Aerial view of Dover, Delaware in autumn at dusk.

These 7 Small Towns in Delaware Come Alive in Fall

Despite being one of the USA's smallest states, Delaware offers an irreplaceable experience of the beauty and warmth that unfolds with the arrival of fall. In autumn, visitors are invited to witness the magic of Delaware as vibrant colors paint the landscape at places such as Redden State Forest and White Clay Creek State Park. Attend Seaford's annual Seaford Community Fall Festival or spend a day fishing amidst the autumn foliage at Milford's Bicentennial Park. Theater lovers amongst the group? Take part in a live performance at the Everett Theatre! These small towns in Delaware promise a lovely fall getaway. 

Newark

A scenic view of a river flowing in the forest in White Clay Creek State Park, Newark, Delaware
A scenic view of a river flowing in the forest in White Clay Creek State Park, Newark, Delaware.

Home to the esteemed University of Delaware, the quaint town of Newark thrives in autumn. For a lively event, visit the George Wilson Center and enjoy Newark’s Annual Halloween Costume Party. This event features special Halloween crafts and activities, spooky storytelling, and a costume contest. If exploring nature is more your speed, take a stroll along the riverbank and enjoy the autumn colors on the newly paved walking path at Newark Reservoir. Outdoor enthusiasts can bike, run, or walk the Pomeroy Trail that leads to the White Clay Creek State Park where visitors can relax or picnic while admiring the changing seasons. History enthusiasts may also want to venture to the Newark History Museum and admire the galleries that tell the story of Newark's past.

Middletown

Blue pick-up truck on the street in front of the Everett Theatre
Blue pick-up truck on the street in front of the Everett Theatre in Middletown, DE. Image credit Alexanderphoto7 via Shutterstock.

Middletown is another small town of approximately 24,000 residents. Visitors here can explore the many trails, have a picnic, or fish in the pond at Charles E. Price Memorial Park. During the fall, experience Frightland, an attraction featuring a haunted house, carnival rides, and all things spooky, from a haunted barn to a haunted hayride. Sports enthusiasts can indulge in various activities at Silver Lake Park, such as baseball and soccer, amidst the beautiful changing fall colors. Attend a live theatre play, movie, or a special event like those hosted at the Everett Theatre. Take a short drive to Augustine State Wildlife Management Area to learn about and witness the diverse wildlife of the region against a gorgeous fall backdrop.

Dover

Aerial view of Dover, Delaware during autumn at dusk.
Aerial view of Dover, Delaware during autumn at dusk.

Dover is the capital city of Delaware and boasts various excursions for visitors looking to embrace the autumn air. Explore Delaware's First State Heritage Park, a unique urban "park without boundaries" that connects nearly two dozen historic and cultural sites, including the John Bell House, and natural areas like the St. Jones River. Improve your short game and enjoy a fall round at the Dover Par 3 & Driving Range, catering to all skill levels. Experience the beauty of fall at the St. Jones Reserve and Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve by hiking the trails, observing conservation demonstrations, and appreciating a native plant nursery amidst the changing autumn landscape.

Smyrna

Canada geese in migration at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware, USA
Canada geese in migration at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware.

Nature enthusiasts will find Smyrna, Delaware, an area that does not disappoint. Spend the day boating and enjoying the vibrant fall hues along the shoreline of Lake Como. Explore Bombay Hook, a national wildlife refuge on the Delaware Bay coast, covering over 16,000 acres of fields and forests. This refuge provides activities such as car tours, bird watching, and fishing against a lively fall background. Blackbird Forest offers hiking and camping opportunities. For history buffs, take a stroll through the town and appreciate historical buildings like the Old Town Hall, the construction of which began in 1869.

Milford

Overlooking small town Milford from scenic overlook on a sunny fall day
Overlooking small town Milford from a scenic overlook on a sunny fall day.

Take a fall trip to small town Milford, just a short hour's drive from Washington, D.C.! Walk along the Mispillion Riverwalk Park, a riverfront trail that meanders beside the Mispillion River that invites residents and visitors to engage in leisurely walks, jogging, or simply relishing the beauty of the fall surroundings. Experience the charm of Bicentennial Park, an ideal spot for picnicking, fishing, and relaxation amidst the changing leaves. Head to the glistening Delaware River and check out Delaware River Adventures for an exhilarating day of canoeing or kayaking, providing a unique and interactive perspective of the autumn foliage from the water.

Seaford

Panorama of Seaford, Delaware beach.
Panorama of Seaford, Delaware beach.

Home to many beaches, take a stroll along one of the shorelines. Play a round at Hooper's Landing Golf Course, featuring a driving range and putting green. This 18-hole public course sprawls over 203 acres. Fall time brings the annual Seaford Community Fall Festival at the Governor Ross Mansion grounds. With diverse rides and a pumpkin carving contest, the festival offers enjoyment for everyone. Explore the Seaford Museum, where thousands of local artifacts await, providing insights into the timelines of the United States, Delaware, and area history. Relax in Seaford’s Gateway Park and enjoy the changing of the seasons whilst picnicking.

Georgetown

Entrance to Georgetown Speedway in Georgetown, DE
Entrance to Georgetown Speedway in Georgetown, DE. Image credit Matthew Carreiro via Shutterstock.

Georgetown is one of the most charming towns in Delaware. Have a fall adventure by taking a drive to Redden State Forest for a day of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and in-season hunting in a peaceful fall setting. Explore the historical lodge within the park, once utilized as a hunting retreat for railroad administrators. Marvel at the collection of antique carriages and restored buildings at the Marvel Carriage Museum. Attend an exciting race at Georgetown Speedway, renowned for its role in the development of stock car racing. Or, take things a bit slower and enjoy the crisp fall air while picnicking at North Bedford Street Park.

Explore Delaware's enchanting fall palette at green spaces such as Seaford's Gateway Park. Outdoor enthusiasts can relish the stunning fall foliage and changing leaf hues at Smyrna's Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge or Middletown's Silver Lake Park. History buffs can indulge in the rich displays at the Newark History Museum or appreciate the collection of antique carriages and restored buildings at the Marvel Carriage Museum. Delaware embraces the magic of the fall season, crafting an engaging, relaxing, and unforgettable experience for everyone.

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