Summary
Although Lewes boasts an official population of approximately 3,500 residents, it often experiences a significant influx of tourists from across the mid-Atlantic region throughout much of the year.
Situated near some of Delaware’s most renowned beach resorts, Lewes is also surrounded by several state parks in both Delaware and its neighboring states, Maryland and Virginia.
This region of southern Delaware is celebrated for its excellent fishing and surfing opportunities, as well as a wealth of historic attractions that can be traced back more than two centuries, dating to the Revolutionary War era.
The following are 15 attractions to explore in and around Lewes, Delaware.
1. Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park serves as one of the region’s premier outdoor recreation venues, operating from sunrise to sunset from early March through late November each year.
Popular activities within the park include swimming, fishing, surfing, and biking, with numerous campsites available for those wishing to experience the great outdoors overnight.
While the beaches can become busy during peak periods, they maintain a laid-back atmosphere, considerably less commercialized than those found in Rehoboth Beach.
The Cape Henlopen Lighthouse is also a must-visit, and the park hosts various annual festivals.
2. Cannonball House
History enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly option will find the Cannonball House in Lewes to be an excellent resource for an overview of the area’s past.
Situated on Front Street close to the downtown area, the house was originally constructed in the mid-1700s.
Over the years, this historic site has undergone various transformations and now serves as the headquarters for the town’s historical society, featuring numerous intriguing exhibits that explore the Revolutionary War and the bombardment of Lewes by British forces during the War of 1812.
The house is open daily, with a nominal admission fee.
3. Pirates of Lewes
Families traveling with young children will appreciate the unique experience offered by Pirates of Lewes, an adventure that allows participants to dress as pirates and explore the open water.
This attraction provides tours that generally last over an hour, aboard a sizeable vessel manned by enthusiastic and safety-oriented staff. Activities include water battles, treasure hunts, and sing-alongs, creating unforgettable memories for children.
It is essential to note that a minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every four children, and tickets tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons.
4. Lightship Overfalls
Between the early 19th and mid-20th centuries, more than 150 lightships were built along the mid-Atlantic coastline.
Lightship Overfalls is among the few that remain and has undergone extensive renovations to become accessible for public tours.
This ship has been included in the National Register of Historic Places for nearly a decade. During its operational life, it functioned as a movable lighthouse to alert vessels of dangerous reefs and nearby land highlights during nighttime and poor visibility conditions.
The vessel is open seasonally, with guided tours available for visitors.
5. Cape May-Lewes Ferry
Covering a distance of slightly less than 20 miles across the Delaware Bay, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry takes approximately 90 minutes to traverse the bay, offering passengers some of the most picturesque ocean and landscape views available during their travels.
This ferry can accommodate nearly 100 vehicles and transport over 600 passengers simultaneously, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating options, along with refreshments available for purchase.
It is common to spot dolphins and a variety of marine bird species while traveling.
6. Doors of Fame
The vibrant art scenes in both Rehoboth Beach and Lewes showcase numerous galleries that primarily feature works from local and regional artists.
The Doors of Fame is an artistic exhibit located at the Rehoboth Art League headquarters.
True to its name, the exhibit consists of a series of doors engraved with the names of artists from as far back as the 1930s when the league was established.
Art enthusiasts may recognize several prominent names, and the league also hosts a selection of permanent exhibits that include various paintings and sculptures worth observing.
7. Zwaanendael Museum
While its name may pose a pronunciation challenge, the Zwaanendael Museum is an excellent location for an intriguing and informative overview of the area’s history.
Exhibits largely pertain to maritime, military, and cultural themes, with a number of displays highlighting the Dutch influence in the area from the 1600s onward.
The museum is open year-round, though operating hours vary by season, so it is advisable to consult the schedule on their website before planning a visit.
8. Bethany Blues
Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Bethany Beach all offer a diverse range of dining establishments, with Bethany Blues recognized as one of the area’s preferred barbecue restaurants.
The restaurant’s founders traveled extensively to identify the finest barbecue recipes in the country, a pursuit that has evidently paid off in the opinions of many patrons.
