DELAWARE
— While the First State may be small, Delaware packs in an impressive mix of
history, small-town charm, and coastal escapes
that make it a top summer destination. From quiet beach towns like Fenwick Island to bustling hubs like Rehoboth Beach, these communities offer something unique — whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, rich historical walks, or relaxing waterfront sunsets.
Here are
13 of the most charming Delaware towns
to explore this summer.
1. Lewes – The First Town in the First State
Lewes lives up to its motto. It’s home to the
Zwaanendael Museum
, preserving its Dutch colonial roots, and
Cape Henlopen State Park
, where visitors can climb a towering 80-foot dune or relax on historic beaches tied to the Underground Railroad.
Don’t miss the
Lightship Overfalls
, a floating museum, or a scenic ride on the
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
— often a dolphin-spotting highlight.
2. Rehoboth Beach – The Nation’s Summer Capital
Founded in 1873, Rehoboth’s mile-long boardwalk is still a favorite for beachgoers. The
Funland Haunted Mansion
has spooked generations since 1962. With
free Bandstand concerts
,
Tuesday farmers markets
, and a rich local museum, Rehoboth delivers heart and history alongside the ocean breeze.
3. Milton – Home of the Holly Festival and Dogfish Head Brewery
Once called the
Holly Capital of the World
, Milton still celebrates with an annual winter festival. Stroll along the
Broadkill River
or catch a show at the
Milton Theatre
, active since 1910. Beer lovers make pilgrimages to the
Dogfish Head Brewery
, while architecture fans admire preserved homes like the
Gov. James Ponder House
.
4. New Castle – Where Colonial History Comes Alive
New Castle dates back to 1651 and boasts one of the best-preserved historic districts in the U.S. Visit
Immanuel Church
, standing since 1703, and walk
The Green
, the site of Delaware’s first capital. The
Kalmar Nyckel
replica offers an immersive 17th-century sailing experience when docked nearby.
5. Bethany Beach – A Quiet Resort With Big Personality
Bethany keeps it low-key with a half-mile boardwalk filled with shops and live music.
Chief Little Owl’s statue
greets visitors, while the
Nature Center
offers wetland trails perfect for nature walks. The town’s engineered dunes protect the coastline, and its
Fourth of July parade
draws families year after year.
6. Fenwick Island – For Peace, Fudge, and Lighthouse Views
Known for
peaceful shores and a slow pace
, Fenwick Island is ideal for travelers avoiding the beach-town hustle. The
Fenwick Island Lighthouse
, standing since 1858, is open for tours. Don’t skip the
Seaside Country Store
— famous for its 30+ fudge flavors — or
Thunder Lagoon Waterpark
for family fun.
7. Middletown – Festivals, Film, and Historic Pride
Every August, the
Olde Tyme Peach Festival
fills the streets with food, music, and parades. The town’s charm also includes
St. Andrew’s School
, a filming location for
Dead Poets Society
.
Cochran Square
and the
Middletown Academy
are steeped in history, while
Crooked Hammock Brewery
offers modern-day chill.
8. Dewey Beach – Where the Bay Meets the Atlantic
Framed by the ocean and
Rehoboth Bay
, Dewey Beach is a sunset-lover’s paradise. The town hosts
skimboarding championships
,
beachfront movie nights
, and welcomes
leashed dogs on the sand
— a rare find in many U.S. beach towns.
The
Starboard
, a bar from the 1960s, keeps the nightlife energetic and nostalgic.
9. Laurel – Historic Homes and Cypress Trees
With the
largest historic district in Delaware
, Laurel is a must for history buffs. Explore
Trap Pond State Park
, home to the northernmost bald cypress swamp in the U.S., or ride the
Broad Creek Bike and Brew
for beer and exercise.
Dutch Country Market
offers Amish treats perfect for picnic stops.
10. Odessa – A Step Back into the 18th Century
Once known as Cantwell’s Bridge, Odessa preserves
18th-century life
through the
Historic Odessa Foundation
. Sites like the
Corbit-Sharp House
feel frozen in time. At
Cantwell’s Tavern
, diners enjoy historic ambiance with modern flavors.
Odessa Brewfest
and
holiday home tours
round out the year’s festivities.
11. Georgetown – Where Unity and Heritage Thrive
Located “16 miles from everywhere,”
Georgetown
embraces unity during its
Return Day
, when election results are read aloud and a symbolic hatchet is buried. Explore the
Marvel Carriage Museum
or visit during
Festival Hispano
, which showcases Delaware’s growing Latino community through food, music, and dance.
12. Harrington – Where Tradition Meets Fun
The Delaware State Fair
transforms Harrington into a summer hotspot, drawing over 300,000 visitors for concerts, carnival rides, and fried delicacies. Afterward,
Harrington Raceway & Casino
keeps the excitement alive. Don’t miss the
Greater Harrington Historical Society’s
train tower and seasonal ice skating at
Centre Ice Rink
.
13. Wyoming – The Small-Town Peach Capital
While not included in the original list,
Wyoming, Delaware
deserves an honorable mention. Its
Wyoming Peach Festival
in August rivals that of Middletown, with a charming small-town feel that continues to attract summer visitors.
Plan Your Summer Getaway
From
quaint boardwalks
to
historic churches
,
festival-packed streets
to
quiet forest walks
, Delaware’s towns offer a taste of something timeless. Whether you’re traveling with family, on a romantic getaway, or road-tripping through the Mid-Atlantic, these towns make perfect summer stops.
What’s your favorite small-town summer spot? Let us know in the comments or share your Delaware travel photos with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
