State Tourist Attractions in Delaware

1. What are some popular Delaware’s landmarks that attract tourists?

Some popular landmarks in Delaware that attract tourists are:

– The Brandywine River Museum of Art: This museum features a collection of regional and American art, including works by the Wyeth family.

– The Nemours Mansion and Gardens: A grand 77-room mansion built in the early 20th century, surrounded by beautiful French-style gardens.

– Delaware Seashore State Park: A popular beach destination with multiple swimming areas, biking and hiking trails, and camping options.

– Hagley Museum & Library: Located on the site of the DuPont Company’s first gunpowder mill, this museum features exhibits on American industrial heritage and includes restored mills, workers’ homes, and gardens.

– Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: Formerly the home of Henry Francis du Pont, this stunning estate now houses a museum with a vast collection of American decorative arts and an extensive garden.

– Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: Known as “the nation’s summer capital,” this boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions such as Funland amusement park.

– Fort Delaware State Park: This Civil War-era fortress located on Pea Patch Island offers guided tours that allow visitors to experience life as a soldier during the 1800s.

– Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: A premier bird-watching spot with over 16,000 acres of wildlife habitat situated along the Atlantic Flyway migratory route.

– Lewes Historical Society Complex: Featuring several historic buildings from the 1700s and 1800s, this complex showcases Delaware’s colonial past through tours and living history demonstrations.

2. How does Delaware showcase its unique culture and traditions to tourists?


1. Historical sites and landmarks: Delaware is home to a number of historical sites and landmarks that showcase the state’s rich history and culture. These include places like Fort Christina, the site where the first Swedish settlement in North America was established, as well as historic houses, churches, and museums.

2. Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Delaware hosts a variety of festivals and events that celebrate its unique culture and traditions. These include the Delaware State Fair, the World Championship Punkin Chunkin competition, and the Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival.

3. Native American heritage: Delaware has a significant Native American population, particularly from the Nanticoke Indian Tribe. Visitors can learn about traditional crafts, cuisine, and customs through cultural centers like the Nanticoke Indian Museum.

4. Culinary experiences: The cuisine of Delaware is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with seafood being a major part of the local diet. Tourists can try regional dishes like steamed blue crabs and scrapple at local restaurants or attend food-oriented events like Wilmington’s Riverfront Blues Festival.

5. Performing arts: The state boasts a vibrant performing arts scene that showcases both traditional and modern forms of expression. From community theaters to dance companies to live music venues, visitors can experience live performances that highlight Delaware’s unique artistic talent.

6. Walking tours: Several cities in Delaware offer walking tours that explore their distinctive architecture, neighborhoods, and local businesses. These tours offer an up-close look at different aspects of the state’s culture and provide opportunities for interactions with locals.

7. Outdoor activities: With its beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and wildlife reserves, Delaware offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy while experiencing its natural beauty firsthand. Kayaking along winding waterways or hiking through wooded trails are great ways to immerse oneself in the state’s unique landscape.

8. Art galleries and museums: Delaware is home to several art galleries and museums that feature both contemporary and traditional forms of art. The Delaware Art Museum, Hagley Museum, and Winterthur Museum are just a few examples of places where visitors can appreciate the state’s artistic heritage.

9. Handcrafted souvenirs: Many cities in Delaware have local artisans who create unique handcrafted items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Tourists can visit these shops to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and support the state’s small businesses.

10. Cultural exchange programs: Delaware also has various cultural exchange programs that give tourists the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their traditions firsthand. These include homestay programs, volunteer opportunities, and cultural immersion tours.

3. What are the top Delaware’s natural attractions for visitors to explore?


1. Delaware Beaches – With over 28 miles of coastline, the beaches in Delaware offer visitors a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and water sports.

2. Brandywine Creek State Park – This state park is home to beautiful scenery and hiking trails, including the popular Brandywine Falls Trail. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and wildlife viewing at this natural attraction.

