8 Undiscovered Small Towns in Delaware
Delaware holds a fascinating blend of the finer things in life, including high-end dining experiences and luxurious hotels mixed with rural and rugged landscapes. This small state, the second smallest with only Rhode Island being smaller, has only three counties but still manages to hold beach resorts, watersports, hiking, cycling, woodlands, and much more. For the history lover, it is also an ideal location to explore, as it was the first state to sign the Constitution, making it the first official state of the Union. Over the years, it was home to several Native American tribes who hunted the land, early settlers from Europe who established homes across the state, and bombings along the shore during times of war. Historical societies well preserve all of this history, and tourists can visit the many undiscovered small towns across the state to see and learn all about its unique and exciting past and present.
Bowers Beach
Bowers Beach is probably one of Delaware’s best-kept secrets. It boasts a population of just under 300 regular residents, making it a close-knit, welcoming community. The small town was known as Whitwell’s Delight back in the 1600s and has the honor of being one of the first European settlements along Delaware Bay. The area came under the ownership of Nathaniel and Mary Hunn, who passed the ownership onto their children after Nathaniel passed away. They later sold the land to John Bowers, from whom the town got its name.
The Bowers Beach Museum is a great place to start exploring, especially for anyone looking to better understand the town’s past. The museum operates annually from Memorial Day until Labor Day, housing some of the town’s early artifacts and celebrating the community’s connection with the water. Another historical landmark worth checking out while touring is the Saxton United Methodist Church. The original gable-peeked, Gothic-style structure dates back to its dedication in 1879 and was named for its patron, John Saxton.
The area's natural charm makes Bowers Beach a great option for those who love the great outdoors. To begin with, the shore, also known as Bowers Beach, offers visitors easy access to the calm waters of Delaware Bay. The waters of the bay and nearby waterways, notably the Saint Jones and the Murderkill Rivers, provide a spectacular environment for watersports and recreational activities. Fishing is a favorite pastime, with the jetty along the coastline further enhancing the experience.
Millsboro
Millsboro, as the name suggests, owes much of its early history to the building of several mills in the area near the first point of the Indian River. There is much history to see in the community, including the Perry House (also called the Shockley House) on the downtown main street, which dates back to 1901 and is a fine example of the popular Queen Anne style of the day. Additionally, the Godwin School, a one-room schoolhouse, is a monument to the town’s commitment to learning. This white building has charming green trim and still houses the original water pump once used by the students. It operated from its construction in 1897 until 1936, and today, it is available for visitors to explore on their travels through Delaware.
For nature explorers and leisurely travelers, there is also nearly no end to activities in the surrounding areas and downtown. Cupola Park, a favorite haunt for locals and tourists alike, lies along Millsboro Pond and is the ideal place to spend a sunny day outside. The park has a pavilion, barbecue areas, fishing opportunities, and places to launch a boat, which makes it perfect for visitors of all ages. The Country Kitchen is a fantastic diner where you can finish a long day and get some country comfort food in a wholesome, warm environment.
Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach is a lovely tourist spot, with its beaches and pristine coastlines being the main attraction. However, the community was not always a tourist destination with endless stretches of seaside boardwalks and shopping opportunities. The land once belonged to the native Nanticoke peoples, whose influence and heritage can be viewed and appreciated by visiting the Totem Pole, known as Chief Little Owl, located near the city's entrance.
In 1901, the town saw its first building dedicated, and ever since then, it has expanded as a local seaside haven and retreat center. Today, Bethany Beach continues to cherish and maintain this legacy, with places like the Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn providing a luxurious time with stunning views of the ocean sands. Although for a truly historic immersion in the community’s past luxury, the Addy Sea is the place to stay. The Addy Sea gives visitors a rich experience staying in one of the town’s historic structures, which first began hosting visitors during the Great Depression. Today, guests are treated to rustic-styled rooms with ocean views, as well as complimentary breakfasts and other services.
Other must-see sights include the boardwalk, home to sites like the Bethany Beach Bandstand, events such as the Arts Festival and the Posideon Festival, and lots of diverse dining at spots like 99 Sea Level. The nearby Freeman Pavilion is a favorite place for locals to gather and celebrate various holidays, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
Clayton
Clayton has a unique reputation for being located within both Kent and New Castle County, with small portions of the incorporated regions sitting within the latter county. Its central position makes it perfect for anyone hoping to explore the surrounding regions. Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley area are only around an hour away, and the Poconos and Washington D.C. areas are right around two hours away.
Its economic history was primarily based on its role as a railroad hub for shipping agricultural goods between the Northern and Southern states, which is still a big part of the town. Guests to town can take a peek at this railroad by visiting the Clayton Railroad Station, a restored, red brick building where visitors can view early photos of the station and even host an event. Other historical landmarks that are worth checking out while in town include Byrd’s African Methodist Episcopal Church and St. Joseph's Industrial School.
