Delaware's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape
Delaware’s quaint nature makes it an ideal place to live. Its unique blend of history and entertainment adds to the whole picture. From Millsboro to Bowers Beach, you are in for an unforgettable adventure.
With their rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful scenery, these towns are sure to captivate visitors. Find some of the best small towns to visit if you need a weekend escape.
Millsboro
Home to just under 7,500 people, Millsboro is a captivating town situated in Sussex County. Before changing its name to Millsboro, it was originally known as Rock Hole Mills and was popular for being a major commercial center.
For those planning a weekend getaway, Millsboro offers plenty of attractions to complement its breathtaking views. You may start with a picnic at Cupola Park or get a massage at New Relaxation.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum houses exhibits that showcase the Native American culture and their contributions to the town's heritage. The town's charm is enhanced by its antique shops, and a visit to the Black Cat Antiques is a pleasure for antique lovers. Enjoy the peace and calm brought by good hospitality by lodging at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay, which is said to be one of the top five places to stay in Millsboro.
Lewes
Friendly, charming, and quiet, Lewes is a serene town at the mouth of Delaware Bay. It is a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy a quiet stroll, which is why it is known as a walking town.
Founded in 1631 by Dutch Colonists, Lewes is one of the oldest towns in the United States. The town played a significant role in the maritime industry and was once a major whaling hub. A visit to Fort Miles Historic Area offers visitors first-hand access to preserves of the town's past.
The Cannonball Maritime House is also home to historic pieces of art and memorabilia. This town is known for beautiful evenings and quiet strolls, so be sure to visit Cape Henlopen State Park. It has various biking and hiking trails, perfect for leisurely strolls. Dogfish Inn and Beacon Inn are top spots in town to settle in.
New Castle
New Castle was founded in 1651. It is situated on the Delaware River, six miles from Wilmington. The town was once the capital of Delaware.
There are enough museums for everyone to visit. Some of these include The Read House and Gardens Museum, the Historic New Castle Court House Museum, and the New Castle Historical Society located in the Old Library Museum. Visitors can learn a lot about the town's history by taking trips to any of these museums.
New Castle is not only about history; it offers opportunities for outdoor entertainment with attractions such as Mo'zArt Gallery, where you can go to art exhibitions. For state-of-the-art accommodation and eats, the Courtyard New Castle Hotel and Nora Lees is your go-to place. You may also love to go shopping at New Castle Farmers Market.
Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach is a town situated on the Atlantic Coast known for its wide beaches. Originally known as "Bethany Beach Resort," Bethany Beach is a major destination for the wealthy, especially those who like beach house gatherings.
Major attractions in Bethany Beach include the Bethany Beach Boardwalk, where you can find elegant dining and shopping options and enjoy the coastal breeze. Shore Fun Family Fun Center is a great choice for family and friends get-togethers. Bethany Beach Nature Center and Bethany Beach Books are a must-visit if you love nature and books.
The Bethany Beach Ocean Suites is a cozy hotel offering comfortable rooms, which visitors always enjoy when they visit.
Odessa
Odessa is a mix of charm and modern life. Located on the Appoquinimink River and founded in the 18th century, Odessa is one of the oldest towns in Delaware. It is also known to have played a key role in the colonial era as it is home to a National Historic Landmark and two National Parks Service Network to Freedom sites.
Odessa History Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Historic Odessa Foundation are great places to start your weekend tour. The Appoquinimink River Walk allows you to see what life in town is like while enjoying the view. When you visit the historic Everett Theater, 9 minutes away, you can treat your family to incredible performances by impressive actors.
For some of the best dishes in town, you can always turn to Cantwell’s Tavern, and you'll be astonished every time. Cantwell House Bed and Breakfast is also a great accommodation option.
Smyrna
Smyrna was once a major shipping hub. Its ports between Wilmington and Lewes were of great significance for shipping grain and lumber to the North. Today, Smyrna is a delightful destination that offers something for everyone.
Smyrna’s history is preserved in the Smyrna Museum, which showcases the town's history and heritage. The Painted Stave Distilling is another popular attraction where visitors can treat themselves to tastings of handcrafted spirits. The Blackbird State Forest is a must-visit for nature lovers as they can venture into the natural ecosystem and ride its scenic trails.
Visitors can stroll along Duck Creek Road to enjoy the town's scenery and tranquility. The Smyrna Rest Area offers comfortable and convenient accommodation, which will enhance the holiday experience.
Milton
Milton is a small town on the Broadkill River with a history that beckons thousands of visitors from Delaware and beyond. It is a blend of history, charm, and beauty.
Founded in 1672, Milton’s port was a major shipping hub in the 19th century, shipping goods such as grain, lumber, and produce. Milton is also famous for its cultural and political excellence, having produced four governors of Delaware and one governor of Wyoming.
With a weekend trip to Milton, you can explore the town's historic district, which features many preserved buildings from the 1800s and 1900s. The Milton Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the town's past as you will find exhibits on its maritime history and notable residents. The Milton Memorial Park is not only a historic park but also a great outdoor spot.
The town's historic inns, such as The Charleston Inn of Milton and The Governor's Bed and Breakfast, are reputable accommodation options where you can enjoy comfort and hospitality.
Delaware City
Delaware City was once known as an important port and shipbuilding center. It is also the last state to gain a national monument, as its first national monument was given to it by former president of the United States of America, Barack Obama, and his vice president, Joe Biden, in 2013.
History lovers will enjoy visiting the Fort Delaware Society, which offers insights into the town's fascinating past. The Fort Delaware State Park is a must-visit as its well-preserved fort and scenic views of the Delaware River add color to the view, leaving tourists stunned at its beauty. It also offers opportunities for outdoor fun, such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.
For comfortable accommodations, the Central Hotel offers cozy rooms and a warm welcome.
Bowers Beach
Beauty and crystal-clear skies are what you get at Bowers Beach. It is a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy a relaxing getaway and a quiet stroll along the beach. Bowers Beach was formerly a fishing village known as Whitwell’s Delight.
20 minutes from the town is Johnson Victrola Museum, situated in Dover town, where you can also visit parks like Silver Lake Park and First State Heritage Park.
Bowers Beach is a very beautiful place to be, and you can enjoy the mesmerizing sunsets and quiet evenings when you take a trip to Bowers Beach Beachfront. For accommodation, the Hampton Inn Milford, 18 minutes away, is a top spot in town to settle in before you dive into your holiday plans.
Delaware is filled with small towns that are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking for history, culture, or outdoor adventure, these towns offer a unique and relaxing weekend escape. From Millsboro's antique shops to Bethany Beach's boardwalk, each town has its own charm. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the charm of Delaware's small towns. An unforgettable adventure awaits!
