You can see one of the historic buildings from this early period. White Hall, also known as the William Cann Tenant House and Andrew Elliason Tenant House, remains standing in Bear today. Construction of the Greek Revival/Italianate style building began in 1830, and work continued off and on until 1860. Outbuildings also remain on the property, including a dairy barn, milk house, and shed, which date to the 1930s. This rural area went from farming to suburbia in the 1980s and '90s. Today, about 17,500 people live in Bear, Delaware, many of them young families.
Retail shopping and commerce have always been a part of the town's DNA. Today, that tradition continues at nearby Christiana Mall, the largest mall in the State of Delaware, and given Delaware's zero sales tax policy, it is a big draw for the region. Be sure to visit the Christiana Mall during your visit to Bear to stock up on clothing and accessories from Nordstrom, Macy's, JCPenney, and Target, or peruse the shelves at Barnes & Noble and Cabela's, as well as a host of other boutiques and branded stores. You can spend the whole day here, dining at the food court and ending the day at Cinemark Theatres nearby.
What time of year is best to visit Bear, DE?
Bear enjoys a mild climate most of the year, with winters averaging in the low to mid-40s, pleasant springs and falls, and warm summers in the mid to upper 80s. Rainfall and precipitation are fairly steady year round. If you're planning to hike or boat, you can do so nearly year round, provided you check the forecast before you set out.
Delaware has plenty of festivals ongoing throughout the year, but one of the most treasured local traditions isn't an organized affair. It's a labor of love called Santa Claus Lane, one local resident's mission to bring a smile to every face with the most impressive lights display a private citizen can muster. Between the lights on every inch of the house, the soundtrack, and occasional live-action Santa appearances, you can't miss this Bear holiday tradition. The lights are so bright that you can see the house from many blocks away.
Some years, the house has a theme, like the Grinch or White Christmas. Sometimes Santa even shows up on the roof! He will come down to take pictures and talk with children. The site accepts toy donations for Toys for Tots, as well as donations for the lights display, but there is no cost to come. It's a labor of love.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Bear, DE:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Bear, DE. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the least expensive time to make a reservation in Bear throughout the year.
What are the Bear, DE luxury hotels?
4 Star Average Prices: $147.85
If you plan to shop at Christiana Mall during your stay, consider the Four Points by Sheraton Newark Christiana Wilmington. This convenient and luxurious hotel is located just 10 miles away from the popular mall and just minutes from Bear, Delaware. The hotel features modern, urban-style finishing in a rustic, industrial style that still manages to give off a warm welcome. Travelers love the cool exposed brick and exposed Edison bulbs that make this the up-to-date regional property for the style-obsessed. There are a bistro and lounge on the ground floor, so you don't have to worry about finding a food option after checking in. Enjoy a martini and a decadent appetizer, or tuck into a savory burger cooked to order. Breakfast is also available for a surcharge, or you can really indulge with room service during select hours.
Guest rooms are outfitted with LCD flat-screen televisions and cable programming, so you'll be entertained once you settle in for the night. Free wired and wireless internet also keeps you connected during your stay. Whether you're a fitness fanatic or simply need to stay on track with your workout schedule while you're traveling, Four Points by Sheraton's 24-hour fitness center is there for your convenience.
What options are in Bear, DE for the most affordable hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $119.49
If you need an affordable hotel near the University of Delaware, consider Baymont by Wyndham Newark at the University of Delaware. This value hotel welcomes guests with home-like rooms that include fridges, microwaves, desks, and complimentary wireless internet access. In the bathroom, you will find a hair dryer for your use during your stay, plus handy free toiletries. Brew up a cup of coffee as you are getting ready in your room, then head downstairs to enjoy a full, free breakfast reception, offered every day of the week.
Business travelers staying at the Baymont by Wyndham Newark will appreciate the business center, where printing any last-minute documents for a meeting or conference is quick and easy. You don't even have to leave the hotel, because there are meeting rooms on site. Should you need additional high-touch service, speak to the associates at the 24-hour help desk. They can even help coordinate dry cleaning or laundry service if you're staying for the long haul.