For nature lovers, the Wheatley Pond is a great place to visit while trekking through town. Just around 6 miles north of town, usually under a 10-minute drive by car, is the Blackbird State Forest. The forest comprises ten tracts of land that are free to visit and enjoy. These sites are available for hiking, cycling, jogging, and even horseback riding all year. The park is even accessible for those using a wheelchair, with a charming half-mile trail that is completely wheelchair friendly and showcases the lovely natural charm of Delaware.
Smyrna
Smyrna traces its history back to before the founding of the country and the Revolutionary War when it was a tiny settlement known as Salisbury. However, thanks to its proximity to local waterways, such as Duck Creek, the community was often called by this creek’s name, Duck Creek. The Delaware General Assembly officially gave the town its modern name in 1806 and established its official boundaries. Today, visitors can explore the city’s early days at sites like the Duck Creek Historical Society. The historical society keeps some unique displays showcasing the history of not only Smyrna but also of the whole state, with exhibits like the Revolutionary War Room and more locally themed displays such as the Be My Valentine display.
Another notable site owned by the Duck Creek Historical Society is The Plank House. The small home was saved from demolition by the historical society and is one of the only remaining examples of early Swedish Delaware plank dwelling architecture in the community. Lovers of the arts should spend some time at the Smyrna Opera House on W South Street, which is an example of the city’s continued dedication to the arts. Just outside the town's borders is the gorgeous Big Oak County Park, also home to the Delaware Aero Space Education Foundation for Space and Earth Science.
Milton
Early on in the history of Milton, the town’s uniquely beneficial geographical location was quite evident. Its position near the Broadkill River and Delaware Bay means the city has experienced economic success. However, since it was not situated directly along the ocean, it did not see many naval battles or invasions throughout its peaceful history. Today, the river serves as the source for the local pond, known as Wagamons Pond, near the Milton Memorial Park. The pond and the nearby park are the perfect places to enjoy a sunny weekend morning outdoors. Another popular nature spot just outside of town is the Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve. The park was donated as a nature preserve by Constance McCabe, who owned the land as an inheritance from her family, which led to the creation of the 143-acre park in Delaware today. The park is a great place for a hike, bike ride, or jog, with beautiful natural landscapes and plenty of wildlife to view.
The downtown areas of Milton are fantastic for those looking for some good shopping, food, drink, and a night out on the town. Visiting the Dogfish Head Milton Brewery is great for almost every desire and need, including food, locally brewed beer, and so much more. Another great place to try while exploring downtown is Zava Cafe, where tourists can grab high-quality coffee and try one of the weekly specials.
Lewes
Lewes holds the title of Delaware’s first European settlement. It was settled by the Dutch in 1631. However, it did not gain the status of an official town until 1818. Its history, culture, and development into the rustic community it is today set this community apart. The local historical society does most of the heavy lifting to preserve and record the city’s unique past, which includes maintaining a museum and several historic homes and buildings.
The History Museum and Archives are a must-see. In addition to housing thousands of historical artifacts, they preserve local art pieces. The center also hosts symposiums, lectures, and other fun educational events that will entertain people of all ages. Some upcoming and recent events include the Inaugural Cannon Ball Gala and several walking tours through Lewes. While not all these events are or will be held at the museum, the historical society is the main organizer of these events.
Other historic spots to check out include the Cannonball House and Historic Museum, which dates back to the 1700s. Its most astounding feature is the fact that during the War of 1812, this small house was the only surviving home in the area after the British bombed the community for close to 22 hours. Other attractions worth spending some time at are the Big Oyster Brewery, which is housed in a large, beautiful red barn, and the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, where shoppers can buy locally and support cultivating locally grown produce.
Dewey Beach
Dewey Beach was only officially established around 40 years ago when it was officially named the Commissioners of Dewey Beach, and the town's borders were laid out in 1981. The beaches were and still are the main draw to this small town, known for the extensive stretches of white sand, which are pristinely clean and welcoming. It has the Atlantic Ocean stretching out to the east, making for some wonderful swimming and watersports in the summer. Dewey Beach Watersports is a town company dedicated to helping tourists and townsfolk alike spend their lives exploring the town’s waters via one of their many jet skis.
As a resort town, there are numerous hotels and other places to stay while visiting and lots of fine dining and drinks to enjoy. Beach House Dewey is an excellent option for anyone seeking a delightful environment close to the shore that’s also relatively affordable. Those who want a more calming environment should consider booking a stay at the Bay Resort Waterfront Hotel, which has charming views of the town’s pristine bay. Woody’s Dewey Beach serves up famous crab cakes, which have long held the unofficial title as the best around, as well as amazing burgers, fries, and a diverse late-night menu of drinks.
Final Thoughts
There is something about the charm of Delaware that, despite its small size, it managed to attract over 29 million tourists in 2023. The state’s tourism industry is the fourth largest private employer, which stands as a monument to the appeal of this marvelous location. Although the state’s pristine, calm, and historic shorelines are its most well-known feature, they are not all it has to offer visitors. Delaware's lesser-known, undiscovered locations include its 17 state parks, like Brandywine Creek State Park, and the small towns that sit hidden away near these natural sites. Staying at one of these little-known spots is the best way to uncover all that Delaware has to offer and experience the warm welcome offered by the town's folk.
