Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Bridgeville, Delaware

Bridgeville, a quaint town in Sussex County, Delaware, holds the distinction of being the oldest community in the county’s western region. Historical records trace back to the mid-1800s, providing ample opportunity for exploration and learning during your visit.

With a population exceeding 2,000 residents, guests can expect a serene and leisurely retreat. Nevertheless, the tranquil environment does not imply complete isolation; situated within the Salisbury, Maryland-Delaware Metropolitan Area, Bridgeville is conveniently located near larger municipalities such as Rehoboth Beach, Dover, and Salisbury.

Bridgeville may be modest in size, yet it is renowned for its agricultural heritage, charming tree-lined avenues, outdoor activities, and exceptional golfing opportunities. Noteworthy shopping venues include the Bridgeville Mall and Downtown Alley.

A highlight of the local calendar is the Apple-Scrapple Festival, held every October.

Below are 15 remarkable activities to partake in while visiting Bridgeville, Delaware.

1. Search for treasures at Antique Alley of Bridgeville, LLC

If you have a penchant for antiques, Antique Alley of Bridgeville, LLC, offers 20,000 square feet of climate-controlled shopping featuring over 65 vendors and 125 booths, presenting unique finds at competitive prices.

2. Enjoy a home-cooked meal at Snappy’s Bar & Grille

Begin your exploration of Bridgeville with a satisfying, home-prepared meal at Snappy’s Bar & Grille, a beloved local establishment known for its hearty offerings such as steak, crab cakes, and an assortment of burgers.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is renowned for having the finest breakfast sandwich in the state.

3. Take a tour of the Governor Ross Mansion

Located in the nearby town of Seaford, the historic Governor Ross Mansion offers fascinating insights into the region’s historical background through guided tours provided by The Seaford Historical Society.

This expansive brick mansion, built in the mid-1800s, served as the residence of William Henry Harrison Ross and his family. In addition to the mansion, the 20-acre grounds include former slave quarters, a granary, stables, and a smokehouse.

4. Play a round of golf at Heritage Shores Club

Recognized among the premier golf courses in the state, Heritage Shores Club provides an exceptional golfing experience.

The 7,005-yard course, expertly designed by architect Arthur Hills, features a captivating and challenging layout suitable for golfers of all skill levels. Each tee offers a distinct experience, ensuring that every round presents fresh challenges. Guests also have access to a driving range and short course, along with a variety of dining options, lounges, and traditional country club amenities.

5. Bridgeville Historical Society Museum

A visit to the Bridgeville Historical Society Museum provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the town’s rich history. The museum’s objective is to collect and safeguard local historical artifacts for future generations.

The museum offers a wealth of local history, showcasing various aspects of the area’s past, including its railroads, agriculture, and commerce. Numerous exhibits feature artifacts such as vintage clothing and musical instruments.

6. Enjoy craft beer and quality food at Jeff’s Tap Room

Jeff’s Tap Room is a long-established family-owned establishment in Bridgeville that blends a bar and grill with a lively nightlife scene.

The menu features an array of delectable selections, including shrimp jammers, steamed clams, bacon-wrapped scallops, seafood platters, and a variety of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, and burgers. Additionally, there are 21 craft beers available on tap.

7. Stop by T. S. Smith & Sons for a tasty treat

T. S. Smith & Sons serves as an ideal mid-exploration stop, featuring an 800-acre family-owned farm that boasts the oldest apple, peach, and nectarine crops in Delaware.

The farm also produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, including asparagus, sweet corn, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, squash, and cantaloupe. Visitors can indulge in fresh apple cider donuts, assorted jams, and jellies, or purchase fresh produce for their journey.

8. Visit the Federalsburg Historical Society and Museum

Located in a historically significant and well-preserved building in Federalsburg, Maryland, the Federalsburg Historical Society and Museum aims to document and conserve the town’s heritage.

The community has generously contributed numerous artifacts that narrate the town’s evolution from its inception to the present, focusing on its industry, events, and the proud individuals who have contributed to its story. Visitors can also explore the on-site Historically Yours Boutique.

9. Spend a day in the great outdoors at Martinak State Park

A short distance from Bridgeville lies Martinak State Park in Denton, Maryland, a picturesque natural area situated along the Choptank River and Watts Creek.

Focused on conservation, the park includes a boat launch for convenient access to the waterways. Anglers can expect to catch various fish species, including catfish, perch, and bass.

Modern camping facilities are available for those looking to enjoy an overnight stay, along with picnic areas equipped with tables and playgrounds. Nature enthusiasts can explore a variety of hiking trails and a nature center within the park, which traverses diverse hardwood and pine forest ecosystems.

10. Spend a day in Slaughter Beach

Slaughter Beach boasts an intriguing historical background, in addition to its long, pristine shoreline ideal for beachcombing. Birdwatching is a popular pastime here, as visitors seek to observe diverse avian species while the area serves as a crucial habitat for horseshoe crabs.

11. Visit the Seaford Museum

The Seaford Museum, located in downtown Seaford, is recognized as one of Delaware’s finest museums. The elegant structure, enhanced by modern technological features, is an attraction in itself.

Volunteers have dedicated their efforts to transforming the historic post office into an engaging museum. Inside, visitors can gain insight into the town’s vibrant history.

Thousands of artifacts illustrate the various dimensions of the town’s and Delaware’s narratives, with displays highlighting the Nanticoke Indians, local industries, agriculture, and railroad history. Furthermore, a convenient gift shop is available for visitors.

12. Get a taste of Italian culture at Tony’s Pizza & Pasta

Visitors to Bridgeville need not venture outside the town or county to savor authentic Italian culture and cuisine; Tony’s Pizza & Pasta presents a superb selection of Italian dishes prepared by first-generation Italians, proudly maintaining a welcoming ambiance for over two decades.

Open for both lunch and dinner, their extensive menu offers a variety of options, including Chicken Cacciatore, Penne Arrabbiata, Pesto, and tortellini.

Additionally, an assortment of appetizers, subs, soups, and pizzas is available, with all dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients. Outdoor seating enhances the dining experience.

13. Wander the gardens and preserve at Adkins Arboretum

Located in nearby Ridgely, Maryland, Adkins Arboretum primarily emphasizes biodiversity conservation and public education. Visitors exploring the 400-acre expanse will discover over 600 plant species across diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows.

Guided walking tours are available, as well as a gift shop on-site. Hikers and nature aficionados can enjoy five miles of trails that traverse various habitat types, such as hardwood and pine forests, where wildlife sighting opportunities abound.

14. Explore the Redden State Forest

Approximately an hour away in Georgetown lies Redden State Forest, a nature lover’s sanctuary encompassing over 12,400 acres of natural terrain awaiting exploration.

With 44 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, visitors will encounter an array of avian species and pass through lush forest landscapes.

Additionally, the park features primitive camping sites and designated areas for catch-and-release fishing.

15. Sample locally-made craft beer at Mispillion River Brewing

Located in Milford, Mispillion River Brewing provides a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to relax and enjoy quality local beers.

The brewery’s distinctive branding captures attention, but it is their diverse selection of beers—such as Ladybug Rose Lager, Sausage Party Marzen, and Space Otter Pale Ale—that truly delights the palate.

The beer is brewed on-site, and guests can observe the brewing process through large windows in the tasting room or sign up for a tour to gain an even more personal experience.