6 Must-Visit Storybook Towns in Delaware for Your Next Adventure

Thedailymiaminews– The small towns of Delaware are like the chapters of a storybook, with the historical town of Lewes serving as the prologue. Dover, with its colonial charm, is the center of the plot. Newark is the academic chapter, full with the excitement of university life, while Ocean View provides a peaceful break where art and nature encourage contemplation. The book’s climax is in Bethany Beach, where the ocean breezes are warm. Rehoboth Beach, with its famous boardwalk that is full of nostalgia, is where the story ends, leaving behind lasting recollections of time well spent. These six storybook villages are worth re-reading at any time of the year when you visit.

Lewes

History enthusiasts will find Lewes to be an interesting place to explore because of its rich culture and profound maritime and military history, which dates back to before the Revolutionary War and continues to the present day. Lewes is known as the “First Town in the First State.” The Zwaanendael Museum honors the town of Lewes, which was dubbed Zwaanendael (meaning “Swan Valley”) by the first Dutch immigrants who came to the area in 1631. You may visit the Cannonball House Maritime Museum, which is located in the historic district. This museum escaped cannon fire during the War of 1812. You can also visit the RyvesHolt House, which is a landmark from 1665 and is considered as one of the oldest surviving houses in Delaware and the United States.

To learn more about Lewes’ history, visit the Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area in Cape Henlopen State Park, which is located on the Atlantic Ocean. The fort, which was part of the country’s defense during World War II, is now an artillery park. Battery 519, one of the several subterranean bunkers in the park, is where the museum is located.

Dover

Delaware’s state capital, Dover, is full of colonial architecture and historical sites like the First State Heritage Park on the historic Dover Green, where costumed interpreters greet visitors at the park’s Welcome Center with tours and special events to highlight the town’s history in buildings like the John Bell Interpretive Center, built in the mid-1700s, and the Old State House, which was built in 1791 and served as the state capitol until 1933. Visitors can visit an 18th-century courtroom in the state house. The second floor houses the chambers of the state legislature and a famous painting of George Washington and numerous war heroes. The Colonial Market Fair, which takes place every year, has a market on the Green where woodworkers, blacksmiths, brewers, and soapmakers showcase their crafts, bringing the past to life.

See also  California’s Conservative Strongholds: Top 10 Cities in 2025

Newark

The University of Delaware, which was founded in 1743 and is one of the oldest universities in the United States, is located in Newark, a city that has a lively and diverse campus atmosphere. Take some time to visit the beautiful campus where former students of all ages can relive their own storybook memories of college days by going to the University of Delaware Botanic Gardens and its year-round gardens, which are open to the public for free. Next door, you may help the students at the university who work at the UDairy Creamery by purchasing a tub of ice cream. They have more than 34 flavors prepared on-site with milk from the Agriculture College’s dairy farm.

Visit the Newark Historical Society’s History Museum, which has displays from 1758 to the present. It is located at the nearby 1877 Pennsylvania Railroad Station. The museum is located on the Newark Heritage Trail, which is a self-guided walking path that leads to historic buildings and downtown shops and eateries, such as Caffé Gelato. In addition to Italian ice cream, it offers house-made pasta and a wine list that has been recognized by Wine Spectator.

Ocean View

Take a storybook with you on this delightful trip to the little village of Ocean View. Take pleasure in the relaxed atmosphere of the shore, which is ideal for a peaceful vacation. Take a stroll around the James Farm Ecological Preserve, a wilderness paradise located on the southern shore of Indian River Bay. People looking for peace and quiet can unwind on a tranquil beach by the bay, watch local plants and animals, or explore three miles of paths through seven different habitats, including sandy beaches, marshes, and the shade of a hardwood forest.

See also  Understanding Life in Michigan's Most Dangerous Town: What’s Happening and Why

The Ellen Rice Studio of Fine Art, which is located close to the preserve, is a must-see for anybody who appreciate nature and art. The artist, who is recognized across the country, is known for her inspiring landscapes and seascapes of Delaware. The studio also features other artists from Delaware, including those who work in fine art, sculpture, pottery, and jewelry. Finally, golf lovers who wish to practice their swing indoors every day of the year can do so at The Foreland Club, which is located in Ocean View.

Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach is a small, beautiful beach town that has a quiet, family-friendly charm. Visitors to Bethany Beach can enjoy a more relaxed boardwalk experience than they would at the busier Rehoboth Beach boardwalk. The town’s center is made up of wooden planks that were built in 1905. Along the road, there are unique stores such as Bethany Beach Books, the trendy Bethany Surf Shop, Tidepool Toys, coffee cafes, and pizza stands.

Take a short journey to Fenwick Island and check out the historic lighthouse, which was built in 1858. If you have children with you, you absolutely have to visit the Viking Golf and Thunder Lagoon attractions. Families may spend hours here playing 19-hole miniature golf, taking a whirl around an exhilarating go-kart circuit, or splashing about in the waterpark. If you want to round off this fantastic day in Bethany Beach with a delicious dessert, go to the Hersey’s Island Creamery.

Rehoboth Beach

Rehoboth Beach is a vibrant beach town with a tiny population of 1,500 locals, which grows to nearly 25,000 visitors every summer. The town is reminiscent of family vacations taken by car in the past, with its nostalgic boardwalk, colorful beach cottages, and welcoming atmosphere. It features a mix of attractions, including mini golf courses like Nick’s Mini Golf, which is themed after Jurassic Park, arcades like Funland, which opened in 1962, and Candy Kitchen, a family-owned business that has been pulling taffy and dipping chocolate since 1937.

See also  US Triumph: The U.S. economy boosted at a blistering 3.3% pace in Q4 while inflation fell

Visitors should take advantage of the state’s tax-free shopping at the Tanger Outlets and Coral Cove, or stop by the eccentric shops on the boardwalk for souvenir t-shirts and shell necklaces, when they are not at the beach. If you want to enjoy a bucket of french fries with your family, go to Thrasher’s French Fries, which is one of the most famous spots at the beach. If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, you may have beer-battered fish and chips at Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant.

Delaware’s storybook towns combine history, charm, and beautiful scenery. Lewes has a rich maritime history that beckons research, while Dover features attractions such as the Old State House and hosts the vibrant Colonial Market Fair. The University of Delaware, UDairy Creamery, and historic walking trails are all part of the lively student scene of Newark. Ocean View is a peaceful getaway that features the James Farm Ecological Preserve and local art at the Ellen Rice Studio. Bethany Beach has a boardwalk that is great for families, while Rehoboth Beach has exciting attractions and shopping without taxes, which brings back fond memories.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *