Row homes in New Castle, Delaware. (Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com)

7 Coziest Delaware Towns To Visit In 2025

Delaware is a mid-Atlantic U.S. state that is known for its vibrant landscapes and scenic stopping points. Its small towns are beloved for their gracious commercial locales and natural or historical landmarks that bring smiles to faces. While there is a lot of joy to be found in the "First State," there is also a lot of comfort and hometown charm that makes people want to keep coming back. These towns are some of the coziest ones one may find while traveling around the state.

Georgetown

Sussex County Courthouse on the Circle in Georgetown, Delaware. Image credit Eric B. Walker via Flick
Sussex County Courthouse on the Circle in Georgetown, Delaware. (Image credit Eric B. Walker via Flickr)

Georgetown is a community-oriented town with lots of fascinating finds. Start your tour at the Circle, the ceremonial heart of town with a fountain and centuries of history. The Treasures of the Sea Exhibit includes maritime relics from a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck in the library at the Delaware Technical Community College.

Those who want to feel like a part of the community can enjoy Red Barn Country Store & Farm's easygoing rural ambiance and cute petting zoo that will appeal to kids of all ages, and at Georgetown Family Restaurant, residents and tourists alike can savor homecooked meals and hearty conversations. Georgetown has a range of hotels on offer, from familiar brands like Hilton to independent apartments with terrace views.

New Castle

The New Castle Historic District in New Castle, Delaware. Image credit: George Wirt / Shutterstock.com
The New Castle Historic District in New Castle, Delaware. (Image credit: George Wirt / Shutterstock.com)

New Castle is a colonial destination just south of Wilmington with riverfront beauty and spectacular charm. The Read House & Gardens is a must for revival garden appreciation and a home that once belonged to George Read Jr., the first US Attorney for the District of Delaware and son of a founding father. New Castle Battery Park is best for natural Delaware River scenery and the well-maintained trail is a popular spot for dog-walkers.

The New Castle Farmers Market is more than you might expect, with everything from fresh meats and produce to antiques and home decor. For hungry stomachs, Jessop's Tavern & Colonial Restaurant brings Colonial-era fare to life and has a costumed roleplay service that makes people always come back for more amusement. The Terry House offers18th-century colonial vibes mixed with modern amenities suitable for bed-and-breakfast tourists looking for a place to stay with a bit of character.

Bethany Beach

Bethany Beach, Delaware. Image credit David Kay via Shutterstock.
Bethany Beach, Delaware. (Image credit David Kay via Shutterstock.)

Known as Delaware's "Quiet Resort," Bethany Beach beckons with a whisper. Bethany Beach Boardwalk has sweeping ocean views, smiling food vendors, and an alluring and peaceful coastal charm. For nature lovers, Bethany Beach Nature Center allows for laidback strolls through a range of ecosystems, including uplands, freshwater wetlands, and tidal wetlands.

Bethany Beach Books caters to all the bookworms with its extensive selection and seasonal catalogues that are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. For fans of sweet and salty delights, Fisher's Popcorn of Bethany has enough flavorful varieties to satisfy any craving. The Addy Sea Historic Oceanfront Inn is a great option with a blend of coastal charm and historic beauty steps from the beach.

Millsboro

The aerial view of the waterfront homes with a private dock near Millsboro, Delaware, U.S.A.
The aerial view of the waterfront homes with a private dock near Millsboro, Delaware, U.S.A.

Millsboro is a destination that should not be missed. The Nanticoke Indian Museum features local Native American artifacts and informative workshops. The annual Nanticoke Powwow is a special occasion, when the association welcomes visitors to a festival that honors and celebrates their cutlure with traditional food and dances. Cupola Park offers barbecue pits, shoreline fishing, and a boat launch, as well as the largest bald cypress tree in the state.

Millsboro Lanes brings people together for family-friendly fun and entertainment, while Raices Latin Kitchen offers homemade Latin American cuisine and margarita favorites that are sure to bring people back for more. Those choosing to stay overnight can check in at Avid Hotel, a simplistic yet modern lodging option for those who want quick access to local landmarks.

Lewes

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

Dubbed the "First Town in the First State," Lewes boasts a rich history and considerable recognition. The Zwaanendael Museum is modeled after the former City Hall in Hoom, Netherlands, and was built to honor and celebrate the state's Dutch heritage. Cape Henlopen State Park sits on over 5,000 acres and includes 6 miles of shoreline, walking and bike trails, a World War II museum, and an interactive nature center.

Pirates of Lewes Expeditions is a unique option for swashbuckling adventures on the Lewes Canal, and Nassau Valley Vineyards offers elegant wines in a picturesque country setting, and warm hosts to make vacationers feel at home. Dogfish Inn is one resort idea for beer tasters and adventurous minds who want an offbeat resort, while others may enjoy The Inn at Canal Square for unparalleled waterfront vistas and comfortable amentities.

Milton

outdoor vendors on the street in Milton, Delaware. Editorial credit: Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com.
Outdoor vendors on the street in Milton, Delaware. (Editorial credit: Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com.)

Milton is a small town located on the Broadkill River. Milton Historical Society enhances itineraries with its walkthroughs of rail system history and old transportation routes that helped shape the town. The Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a bird sanctuary that sits on over 10,000 acres of protected habitat, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963. It includes a welcoming visitors center and 7.5 miles of hiking trails.

The Mercantile at Milton houses over 50 vendors under one roof, offering a wide and eclectic mix of treasures and trinkets for all. The Steampunk Tree House is a bizarre yet fascinating attraction for pedestrians who wish to check out retro-futuristic Victorian art. For lodging, the Governor's Bed and Breakfast and the Mansion Farm Inn are both excellent choices for cozy vacation vibes that make you feel right at home.

Smyrna

Park in Smyrna, Delaware.
A park in Smyrna, Delaware.

Destinations like Smyrna will make any itinerary in Delaware unforgettable. The Historic Belmont Hall is a pivotal stop for history lovers, with its 1770s estate antiques and grand tours of luxurious rolling lawns and gardens. Blackbird State Forest has 45 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding north of Smyrna.

The Smyrna Opera House is a hot bed of live performance, from musicals to plays and comedy acts. At The Celtic Pub, guests can enjoy casual Irish pub fare in a laid-back, friendly environment. Those checking in at the Relax Inn Smyrna can enjoy simple amenities and hospitality with a mix of comfort and convenience.

All of these small towns in Delaware are capable of providing unmatched coziness to tourists. No matter how familiar or unfamiliar one is with travel, each of these destinations makes wandering around the "First State" more enjoyable and comfortable during any season. With plenty of newfound inspiration, this list will create memories for all who visit!

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