A lifelong Delawarean, Tina Madanat has spent the last 17 years at the Delaware Tourism Office helping others discover the magic of her home state. As sales director and group tour leader, she enjoys building personal relationships with group travel planners to help them create special, customized experiences. “For me, it’s all about providing a friendly, personal touch and working together to make every group visit to Delaware memorable,” she says.
Madanat recently shared with Group Tour some of the reasons her clients are flocking to The First State, and how she’s here to help.
Q. What is unique about Delaware as a destination?
A. Nestled in the heart of the mid-Atlantic region, Delaware serves as a convenient gateway to other East Coast destinations, is within a 200-mile radius of major metropolitan areas, and offers tax-free shopping, dining, and entertainment. Delaware is comprised of three regions, each known for their distinct offerings.
Q. What are Delaware’s most famous group-friendly attractions?
A. The northern region is renowned for some of the finest mansions and gardens on the East Coast, including Winterthur Museum, Nemours Estate, and Hagley Museum. The central region encompasses the capital city of Dover and features unique attractions like the Air Mobility Command Museum, Johnson Victrola Museum, and Dover Motor Speedway. Delaware’s southern region is applauded for its pristine beaches and maritime adventures.
Q. What does Delaware have to offer history enthusiasts?
A. Delaware is rich in history and celebrated as “The First State” to ratify the U.S. Constitution. From Indigenous beginnings to the American Revolution and Abolitionist Movement, groups will see history unfold and immerse themselves in compelling stories of courage, tragedy, and triumph. Be sure to visit Historic New Castle, Historic Houses of Odessa, First State Heritage Park, Historic Lewes, John Dickinson Plantation, and Underground Railroad sites!
Q. What kind of Delaware cuisine can groups enjoy?
A. Delaware is best known for its delectable coastal cuisine and unique regional specialties. Visitors enjoy steamed crabs, lump crab cakes, scrapple, farm-fresh ice cream, and boardwalk favorites such as Thrasher’s french fries, Grotto’s pizza, and Fisher’s popcorn. Be sure to sip your way through Delaware’s notable craft breweries (Dogfish Head, Wilmington Brew Works), wineries (Harvest Ridge and Salted Vines) and distilleries (Painted Stave)!
Q. When is the best time for groups to visit Delaware?
A. Delaware is a year-round destination. The spring and fall shoulder seasons are the best times to enjoy outdoor adventures with mild temperatures and smaller crowds. It’s an ideal time to explore blooming gardens, scenic state parks, charming beach towns, fun festivals, and captivating water cruises. A weekday during early-to-mid-December is the best time to behold the du Pont family’s opulent Christmas displays. Any time of the year is a great time to enjoy the performing arts in Delaware, including many off-Broadway productions!
Q. How can groups enhance their Delaware group experience?
A. Group travel planners can contact tina.madanat@delaware.gov to receive personalized service, itinerary recommendations, group welcome gifts, and site contacts for group-friendly lodging, attractions, and service providers.
Delaware Tourism Office
Tina Madanat | 302-387-3180 | Tina.Madanat@delaware.gov
www.visitdelaware.com/