3. Cape Henlopen State Park – Located on a peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, this state park offers visitors opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, biking, and other recreational activities. It is also home to World War II-era observation towers that can be explored by visitors.

4. Delaware Seashore State Park – Another popular beach destination in Delaware with six miles of shoreline, this state park also offers hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views of both bay and ocean waters.

5. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge – This refuge is home to a diverse range of habitats that attract many species of migratory birds throughout the year. Visitors can observe these birds from designated observation points or explore the refuge’s trails for close-up views.

6. Fort Delaware State Park – Located on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River, Fort Delaware allows visitors to explore Civil War-era forts and learn about its role during the war through interactive exhibits and reenactments.

7. White Clay Creek State Park – Named after the creek that runs through it, this state park offers over 37 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It also has picnic areas and a nature center for visitors to enjoy.

8. Trap Pond State Park – The largest freshwater pond in Delaware is located at this state park which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, birdwatching, and camping in its serene surroundings.

9. Hagley Museum and Library – For those interested in Delaware’s industrial history, this museum and library offers a glimpse into the first du Pont family home and replicates the early American gunpowder manufacturing process.

10. Fenwick Island State Park – This state park is a popular spot for fishing, crabbing, windsurfing, and other water activities along the ocean coastline. It also has a network of nature trails for those looking to explore its natural surroundings on foot.

4. In Delaware, where can you find the best outdoor recreational activities for tourists?


Delaware offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for tourists. Some of the best places to find these activities include:

1) Cape Henlopen State Park: This park offers swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking trails, as well as numerous campsites.

2) Rehoboth Beach: Known for its beautiful beaches and lively boardwalk, this is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

3) Trap Pond State Park: Visitors can canoe or kayak through the stunning bald cypress trees in this scenic park.

4) Brandywine Creek State Park: This park offers activities such as hiking, bird-watching, fishing, and rock climbing.

5) White Clay Creek State Park: With its extensive network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Other options for outdoor fun in Delaware include visiting Delaware Seashore State Park for camping and beach activities, exploring the manicured gardens at Nemours Estate, and taking a scenic drive through the Brandywine Valley.

5. How many national parks does Delaware have and what makes them a must-visit for tourists?


Delaware does not have any national parks. However, the state does have several state parks and conservation areas that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. These include:

1. Cape Henlopen State Park – Located on the coast of Delaware and known for its beaches, historic WWII fortifications, and bike trails.

2. Brandywine Creek State Park – Offers scenic trails for hiking and biking, as well as fishing and nature programs.

3. Killens Pond State Park – Features a large pond with boating and fishing activities, as well as campsites and cabins for overnight stays.

4. Trap Pond State Park – Home to the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees in the United States, as well as canoeing and kayaking opportunities.

5. White Clay Creek State Park – Encompasses over 3,000 acres of woodlands, fields, and streams perfect for hiking and horseback riding.

These state parks in Delaware offer beautiful natural scenery and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, making them a must-visit destination for tourists looking to experience the outdoors in this small but charming state.

6. What is the most visited tourist spot in Delaware and why?


The most visited tourist spot in Delaware is Rehoboth Beach. It draws tourists for its clean beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and proximity to popular attractions such as the boardwalk, amusement parks, and tax-free shopping. Additionally, Rehoboth has a wide range of restaurants, entertainment options, and accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. It is also known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and events like the annual Rehoboth Beach Gay Pride festival.

7. Are there any famous historical sites that draw tourists to Delaware every year?


Yes, there are several famous historical sites in Delaware that draw tourists every year. Some of the most popular ones include:

1. Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library – This grand estate was built in the early 20th century by Henry Francis du Pont and is now a museum showcasing American decorative arts from the late 1600s to the 1800s.

2. First State National Historical Park – This park includes important historical sites such as Fort Christina, Old Swedes Church, and the New Castle Court House Museum.

3. Nemours Mansion and Gardens – The grand estate of industrialist Alfred I. du Pont is now open for public tours of its opulent rooms and formal gardens.

