7 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Delaware

Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the US, but what it lacks in size is that it makes up for a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.

The state’s coastline is adorned with gorgeous beaches, such as Bethany Beach, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. To the East lies Delaware Bay, which is an ecological hotspot for marine and avian life.

It is also home to several state parks, such as Cape Henlopen State Park, located in the small town of Lewes. Suffice it to say that Delaware is a state worth visiting. Some of the best stops on your Delaware journey should include at least one of these seven charming, picturesque small towns.

Lewes

With a population of around 3,500, Lewes is a quiet yet welcoming walking town. The town was founded in 1631, and its residents proudly claim it to be "The First Town in the First State," and it is situated at the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.

Located close to Lewes is the Cape Henlopen State Park. It consists of 5,193 acres of beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The park also boasts an 18-hole golf course, picnic pavilion, and bird sanctuary and is home to the Pineland Nature Trail, which is perfect for a nature walk.

Located downtown is the town’s historic district, which features residential homes from the Victorian period in famous styles such as the Second Empire and Queen Anne, which are worth a look at.

New Castle

New Castle is a colonial town with historic buildings and picture-perfect cobblestone streets. The town has 5,300 residents and overlooks the Delaware River.

Almost every building (victorian, Federal, or Georgian) has historical significance and is superbly preserved. For example, the local tavern was built in 1674, and the real estate office was constructed in 1738.

Situated on the Delaware waterfront is Battery Park. The park has 1.5 miles of biking or walking trails and offers scenic views of the river. Also located in the park is the 1832 Frenchtown Railroad Ticket Office, a tiny building that was part of the Civil War railroad period.

Milton

A quaint small town with only 2,900 residents, Milton is located along the Boradkill River, where visitors can kayak and fish or enjoy a river cruise. Just two miles away is Delaware’s most visited preserve, the Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve, which is another big attraction.

Canoeing down the river, hiking, and birdwatching (over 100 species) are everyday activities at the preserve. For those traveling without children, the Dogfish Head Brewery is a popular stop. It is a craft beer brewery where you can enjoy tours and tasting.

Nature lovers can also enjoy Delaware’s only free lavender farm - the Lavender Fields at Warrington Manor. The farm also has a Cottage Store, Bee and Butterfly Garden, and Dahlia Garden.

Odessa

Odessa is a tiny town with a mere 380 people. Despite its small size, Odessa is full of history. Odessa is a National Registry District, has two National Parks Service Network to Freedom sites, and a National Historic Landmark (Corbit Sharp House).

The Corbit Sharp House is a Philadelphia-Georgian-style house museum built in 1774. It is open to visitors and is decorated with 18th-century furnishings to reflect the age.

For walking and sports, most visitors head to one of Odessa’s two parks - Odessa Memorial Park, with a walking/biking path and basketball court, and Old Academy Park, which is quieter and has a tennis court, picnic tables, and play equipment.

Smyrna

Part of Delaware’s Quaint Villages, Smyrna is a charming community with 12,000 residents, many of whom are artists. The village was founded in 1716 and originally named Salisbury; it was renamed in 1806.

Belmont Hall and its surrounding gardens are one of the town's best attractions. Constructed in 1773, it is a Georgian-style mansion where visitors go to learn about the town’s history and enjoy the grounds.

When visiting, don’t miss a stop at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. It is a great place to see local wildlife and birds. The refuge has three observation decks, five trails, and a 12-mile wildlife drive.

Georgetown

Seven thousand people call Georgetown, Delaware home. Nestled in the heart of Sussex County, the town’s center is known as ‘The Circle.’ It is lined with several historic buildings, including the Sussex County Courthouse, built in 1873, and the Georgetown Town Hall.

The Marvel Carriage Museum is one of Georgetown’s most prominent attractions. It is an antique museum which displays Nutter Marvel Carriages. The museum grounds are dotted with several restored historic buildings like the 1833 Ellis School, two barns, a blacksmith’s shop, and a Methodist church.

Ten minutes away and to the North of Georgetown is Redden State Forest. It is a 13,969-acre forest that offers visitors horseback riding, camping, and hunting, among other fun activities.

Bethany Beach

A family-friendly seaside town, Bethany Beach is a tranquil place to visit, with pristine beaches and a small but welcoming population of 1,200 residents. Tax-free shopping is one of the best features of the small town. Visitors can shop in town or down by the Bethany Beach Broadwalk.

Most visitors head to the beach for family-friendly activities like swimming, building sand castles, or enjoying some delicious salt-water taffy. The boardwalk is a half-mile long and perfect for an afternoon stroll or jog.

Located just 7 minutes away is the Delaware Seashore State Park, which is North of Bethany Beach. Open all year round from 8 am to sunset, that park has a campground and six miles of bay shoreline and ocean.

Experience Delaware's Unforgettable Charm

If you plan on visiting Delaware, be sure to check out these seven charming, picturesque small towns. With its cobblestoned streets, each town offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty without the crowds.

There is an abundance of activities for couples, families, and individuals seeking to explore this region of the U.S. No matter which town you choose to visit, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.