The aerial view of the beach town of Lewes, Delaware. Image credit Khairil Azhar Junos via Shutterstock

Why This Delaware Town Deserves More Attention

Originating as one of the earliest European settlements in Delaware, Lewes has been a trailblazer from the beginning. Having endured pivotal moments like the War of 1812 and the Second World War, this small town of just over 3,000 residents certainly has a story to tell. Today, it is the perfect place to spend the weekend, featuring beautiful beaches at Cape Henlopen State Park, well-preserved 17th-century homes like the Ryves Holt House, and unique annual events such as the Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival. Travelers looking to experience some of Delaware’s finest heritage will fall in love with Lewes.

Breathtaking Towns To Visit In DelawareFrom hidden riverfront hamlets to scenic beach enclaves, uncover picturesque towns in Delaware that promise to captivate first-timers with their cultural depth and natural beauty.

Cape Henlopen State Park

Situated along the northwestern shores of Lewes, visitors will find Cape Henlopen State Park. Spanning over 5,000 acres, this park features maritime forests, critical nesting habitats for birds, and pristine beaches. Travelers can easily explore the different ecosystems in the park via 4.6 miles of hiking and equestrian trails that wind throughout the park. Two swimming beaches are staffed with lifeguards between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, with the northern swimming area offering amenities like food concessions, showers, and changing rooms. There is also an 18-hole disc golf course on the park premises, along with basketball courts for those who like sports.

Travelers interested in the area’s history should make sure to explore the park’s Fort Miles Historical Area. During World War II, this fort was an important part of the country’s coastal defense. Today, travelers can tour an artillery park, the Battery 519 Museum, a fire control tower, six barracks, and an orientation building. After learning about the history of Fort Miles, visitors can stop by the Seaside Nature Center, also in Cape Henlopen. This center features several 1,000-gallon exhibits with native species, a 500-gallon interactive touch tank, a live osprey camera feed, and a borrow-a-bike program.

Historic Landmarks

The Ryves Holt House is the oldest surviving house in the U.S. state of Delaware. It was built in 1665. Harrison Keely, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Wikipedia.

Founded in 1631 by Dutch colonists, some buildings in Lewes date back over three centuries. The Ryves Holt House, for example, dates back to 1686, making it the oldest building in the state. Today, travelers can visit this home, which now serves as a museum and mercantile that supports the mission of Historic Lewes. The Cannonball House Maritime Museum is another fascinating landmark in town. This mid-18th-century home is renowned for being the only remaining structure that was damaged during the War of 1812. In addition to once being a home, this building has served as a sewing shop, printing shop, bank, office building, laundromat, and taxi stand.

The Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, Delaware. Image credit: Harrison Keely via Wikimedia Commons.

After visiting these historic homes, travelers can continue their historic tour at the Historic Lewes Town Campus, where they will find nine historic buildings. These structures, some of which have been relocated throughout the years, include several 18th-century homes, an 1800s-style country store, a coffee house set in a 1790s home, and more.

The Lewes historical marker. Editorial credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com.

Upcoming Festivals

The exterior of an antique store in the shopping district of Lewes. Editorial credit: Nicole Glass Photography / Shutterstock.com

Travelers planning to visit Lewes in May or June should make sure to keep a couple of key festivals on their radar. The first is Shanty Fest, taking place on Saturday, May 17th. This festival, hosted by Historic Lewes, will be the first of its kind, celebrating the town’s maritime traditions and connection to the sea with art, music, and history. Art showcases will be unique, including elements like scrimshaw and tattoos, while the live music will feature a dynamic lineup, with The Dreadnoughts headlining.

On Saturday, June 7th, Lewes will be hosting the 18th annual Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival. During this event, more than 70 local artists will gather, sharing their sea glass and coastal-themed art with the public. Artwork varieties will include jewelry, home decor, sculptures, ceramics, paintings, photography, and more. Attendees can also bring their own seaglass to have experts from the Delmarva Antique Bottle Club identify it! There will be periodic glassblowing demonstrations throughout the festival schedule as well.

Culinary & Brewing Scene

Downtown Lewes, Delaware. Image credit Harrison Keely via Wikimedia Commons.

For a town of its size, Lewes has an impressive number of restaurants and breweries. Travelers craving some fresh seafood can enjoy a meal at Lewes Oyster House, an 18th and 19th-style oyster bar that serves award-winning tavern fare. Set in a Victorian home, Heirloom is another highly-regarded restaurant, specializing in seasonal dishes. Some dishes on the menu this season include potato & leek soup, pan-seared New England scallops, and five-hour braised lamb leg. After dinner, stop by one of Lewes’ breweries, such as Crooked Hammock Brewery, which has been operating in Lewes since 2015 and serves a diverse lineup of craft beers.

View of downtown Lewes Deleware from the canal.

Although Lewes may not be the most well-known Atlantic coast town, its centuries of history, cultural festivals, and well-kept beaches all make it truly stand out. Additionally, after spending a day exploring its attractions, it is easy to find an award-winning restaurant or a highly rated brewery, a privilege that not all small towns have. After visiting Lewes, travelers may find that the quietest towns often leave the deepest impressions!

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