4. Hagley Museum and Library – This former gunpowder mill is now a museum that offers an insight into early American manufacturing.

5. Delaware History Museum – Located in Wilmington, this museum tells the story of Delaware’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

6. John Dickinson Plantation – This historical site was once home to one of America’s founding fathers, John Dickinson, and now offers tours of the restored plantation house and grounds.

7. Historic New Castle – The town of New Castle is a well-preserved colonial village that attracts visitors with its quaint streets, historic homes, and charming shops.

8. Name some lesser-known but equally impressive Delaware’s monuments and tourist attractions.


1. The Indian River Life Saving Station Museum
2. The Auburn Heights Preserve and Marshall Steam Museum
3. The Zwaanendael Museum
4. The Air Mobility Command Museum
5. Nemours Mansion and Gardens
6. Fort DuPont State Park
7. John Dickinson Plantation
8. Fenwick Island Lighthouse
9. Bethany Beach Boardwalk and Bandstand
10. Historic New Castle Court House Museum

9. How does Delaware promote ecotourism and sustainable travel for visitors?


1. Sustainable Tourism Development: Delaware promotes sustainable tourism development, which aims to minimize negative impacts on the environment and preserve natural resources for future generations. This includes promoting responsible travel practices, supporting local conservation efforts, and working with tourism businesses to implement sustainable practices.

2. State Parks: Delaware has a network of state parks and nature preserves that offer opportunities for visitors to engage in ecotourism activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and camping in natural settings. The parks also have educational programs and events focused on environmental preservation and sustainability.

3. Green Lodging Program: The Delaware Green Lodging Program encourages hotels, inns, and other accommodations to implement eco-friendly practices such as energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, and using environmentally friendly cleaning products.

4. Eco-friendly Events: The state supports eco-friendly events that promote sustainable practices such as recycling, use of biodegradable or reusable materials, and reducing energy consumption. Popular events include the Firefly Music Festival, which features a “Leave No Trace” policy to minimize impact on the surrounding environment.

5. Wildlife Watching: Delaware is home to a variety of wildlife species such as bald eagles, gray seals, horseshoe crabs, and migratory birds. Visitors can participate in wildlife watching tours or visit sanctuaries and wildlife refuges such as Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge to learn about the diverse ecosystems in the state.

6. Bicycle Tourism: Delaware promotes bicycle tourism by providing bike-friendly routes throughout the state’s scenic landscapes. This not only reduces carbon emissions from cars but also allows visitors to get a closer look at local flora and fauna while supporting local businesses along the way.

7. Agritourism: Agritourism is another form of sustainable travel promoted by Delaware’s Department of Agriculture. Visitors can tour farms and participate in activities such as picking fruits and vegetables or learning about sustainable farming practices.

8. Shoreline Conservation: The state encourages visitors to enjoy its beaches and coastal areas while also promoting responsible practices to protect the fragile shorelines. This includes beach cleanups, dune restoration projects, and implementing strict rules and regulations for beach activities.

9. Promotion of Local Products: Delaware promotes sustainable travel by encouraging visitors to support local businesses that use environmentally friendly practices or sell locally sourced products. This not only supports the local economy but also reduces carbon emissions from transportation of goods.

10. What are Delaware’s best culinary experiences for foodie tourists?


1. The Green Room at Hotel du Pont – located in one of Delaware’s most iconic hotels, this upscale restaurant offers fine dining and an extensive wine list.

2. The Farmer & the Cow – a popular farm-to-table eatery with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

3. Harry’s Savoy Grill – known for its delicious steaks and fresh seafood, this award-winning restaurant also has a beautiful garden for outdoor dining.

4. Big Fish Grill – with three locations in Delaware, this seafood restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

5. Tonic Bar & Grille – a modern American bistro with creative dishes and a trendy atmosphere.

6. Wood Fired Pizza Shop – using locally sourced ingredients and cooking pizzas in a traditional wood-fired oven, this pizza shop has gained a loyal following for its delicious pies.

