Delaware's tourism economy has performed better than expected since 2008 to 2015 according to survey conducted by local offices. According to the studies, Delaware was an "unassuming" place that held surprises including "mansions, beaches" and things that have travelers saying, "I didn't realize this was in Delaware."

If anything, travelers view Delaware as the traditional Dover with its native scenery of "Old America" vibe. But Delaware gained 1.6 million new travelers not just because of Dover's NASCAR and racing heritage or its historical tourism focused on the Delaware Agricultural Museum and art. According to News Works, data from Delaware Tourism Director Linda Parkowski said travelers went for "zip lines, beautiful parks, sceneries, mansions and beaches."

Delaware is lesser known for it, but beaches such as Bethany Beach are quiet, isolated and made of white sand. Travelers can prop up their umbrellas and relax throughout the afternoon while trekking the Indian River Inlet Bridge or walking about the Bethany Beach Boardwalk.

When in Bear, ziplines do exist and they are quite lengthy and satisfying. In the Lums Pond State Park is a course that includes four zip lines that overlook the entire 200 acres of the beautiful pond. One service provider, Go Ape, mentioned they had made sure that their course "blends beautifully within the landscape of pond and park."

According to TripAdvisor, botanical gardens such as the Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper Creek might seem like tourist traps but they are overwhelmingly beautiful with their picturesque display of nature at all angles. Another is the Mt Cuba Center with a 630-acre botanical garden just a kilometer away from Pepper Creek.

D-Delaware Governor John Carney said Delaware is slowly becoming "a best kept secret" location for some people especially for shopping travelers. Delaware features tax-free shopping and huge supermarkets -- with proof that most shoppers arrive from New York City, Washington DC and Baltimore. Along Rehoboth Beach is the Tanger Outlet featuring prominent brands free of taxes. In Newark is the Christiana Mall for better selections.