Delaware is one of the few states that has no national parks, national battlefields, or national monuments, but there are still plenty of reasons to visit this small, northeastern state. Vacation homes in Delaware are located in and around a wealth of historic places connected to such key events in United States history as the American Revolution. Tourist sites of interest also include wildlife refuges and some of the most historic lighthouses in on the eastern seaboard, and for those interested in more modern engineering and technology, a drive across the Delaware Memorial Bridge is not to be missed; it is a twin span suspension bridge and ranks as the second longest such bridge in the world.
Beach resorts are also an important part of Delaware tourism. Towns such as Rothmore Beach, Dewey Beach, Bethany Beach, and Fenwick Island welcome visitors every spring and summer. Rothmore Beach is known as "The Nation's Summer Capital, because each July and August it fills up with vacationers form Washington, D.C. who come to Delaware not only to enjoy the surf and sand but also to enjoy the pleasant small-town atmosphere, a welcome contrast from the hustle and bustle of the nation's capital city. Rothmore Beach is also popular with tourists from Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Like all visitors to this beach resort, they enjoy tax-free shopping.
Delaware is also notable for the World Championship Punkin Chunkin' event, which is held at several locations each spring. In this event, competitors construct catapults to throw pumpkins, competing for distance.