Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Georgetown, Delaware

When considering distinctive towns that exhibit a captivating blend of rich history and cultural variety, few rival Georgetown, Delaware. This quaint town, home to approximately 6,500 residents, is positioned attractively within Sussex County, just a brief drive from key attractions and the beachfront resorts along the Atlantic coast.

Despite its inclusion in the Salisbury Metropolitan Area, Georgetown maintains a relaxed, suburban ambiance, rendering it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility away from bustling crowds while remaining in proximity to significant urban centers. Surrounding the town is picturesque scenery along with abundant opportunities for outdoor activities.

A remarkable aspect of Georgetown is its design, which centers around a circular plaza that serves as the town’s heart, accommodating numerous shops, restaurants, and essential services.

Every two years, the highly-anticipated Return Day takes place, a Colonial festival that draws many visitors. Other annual events include Wings and Wheels in October, Festival Hispano in September, and Georgetown Art Crawl & Farmer and the Foodie, also occurring in September.

Below are 15 exceptional activities to engage in while visiting Georgetown, Delaware.

1. Treasures of the Sea Exhibit

During the 17th century, the nearby Atlantic waters were notably vibrant. Adventurers from Spain brought Old-World treasures, sailing in pursuit of New Worlds and intriguing narratives to relay. Occasionally, vessels were lost at sea.

Such was the fate of Nuestra Senora de Atocha, which sank due to a powerful storm in 1622. Thereafter, treasure hunters flocked to those waters in search of legendary riches. Ultimately, some of this treasure was indeed discovered by celebrated treasure hunter Mel Fisher.

At the Treasures of the Sea Exhibit in Georgetown, visitors have the opportunity to view and interact with artifacts from this multi-million dollar Spanish treasure trove. A short video regarding the vessel’s historical narrative and tragic fate is also presented.

2. JD Shuckers Georgetown

For an enjoyable and reasonably priced dining experience featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, JD Shuckers Georgetown is a favored spot among visitors in the region.

Whether for lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings, patrons can select from a diverse menu that offers steak, seafood, chicken, various crab specialties, burgers, and sandwiches.

3. Jungle Jims Adventure World

Families seeking a fun-filled day can visit Jungle Jims Adventure World located in nearby Rehoboth Beach.

This water park, the largest in the state, features an array of thrilling water attractions, including giant waterslides, multiple pools, waterfalls, a spray ground, bumper boats, and a lazy river. Additionally, various land-based activities such as a rope course, Go-Karts, and The River Safari café offer diverse food choices including burgers, fries, pizza, and salads.

4. Cape Henlopen State Park

At Cape Henlopen State Park in Lewes, families can find ample adventure to occupy an entire day. Several beaches offer inviting opportunities for swimming during the summer, with showers and changing facilities available on-site.

Post-swimming, visitors may enjoy a friendly competition on the disc golf course or practice their skills at the basketball court. A scenic three-mile hiking trail encircles the park, presenting breathtaking views of the landscape. The historical World War II Observation Tower and old military bunker provide intriguing insights into local history.

The park also hosts a variety of seasonal events, including the Kite Festival and a Halloween Fantasy Trail.

5. Funland

Families can also delight in Funland, a nostalgic amusement park located on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk. Adults appreciate the classic rides reminiscent of their youth, while children enjoy a broad array of midway games, 20 rides tailored for various age groups, an electronic shooting gallery, arcade games, and a haunted house.

6. DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum

The DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island provides a captivating and educational experience for visitors of all ages, showcasing authentic shipwreck artifacts.

With over 10,000 artifacts sourced from the ocean floor, this museum presents one of the area’s largest collections via interactive exhibits. Items originate from across the globe, with exhibits rotating frequently, ensuring something new for each visit.

7. Marvel Carriage Museum

Guests to the Marvel Carriage Museum can appreciate an exceptional array of carriages and explore various elements of Georgetown’s history. This Antique Carriage Museum features two spacious barns housing Nutter Marvel’s impressive collection, which includes the Queen’s carriage, the Disney Carriage, and a peddler’s wagon.