Their unique approach to barbecue blends influences from Texas, Tennessee, and the Carolinas, featuring a menu that includes all the expected favorites like ribs, burnt ends, and pulled pork sandwiches.
Additionally, their renowned sides, including mac & cheese and country-style green beans, enhance the dining experience.
9. Junction and Breakwater Trail
The Junction and Breakwater Trail spans nearly six miles connecting Cape Henlopen State Park and Lewes Beach.
This pathway traces the route of a former railway that served as the primary transportation system of the state throughout much of the 17th and 18th centuries and traverses a variety of natural landscapes, including forests, fields, and coastal marshes.
Accessible to walkers, runners, and cyclists, this relatively flat trail is well-suited for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
10. Delaware Seashore State Park
Compared to neighboring Maryland, Delaware’s beaches and resort towns generally offer a more serene and less commercial environment.
Delaware Seashore State Park encompasses nearly 3,000 acres along the coast, conveniently located a short drive from both Lewes and Rehoboth Beach.
While swimming and sunbathing are common activities within the park, it is also a popular destination for surfers and anglers.
Surf fishing can be particularly rewarding in the fall when striped bass are most active, and in designated areas, vehicles are permitted on the beach.
The park regularly hosts a variety of engaging annual events, such as a sandcastle-building contest in July.
11. Big Fish Grill
The Delaware coastline is celebrated for its fresh, seasonal seafood, available at various establishments in the area.
Since its establishment in 1997, Big Fish Grill has earned the title of the best seafood restaurant in the region, a remarkable feat given the local competition.
This accolade is achieved by sourcing the freshest ingredients and offering both traditional and modern culinary preparations.
For guests who prefer alternatives to seafood, the menu also features steaks, burgers, and pizza, accompanied by an extensive selection of local beers, wines, and spirits.
Big Fish Grill is located along the Coastal Highway in Rehoboth Beach.
12. Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
Dogfish Head Brewery is the most recognizable beer brand in Delaware. Although its origins were modest, it now distributes its beers to enthusiasts throughout the region.
Established in Rehoboth Beach since 1995, Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats provides delicious cuisine paired with locally crafted beers and spirits, often featuring live entertainment during the warmer spring and summer evenings.
The brewery offers a diverse range of beers, from light and refreshing to rich and malty, alongside a menu of food perfect for pairing, such as pizzas, burgers, and chicken wings.
13. Funland
For beachgoers, spending numerous consecutive days under the sun and in saltwater can become overwhelming.
Established in 1962, Funland has evolved into a beloved family destination that combines elements of an amusement park, boardwalk, and arcade.
Typically opening for the season during the second week of May and operating until the end of summer, Funland continues to attract many of its original visitors who now bring their families to enjoy the rides and games.
This venue can draw significant crowds; therefore, for those desiring to evade the busiest times, it is advisable to arrive early when the park first opens for the day.
14. Tanger Outlets
Tax-exempt shopping is a notable advantage for visitors to the First State. Many residents from nearby Maryland and Pennsylvania frequently make trips specifically for the opportunity to save on purchases such as vehicles, clothing, and electronics.
For decades, Tanger Outlets have been popular destinations for bargain hunters, and several locations can be found in Rehoboth Beach, just minutes away from Lewes.
It is not uncommon to secure discounts exceeding 50% on designer brands such as Gap, Adidas, and Eddie Bauer.
The outlets also feature numerous dining options, making them particularly attractive when the weather does not permit spending a day at the beach.
15. Lupo Italian Kitchen
Lupo Italian Kitchen, located on Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach, is a popular evening dining option for travelers seeking traditional Italian cuisine.
This restaurant is particularly renowned for its classic dishes, such as chicken and veal parmesan, fried calamari, and spaghetti Bolognese.
Additionally, it offers a variety of seafood options, along with a selection of salads and appetizers.
Although the atmosphere is slightly more upscale compared to many nearby dining establishments, most patrons consider it to provide excellent value, thanks to its inviting environment, generous portion sizes, and reasonable prices.
To avoid the dinner rush, dining early is recommended before the establishment becomes crowded.
