festivals, and events that are often free to attend! If you are looking for some inspiration, start with the following cool activities that are sure to get you out and about without making a dent in your bank account. When it comes to free things to do in Delaware, we have definitely got you covered!

1. Visit one of our nature centers.
Flickr / Andrew E. Russell
Most of the state parks in Delaware have nature centers that are free to explore. Park entrance fees may apply, but they are nominal. One of the best spots to visit is the DuPont Environmental Education Center at the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge, which is a great way to escape the busy city for a wilderness adventure.
2. Enjoy Dewey Beach in the evening
Dewey Beach, DE 19971, USA
Geoff Livingston/Flickr
Head to the beach at Dagsworthy Street for a beautiful sunset and twilight hours along with a family-friendly bonfire night. Roast s'mores with those you love and have a blast doing it! The Dewey bonfires are a great way to enjoy time with your family and friends for a beautiful night. If you're on the lookout for cheap day trips in Delaware, these beach bonfires are a great choice.
3. Catch a flick at Dewey Beach.
Kurt Wagner/Flickr
Head to Dasgworthy St. Beach in Dewey on Monday nights for movies on the sand. The lineup is always full of hits that everyone will love, including fun modern classics and family favorites. You can't go wrong with any of the fun and entertaining titles. And who wouldn't want to watch a movie with the gentle waves in the background?
4. Or enjoy a film after karaoke night at the Bethany Beach Bandstand.
Facebook / Bethany Beach Bandstand Events
On Monday nights from June through August, movies at the beach start at dusk. Bethany Beach also offers movies on the Bandstand. Those are shown on Friday nights at dusk in September. Check out the full movie schedule for each year on the Bethany Beach website.
5. Enjoy a concert at the Lewes Ferry Terminal.
Facebook / Cape May Lewes Ferry
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal will be home to their Thursday Night concert series once again. These free concerts run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. You can find the schedule on the Cape May-Lewes website. This spot is full of some of the best free events in Delaware!
6. Attend a concert at a Delaware State Park.
Baldcypress Nature Center, 33587 Bald Cypress Ln, Laurel, DE 19956, USA
Trap Pond State Park/TripAdvisor
Baldcypress Nature Center, Bellevue, Holt's Landing, White Clay Creek, Trap Pond... travel to them all and catch a concert this summer! With dozens of performances lined up on all days of the week, you don't have any excuses to miss out on these events. For the full schedule every year, visit Delaware State Park concerts website.
7. Rock out at the Ladybug Music Festival.
Facebook / Ladybug Music Festival
The country's largest celebration of women in music is a two-day free festival that takes over Market Street in Wilmington! The Ladybug Music Festival happens in the summer and features dozens of performing musicians.
8. Have a blast at the Indian River Marina's Annual Seafood & Art Festival.
Indian River Marina, 39415 Inlet Rd, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971, USA
jcsullivan24/Flickr
Head to the marina for a celebration of all things Delaware! Art, music and seafood are all part of this fun, bayside festival that's been a part of Indian River life for a decade.
9. Go on a treasure hunt!
Flickr / Lee Cannon
Delaware's Geocache Trail is a blast for those of us who love exploring the outdoors and solving puzzles! Download the Geocache app and head out to discover treasures hiding right in your backyard.

These outdoor activities and festivals are a great way to spend the day with your family and enjoy the summer weather. Have you gotten to experience any of these cool and unique places? Which one was your favorite? We would love to hear all about your trips in the comments section.

If you are looking for a mix of indoor and outdoor experiences, check out our expanded list of 10 awesome free activities in Delaware.

In addition to these exciting options to enjoy in the summer, what are your favorite cheap or free attractions in Delaware?

 

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