Additionally, several historic buildings are present on-site, such as the Ellis School, constructed in 1833. Visitors may also discover numerous exhibits containing photographs, antique furnishings, and vintage telecommunication devices.

8. Holts Landing State Park

Located along the coast in nearby Dagsboro, Holts Landing State Park encompasses 203 acres of natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities available include fishing, boating, horseback riding, and hiking.

Venturing through the park leads visitors along stunning beaches, lush forests, and open fields, providing opportunities to encounter local wildlife, including deer, foxes, raccoons, and diverse bird species.

9. Hike the Junction & Breakwater Trail

Those who appreciate hiking but prefer a more leisurely route can enjoy the Junction & Breakwater Trail in Rehoboth Beach, which spans six miles and can be accessed at Wolfe Glade and Holland Glade. This former rail-trail meanders through untouched natural regions featuring beautiful landscapes adjacent to the southwestern side of Cape Henlopen State Park.

10. Biggs Museum of American Art

The Biggs Museum of American Art, located in Dover, aims to educate visitors about art while inspiring admiration for its aesthetic qualities.

Art enthusiasts, as well as those simply curious to learn more about American art, can spend an afternoon appreciating various displays of artwork from Delaware and across the nation. The collection features works dating back to the 18th century, encompassing a diverse array of styles and genres from numerous artists.

11. Play a Round of Golf at Mulligan’s Pointe Golf Course

Mulligan’s Pointe presents more than just an 18-hole championship golf course; it is a delightful venue where one can engage in their favorite pastime while enjoying camaraderie with friends. This accessible course in Georgetown is open to the public year-round.

After an invigorating day of golfing, visitors can savor excellent food and drinks at the on-site bar and grill. Weekends often feature live music, trivia, karaoke, and various bar games for additional entertainment.

12. Abbotts Mill Nature Center

For individuals eager to engage in learning opportunities and diverse activities within a tranquil, natural environment, Abbotts Mill Nature Center in Milford stands out as a popular location. This picturesque coastal setting offers a variety of educational programs for visitors of all ages, interactive amphibian and reptile exhibits, and displays featuring taxidermied animals.

The site also includes a historic grist and roller mill, with guided tours available. For those seeking physical activities, multiple hiking trails catering to all skill levels can be found in the park. A designated beach area permits supervised swimming, sunbathing, and surf fishing.

13. 3 Palms Zoo

3 Palms Zoo serves as a combination of zoo, animal rescue facility, and educational center located in Townsend. It stands as the only zoo in the state that grants visitors the opportunity to observe a variety of animal species in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats, allowing for learning opportunities about their lifestyles and backgrounds.

Among the wildlife, guests can see turtles, groundhogs, foxes, and the state’s exclusive alligator, named Tick Tock. The zoo also houses a variety of birds, including turkey vultures, geese, owls, and pheasants. Moreover, visitors can interact with domestic animals such as emus, llamas, sheep, pigs, and donkeys through feeding and petting experiences.

14. Midway Speedway Park

Excitement for all age groups awaits at Midway Speedway in Rehoboth Beach. The primary attraction is the ability to drive go-karts down five distinct tracks, featuring a super-8 track and high-banked oval.

After enjoying the thrill of racing, guests can partake in mini-golf at the 18-hole course, engage in bumper boat activities, or test their skills on a climbing wall. Additionally, the White Water Mountain Water Park offers swimming options and several exhilarating slides.

15. Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve

The Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve in Milton offers visitors the chance to discover 143 acres of unspoiled natural landscapes along the Broadkill River. As individuals traverse the hiking trails within the preserve, they will encounter diverse ecosystems, including tidal marshes, upland forests, and wetlands.

During their visit, guests may observe numerous rare plant species and over 100 types of birds and other wildlife. For those seeking a more adventurous approach, canoe rentals are available to reach the park from Milton by navigating the river.