Have you ever been to Lewes, Delaware? The First Town in the First State is one of our first thoughts when we’re planning a Delaware day trip. This underrated beach town has it all – fine dining and casual eateries, boutiques, bookshops, nature walks, and historic parks. Come along as we explore all there is to see, do, and enjoy!

If you'd like to find yourself watching the sunrise from one of the most beautiful places in the country...
Flickr / Alyson Hurt
...wake up early and head to Lewes.
Lewes is one of the most charming towns on the East Coast.
Flickr / Duluoz Cats
It's located on the tip of Cape Henlopen, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The location on the cape means that there are beautiful lighthouses all around...
Flickr / Richard Ricciardi
... and even a historic Lightship that you can visit!
Flickr / Bob Mical
Take a tour of the Lightship Overfalls to learn about maritime safety the old-fashioned way.
If you love the beach, you'll want to spend time in Cape Henlopen State Park.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
It's much less crowded than Rehoboth Beach, even in the middle of summer.
Plus, Cape Henlopen State Park is home to Fort Miles Historic Area.
Flickr / Mike Kalasnik
Here you can explore an abandoned World War II era fort.
Downtown Lewes is just as exciting as the beach.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Enjoy shopping and dining in an area that's walkable and where you'll only have trouble parking during peak season days and holidays.
Despite being on the coast, the town is packed with green space.
Facebook / Lewes Historical Society
Spend some time walking through the parks and enjoying the beautiful gardens that are scattered about.
If you love history, visit the Cannonball House and the Lewes History Museum!
Facebook / Lewes Historical Society
At both places you'll learn so much about the history of this, one of the most unique and fascinating Delaware towns.
Come spend some time on the coast in Lewes...
Flickr / Geoff Livingston
...and you'll fall in love with Delaware all over again.

Have you ever been to this beautiful beach town? If so, what was your favorite part? Did you find any new favorite shops or restaurants in town? Would you agree that overall, Lewes is simply delightful? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below!

For another small-town Delaware adventure consider charming Hockessin, located in the Brandywine Valley.

If you’re still in the mood for more First State adventures, take a look at this video:

 

 

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More to Explore

More to love about Delaware

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | April 30, 2023

Where can we find other small towns in Delaware?

  • Middletown is popular for its truly small town and its shops and galleries.
  • Georgetown is a historic Delaware small town with an array of attractions that delight and inspire.
  • Rehoboth Beach is Delaware's resort town and a favorite for its amazing accommodations, restaurants, and shops.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other charming small towns in Delaware.

Where can we find wineries in Delaware?

  • Harvest Ridge Winery in Marydel was Delaware’s first winery and is a popular place year-round, particularly in the Spring and Fall for their food truck festivals.
  • Pizzadili Vineyard and Winery in Felton is located in a stunning setting encompassing ponds, barns, and farm animals.
  • Nassau Valley Vineyards-Winery in Lewes offers an opportunity for visitors to learn about the history and process of winemaking as well as taste and purchase them.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other beautiful wineries in Delaware.

Where can we enjoy annual festivals in Delaware?

  • The Fifer Orchards Peach Ice Cream Day Festival in Camden Wyoming (that is the name of the Delaware town) celebrates all things “peachy.”
  • The Arden Fair and Antiques Market is a combo old-fashioned town fair with entertainment, artists, performers, and food and antique vendors.
  • The Nanticoke Indian Pow-Wow celebrates the traditions, music, and history of this Native American Tribe in Delaware and further afield.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other exciting annual festivals in Delaware.

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Lewes, DE 19958, USA