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Delaware

Delaware, Ohio, United States

Discover Small Town Charm and Big City Flavor in Delaware, Ohio Nestled along the Olentangy River, Delaware, Ohio, offers a delightful blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Steeped in history and brimming wit…

#Midwest#Small town#Historic district#Ohio State University#Outdoor recreation

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Delaware.

Top Hotels in Delaware

Top Flights to Delaware

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Delaware.

Tours

Perkins Observatory

A place for star-gazing and learning about astronomy.

Shopping

Historic Downtown Shopping

Explore a variety of unique shops and boutiques in Delaware's historic downtown area.

Outdoor

Visit Delaware State Park

A beautiful park offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Delaware.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Delaware, Ohio, United States, is 43,000.

Languages

English, Spanish

Average weather

Delaware

Jan

5°-3°

Feb

6°-2°

Mar

11°1°

Apr

17°6°

May

23°11°

Jun

28°16°

Jul

30°19°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

26°16°

Oct

20°9°

Nov

14°4°

Dec

8°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Delaware.

What people love

Delaware, Ohio, located in the United States, offers several unique and appealing aspects for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Delaware, Ohio, include:

Historic charm: Delaware, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Delaware County Historical Society, the Strand Theatre, and the Ohio Wesleyan University campus.
Outdoor recreation: The Delaware area is home to several parks and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking at places like the Delaware State Park and Alum Creek State Park.
Shopping and dining: Delaware, Ohio, has a charming downtown area with a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors can browse unique stores, dine at local eateries, and experience the vibrant community atmosphere.
Cultural events: Delaware hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art shows, and theater productions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene and enjoy performances by talented artists and musicians.
Proximity to Columbus: Delaware is located just north of Columbus, Ohio's capital city. This provides easy access to additional attractions, museums, shopping opportunities, and dining options in the larger metropolitan area.

Overall, traveling to Delaware, Ohio, offers a blend of history, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and convenient access to nearby attractions, making it a desirable destination for visitors seeking a diverse and enriching travel experience.

What to know

Delaware, Ohio is a charming city with many attractions, but like any destination, there are some cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited Public Transportation: Delaware, Ohio does not have a robust public transportation system, so getting around may be more challenging without a car.
Limited Nightlife: Delaware is a smaller city, so the nightlife options may be limited compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a bustling nightlife scene, you may be disappointed.
Weather: Like much of the Midwest, Delaware, Ohio experiences all four seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers can be hot and humid. Be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the time of year you visit.
Limited Accommodation Options: While there are hotels in Delaware, Ohio, the options may be more limited compared to larger cities. It's important to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Overall, Delaware, Ohio is a lovely destination with much to offer, but it's important to consider these potential drawbacks when planning your trip.

Delaware, Ohio, is a city with a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. Here is a detailed history of the city, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Founding

Founding: Delaware, Ohio, was founded in 1808 by Moses Byxbe, who was a land speculator from Massachusetts. He played a key role in the early development of the area.
Incorporation: The city was incorporated in 1816 and became the county seat of Delaware County. The county was established in 1808, the same year the city was founded.

Development and Growth

Ohio Wesleyan University: In 1842, Ohio Wesleyan University was founded in Delaware. It started in a small mansion that belonged to a local businessman, and it has grown to become a prominent liberal arts university. The university is a significant part of the city’s identity and has a historic campus with several notable buildings.
Railroads: The arrival of the railroads in the mid-19th century spurred economic growth and facilitated transportation, contributing to Delaware's development as a regional hub.

Significant Events

Civil War Era: Delaware played a role in the Civil War, as it was home to Camp Delaware, a training site for Union soldiers.
Little Brown Jug: Delaware is famous for hosting the Little Brown Jug, one of the Triple Crown events of harness racing for pacers. It has been held annually at the Delaware County Fairgrounds since 1946.

Notable Figures

Rutherford B. Hayes: The 19th President of the United States, Rutherford B. Hayes, was born in Delaware, Ohio, in 1822. His birthplace is an important historical site, although the original house no longer stands.
Charles Fairbanks: Another notable figure from Delaware is Charles W. Fairbanks, who served as Vice President of the United States from 1905 to 1909 under President Theodore Roosevelt.

Important Landmarks

Delaware County Courthouse: The courthouse is a historic building that reflects the city's status as the county seat and is notable for its architecture.
The Strand Theatre: Opened in 1916, The Strand Theatre is one of the oldest continually operating movie theaters in the United States and is a beloved landmark in Delaware.
Perkins Observatory: Located just south of the city, Perkins Observatory is a historic observatory operated by Ohio Wesleyan University. It was once one of the largest telescopes in the world and remains a site for education and public programs in astronomy.

Modern Developments

Downtown Revitalization: In recent years, Delaware has seen a revitalization of its downtown area, with efforts to preserve historic buildings while encouraging new businesses and cultural activities.

Delaware, Ohio, continues to be a vibrant community that values its historical roots while looking towards the future.