7. University of Delaware Creamery – visit the campus of University of Delaware to indulge in their famous homemade ice cream made with milk from the university’s dairy farm.

8. Fifer Orchards Country Store and Farmhouse Kitchen – stop by this charming country store for freshly baked goods, sandwiches made with local ingredients, and seasonal produce.

9. Ole Tapas Lounge & Restaurant – featuring traditional Spanish tapas dishes and a lively atmosphere, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience.

10. Dogfish Head Brewery & Eats – foodies who also love craft beer won’t want to miss out on visiting this popular brewery known for its creative beer styles and tasty pub fare.

11. Can you describe any unique festivals or events that take place in Delaware, attracting tourists from all over?


One unique festival that takes place in Delaware is the Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville. This festival celebrates the agricultural heritage of the town and features delicious food made from apple and scrapple (a local pork-based dish), as well as live entertainment, crafts, and a carnival. It attracts thousands of visitors from surrounding states each year.

Another popular event is the Firefly Music Festival, which takes place in Dover. This four-day music festival features well-known headlining acts as well as up-and-coming artists across various genres. It also includes interactive attractions, gourmet food options, camping, and unique art installations. It has become one of the largest music festivals on the East Coast and draws in tens of thousands of attendees from all over.

The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival is another popular event that attracts tourists to Delaware. This sweet event showcases chocolate creations from local restaurants and bakeries, as well as fun activities like chocolate-themed scavenger hunts and cooking demonstrations. It also raises money for charity organizations.

In Wilmington, the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival brings together jazz musicians from around the world for a week-long celebration of this musical genre. The festival offers free outdoor concerts, educational workshops, and family-friendly activities that attract both locals and out-of-state visitors.

Lastly, the Delaware State Fair is an annual 10-day event that brings together agriculture, entertainment, and carnival rides for people of all ages. With concerts, animal exhibits, food vendors, and competitions such as a demolition derby, this fair draws in large crowds from all over Delaware and neighboring states.

12. Do any of tourist attractions offer hands-on learning experiences for visitors in Delaware?


Yes, there are several tourist attractions in Delaware that offer hands-on learning experiences for visitors, including:

1. The Delaware Children’s Museum: This interactive museum offers a variety of hands-on exhibits and programs to engage children in fun and educational activities.

2. Brandywine Zoo: This small zoo features interactive exhibits and encounters with animals, as well as hands-on keeper talks and feeding opportunities.

3. Hagley Museum and Library: Visitors can participate in hands-on demonstrations at this former gunpowder mill, including blacksmithing and gunpowder making.

4. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: In addition to tours of the historic mansion and gardens, visitors can take part in hands-on workshops such as gardening, calligraphy, and textile arts.

5. Nemours Estate: This opulent estate offers guided tours as well as a “Touch & Talk” experience where visitors can handle reproduction artifacts from the collection.

6. Fort Delaware State Park: This Civil War-era fort offers living history programs where visitors can participate in daily tasks and drills alongside historical interpreters.

7. Kalmar Nyckel Foundation: Visitors can take a ride on a replica 17th century ship and learn about seafaring life during interactive programs onboard.

8. Cape Henlopen State Park: In addition to its beautiful beaches, this state park has a nature center that hosts educational programs on topics such as marine life and birdwatching.

9. Air Mobility Command Museum: Located on an active Air Force base, this museum offers guided tours of historic aircrafts as well as cockpit simulators for visitors to try out their flying skills.

10. Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: Along with classic boardwalk attractions like rides and games, visitors can also learn about the history of the area through interpretive displays scattered along the boardwalk.

11. Historic Georgetown Train Station: This historic train station now serves as a museum where visitors can explore model trains and participate in hands-on activities, such as operating a toy train.

12. Johnson Victrola Museum: This museum dedicated to the history of recorded sound offers interactive exhibits where visitors can listen to vintage records and even try their hand at recording using antique equipment.

