12 Gorgeous Delaware Towns To Visit In 2023
The Mid-Atlantic State of Delaware is known for its beaches, its lack of sales tax, and being the first U.S. state. From miles of coastline and seafood to the small charming towns resting along the Atlantic Coast, Delaware is a small state with a big personality that punches far above its weight. Visit The Diamond State and experience the history and tradition of Delaware's small towns. You will not be disappointed.
Lewes
The town of Lewes is the oldest in Delaware, so calling it historic would be an understatement. Lewes sits between the Great Marsh Preserve and Cape Henlopen State Park, two natural attractions which should not be missed. Walk through the wetlands or lay down a towel at pristine beaches. The town itself is also excellent. Lewes' Cannonball House and Zwaanendael Museum both have exciting exhibits and displays of maritime culture, while the Pirates of Lewes is great for families of young children who enjoy a good sword fight and sea shanty.
Milton
Sitting at the mouth of the Broadkill River near Delaware Bay, Milton is a visually appealing riverside town perfect for people who love the great outdoors. Kayaking, fishing, golfing, and hiking are all on offer in town. There are plenty of events in town as well. The Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival and the Holly Festival bring the town to life each year. Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary attraction? Visit the famed Dogfish Head Brewery and its steampunk treehouse for a truly memorable experience. The town also has almost 200 registered historic buildings to see as well.
Odessa
Founded in the 18th century, the village of Odessa was originally named Cantwell's Bridge. Odessa is home to incredibly well-preserved Colonial architecture, a national historic landmark, and two National Parks Service Network to Freedom sites. Stroll its tree-lined streets and view this lovely little historic village's restored 18th and 19th-century homes. Odessa is on the National Register of Historic Places due to its important role in the Underground Railroad and contains a section of the official railroad's byway. Visit Corbit-Sharp House, built in 1774, and the Appoquinimink Friends Meeting House, which was erected in 1783, to learn more about this historic village.
Rehoboth Beach
Only a few minutes from the town of Lewes on the other side of Cape Henlopen State Park is Rehoboth Beach. With a population of roughly 1,200, amazing shopping, and a relaxed beach atmosphere, Rehoboth Beach is one of the best small towns in the state. There is a thriving LGBTQ community here, and the region is known for its craft breweries. Dig into Delaware's famed seafood at Finn's or Bushel's. Take advantage of Delaware's zero sales tax policy at the Tanger Outlets for brand-name shopping or along the small businesses along the boardwalk.
Bethany Beach
Found nearby Rehoboth and Lewes, the town of Bethany Beach is perfect for visitors looking for some peace of mind. The town is exceedingly calm and punctuated by the refreshing ocean air. Meander along the boardwalk, which runs parallel to the coastline, or soak up the sun on the scenic beach. Delaware Seashore State Park and Fenwick Island State Park are found nearby and are frequented by anglers, kayakers, hikers, surfers, and more. The parks are perfect places to watch the sunset before heading back to town for the amazing seafood at Off the Hook or Bethany Boathouse.
Hockessin
With a population nearing 15,000, Hockessin is larger than most other towns mentioned above. Hockessin also may be one of Delaware's best-kept secrets. Nature lovers will want to visit the town's many attractions, including the Ashland Nature Center, which has an incredible butterfly house. Visit the Mt. Cuba Center, which is called the gardening epicenter of Delaware! It is also a great place for a picnic due to its beautiful greenery. Ride the historic Wilmington and Western Railroad, a rolling museum that carries riders between Greenbank Station to Hockessin.
Millsboro
On the other side of the state sits the enchanting town of Millsboro. This lovely river town has so much to offer visitors, from delicious food to outdoor activities and historical sights. Visit the Indian River, which is one of the best places to see a sunset. Millsboro's Cupola Park is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. Have a picnic under the picturesque gazebo amongst the trees with a pretty river view. Have some highly-regarded Mexican food at La Tonalteca or jumbo lump crab at Paradise Pub. Lastly, try and time your visit with the annual Nanticoke Indian Tribe pow-wow, one of the best events in the state.
New Castle
Visit the town of New Castle, where cobblestone streets wind between Colonial brick buildings. Learn about New Castle's history by joining one of the guided tours or by visiting one of the three museums in town. New Castle is the second most important Colonial/Federal village in the country after Williamsburg. During the winter months, New Castle hosts many seasonal events, including The Spirit of Christmas, which includes live music, crafts, and historically-accurate costumes. History buffs will want to visit Jessop's Tavern, a restaurant with modern menu items found inside a 300-year-old building.
Wyoming
An hour south of New Castle, Wyoming, is ranked as the second-best place to live in the state. This charming farm town of 1,500 people is serene and remote. It is a beautiful place to detox and decompress amongst the flowers and verdant green fields. Stop by Fifer Orchards, a family-run U-pick farm selling apple cider, donuts, and pumpkin pie. Historic Brecknock Park is home to Howell's Mill, a historic farmhouse built in the 18th century. Piccadilly Castle is a fantastic playground and is a must-see for families.
Arden
Beautiful, unique, and tiny. The town of Arden is all of these things and more. Founded in 1900 by the famed architect Will Price and sculptor Frank Stephens, the town was established as a utopian community and is included on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety. Many of the beautiful homes were designed by Price and have unique names, such as Green Gate and The Lodge. The Frank Stephens Memorial Theater hosts summer performances put on by the Arden Shakespeare Gild, while the Arden Gild Hall hosts concerts and live events all year.
Seaford
The town of Seaford is known for its stellar beaches and outdoor recreation opportunities. Begin your exploration at the Seaford Museum, which offers exhibits on early agriculture, railroads, and Patty Cannon, the greatest Murderess in U.S. history. For more history, the Governor Ross Mansion and Plantation, which was built in the 19th century and has a museum of its own. Phillips Landing Park is a popular place to go birdwatching, fishing, and hiking as well. The park is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Kitts Hummock
Roughly an hour north of Seaford, the town of Kitts Hummock sits on the picturesque Delaware Bay. Kitts Hummock is a favorite vacation spot for those trying to beat the heat and the crowds at the same time. The town is a registered horseshoe crab sanctuary, and the beach here often crawls with thousands of crabs. Fishing is popular here as trout, croaker, and flounder can be caught right from the beach. The beaches here are muddy but are good places to launch stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.
Delaware has so many beautiful beaches to its credit. Some of the loveliest towns in the Mid-Atlantic are found on these picturesque beaches. Delaware has no state taxes, making it a premier shopping destination, but visitors should be sure to stop by the many wonderful small towns the state has to offer. Here, a rich history and culture are waiting to be explored. Delaware is not called The Diamond State for nothing.