13. What is the significance of Delaware’s’ popular museums and galleries as tourist attractions?


Delaware’s popular museums and galleries serve as important tourist attractions for a number of reasons.

Firstly, these cultural institutions offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the state’s history, art, and culture. Many of Delaware’s museums and galleries exhibit collections that highlight the state’s past, including its role in colonial America, its involvement in the Revolutionary War, and its development as a major shipping and industrial hub. This can be especially appealing to tourists who are interested in learning about American history.

Additionally, Delaware’s museums and galleries often feature works by local artists or showcase regional themes and styles. This gives tourists a chance to experience the unique flavor and creativity of Delaware’s art scene.

Moreover, these institutions often host special events and exhibitions that attract visitors from around the world. This can include traveling exhibits from other countries or special events featuring well-known artists or performers. The presence of these events helps to draw tourists to Delaware and adds excitement to their visit.

Furthermore, many of Delaware’s museums and galleries are located in historic buildings or beautiful surroundings, which can also make them attractive destinations for travelers. For example, some museums may be housed in former mansions or historic homes, while others may be located near scenic landscapes or waterfronts.

Overall, Delaware’s popular museums and galleries provide a mix of education, entertainment, and cultural experiences for tourists. They help to showcase the unique character of the state and contribute to its tourism industry by drawing visitors from both within the state and from out-of-state locations.

14. Are there any famous theaters, music venues, or performance halls in Delaware that attract a large number of tourists annually?


Yes, there are several famous theaters, music venues, and performance halls in Delaware that attract a large number of tourists annually. These include:

1. The Grand Opera House: Located in Wilmington, The Grand Opera House is a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and comedy acts.

2. The Playhouse on Rodney Square: Also located in Wilmington, this 1913 neo-classical theater features touring Broadway productions as well as performances by local groups.

3. The Freeman Stage: This outdoor venue in Selbyville offers a range of arts and cultural programs, including concerts, dance performances, and children’s events.

4. Bottle & Cork: A popular music venue in Dewey Beach known for hosting live music acts and beach parties during the summer months.

5. World Cafe Live at the Queen: Located in Wilmington’s historic Queen Theater building, this music venue features a mix of local and national acts across various genres.

6. Firefly Music Festival: A multi-day music festival held annually in Dover featuring popular artists from various genres.

7. Clear Space Theatre Company: A community theatre group in Rehoboth Beach known for its professional quality productions of Broadway musicals and plays.

These venues often attract large crowds of both locals and tourists who come to Delaware specifically for their events and performances.

15. Are there any state-sponsored tours that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and history of Delaware?


Yes, there are several state-sponsored tours available in Delaware that offer a unique cultural and historical experience for visitors. Some examples include:

1. The DuPont Mansions Tour: This tour takes visitors through the opulent mansions built by the influential DuPont family in the 19th and 20th centuries, giving insight into their lives and impact on Delaware’s history.

2. The African American History Trail: This self-guided tour highlights important sites related to African American history in Delaware, including stops such as the Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park and the Underground Railroad network.

3. The Culinary Tour of Wilmington: This food-focused tour allows visitors to sample local delicacies and learn about the city’s diverse culinary traditions while also getting to know its people and neighborhoods.

4. Historical Walking Tours: Offered in various cities throughout Delaware, these tours take visitors through historic districts, sharing stories and facts about significant landmarks and events.

5. First State Heritage Park Events and Programs: Located in Dover, this park offers a variety of guided tours, hands-on experiences, and educational programs that allow visitors to deepen their understanding of Delaware’s rich history.

Overall, these state-sponsored tours provide opportunities for immersive learning experiences that showcase different aspects of Delaware’s culture and heritage.

16. What type of architecture can be found at popular tourist spots in Delaware?


Some popular tourist spots in Delaware feature colonial, Victorian, and Gothic Revival architecture.

17. In which parts of Delaware can you find breathtaking views that easily capture the hearts of tourists?


Some of the most beautiful views in Delaware can be found in areas such as Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware Seashore State Park, the Brandywine Valley region, and the rolling hills of New Castle County. Other scenic spots include the beaches of Rehoboth, Bethany, and Fenwick Island, as well as various nature preserves and historic sites throughout the state.

18. Is it possible to witness wildlife in their natural habitat while visiting tourist hotspots in Delaware?


Yes, it is possible to witness wildlife in their natural habitat while visiting tourist hotspots in Delaware. Some popular areas for wildlife viewing include Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, both located on Delaware’s scenic coast. These refuges offer opportunities to see a variety of birds, including migrating waterfowl, as well as other animals such as deer, foxes, and turtles. Other places to spot wildlife include Fenwick Island State Park and Trap Pond State Park, which are known for their pristine woodlands and wetlands that are home to a diverse array of creatures. Additionally, there are several nature centers and guided tours available throughout the state that offer educational and interactive wildlife experiences.

19. Do any of the Delaware’s tourist attractions offer guided tours or interactive experiences for visitors?


Yes, many of Delaware’s tourist attractions offer guided tours and interactive experiences for visitors. Some examples include:

1. Nemours Estate: This mansion and gardens offer guided tours of the estate, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the DuPont family home and its history.

2. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: This former DuPont estate also offers guided tours of the mansion and garden, as well as self-guided audio tours.

3. Delaware Seashore State Park: Visitors can take part in guided kayak tours through the park’s scenic waterways or join a ranger-led program to learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem.

4. Historic New Castle: Visitors can take a walking tour led by costumed guides to explore this colonial town’s rich history.

5. Brandywine Zoo: The zoo offers guided tours with animal encounters and behind-the-scenes access to various exhibits.

6. Wilmington & Western Railroad: Visitors can ride on a historic steam locomotive while enjoying views of the countryside on these guided train tours.

7. Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village: This living history museum offers guided interactive tours where visitors can learn about traditional farm life in Delaware.

8. Fort Delaware State Park: Guests can take a ferry to this Civil War-era fort and participate in immersive living history programs led by costumed interpreters.

9. Cape May-Lewes Ferry: Along with ferry rides, visitors can take part in narrated historical cruises or lighthouse exploration cruises while onboard.

10. Air Mobility Command Museum: Visitors can take free docent-led tours of this military aviation museum to learn about the history of Dover Air Force Base and see over 30 aircraft on display.

20. Through which mediums does Delaware promote its diverse range of tourist attractions globally?


Delaware promotes its diverse range of tourist attractions globally through various mediums, such as:

1. Digital marketing: Delaware uses social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to showcase its tourist attractions and reach a global audience.

2. Official tourism website: The state has an official tourism website, VisitDelaware.com, which provides comprehensive information about all the popular destinations, events, and activities in the state.

3. Travel guides and brochures: Delaware produces travel guides and brochures that highlight the state’s top attractions and distribute them at tourism fairs, trade shows, and visitor centers.

4. Print advertising: The state advertises in international publications targeting potential travelers, including magazines, newspapers, and travel guides.

5. Television commercials: Delaware runs television commercials on popular channels to promote its key attractions and experiences to a wider audience.

6. Co-operative marketing campaigns: The state collaborates with airlines, hotels, tour operators, and other businesses in the travel industry to launch co-operative marketing campaigns in various markets worldwide.

7. Influencer partnerships: Delaware partners with travel influencers who have significant followings on their blogs or social media platforms to promote the state’s unique experiences to their audiences.

8. Public relations efforts: The state leverages public relations efforts to secure positive coverage in international media outlets through press releases, familiarization trips for journalists, and hosting international media representatives for tours and events.

9. Trade shows and exhibitions: Delaware participates in various trade shows and exhibitions targeted at travel industry professionals worldwide to network and attract new visitors.

10. Partnership with neighboring states: The state collaborates with neighboring states like Maryland and Pennsylvania to promote regional tourism packages that feature attractions from both states.