Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Laurel, Delaware

Beautiful, historic, and natural are all terms that accurately capture the essence of the quaint town of Laurel in Sussex County, Delaware. With a modest population of approximately 4,000 residents, this Atlantic Coastal Plain town on the Delmarva Peninsula offers visitors a serene and tranquil getaway distinct from the hustle and bustle of larger cities and towns just a short drive away.

Laurel is primarily recognized for its outdoor recreational offerings, which include hiking, biking, bird watching, nature observation, and horseback riding. The township is enveloped by natural beauty, featuring the picturesque Broad Creek and several ponds and lakes, such as Trap Pond, Chipman’s Pond, and Tussock Pond, which are particularly favored by canoeists, kayakers, and anglers.

Additionally, Laurel boasts a rich historical background, contributing to the presence of numerous buildings that have earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Throughout the year, various popular events occur in Laurel, including the Party at the Pond/Jeep Jamboree in April and the Broad Creek Bike and Brew in June.

Below are 15 notable activities to engage in during your visit to Laurel, Delaware.

1. Enjoy a meal at Abbott’s on Broad Creek

Patrons can anticipate fresh and innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients when dining at Abbott’s on Broad Creek, situated in the heart of downtown Laurel. The establishment serves lunch and dinner daily, complemented by a daily happy hour.

The restaurant emphasizes American cuisine, featuring a diverse menu that includes cheeseburgers, crab cake sandwiches, smoked turkey Reuben, Buffalo chicken BLT, BBQ brisket, and a selection of delectable desserts. On pleasant days, guests may choose to dine in the outdoor seating area.

2. Trap Pond State Park

Once home to expansive freshwater wetlands, Trap Pond State Park preserves the remaining beauty of that ecosystem. A notable and intriguing aspect of the park is the grove of Bald Cypress Trees, which are uncommon in northern climates.

There are numerous opportunities to appreciate the park’s natural beauty and surroundings. Visitors can hike along the pond, where anglers pursue various species, including crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. While exploring, one might encounter the native wildlife, including bald eagles, blue herons, hummingbirds, and woodpeckers.

The park features a nature center that educates guests about its environment, with rowboats, pedal boats, and kayaks available for rental. Additional amenities include a playground, volleyball courts, a disc golf course, and horseshoe pits.

3. Visit the Treasures of the Sea Exhibit

Notable treasure hunter Mel Fisher unearthed a stunning treasure during his discovery of the Atocha wreck. This treasure is now featured at the Treasures of the Sea Exhibit located in nearby Georgetown.

The permanent exhibit showcases millions of dollars in artifacts, including silver bars, coins, bronze cannons, South American emeralds, and various religious items.

In addition, the exhibit offers detailed information about Spain and its colonies, the ship’s history, and the treasure hunt. Guests can view a video detailing the search, and a gift shop is available, offering actual coins recovered from the wreck.

4. Explore Holts Landing State Park

The relatively undiscovered Holts Landing Park in Dagsboro encompasses 203 acres of picturesque landscapes. The park features various environments, including a beach area, open fields, and hardwood forests.

Visitors can explore the 1.4-mile-long Seahawk Nature Trail, engage in paddling, fishing, and picnicking.

5. Get a history lesson at the Laurel Heritage Museum

Occupying the historic Laurel Train Station, the Laurel Heritage Museum serves as the place where townsfolk once welcomed visitors. The museum displays a diverse collection of historical artifacts and documents, allowing guests to gain insight into the town’s vibrant history.

6. Nanticoke Indian Museum

As the only Native American museum in Delaware, the Nanticoke Indian Museum offers visitors in nearby Millsboro a comprehensive exploration of a proud heritage, culture, and history.

Visitors receive extensive historical insights through various exhibits that present artifacts passed down by community elders. The displays highlight items of cultural and historical significance, including tools, a wooden canoe, traditional clothing, weaponry, pottery, artwork, and items dated back over 8,000 years.

Guests also learn about native arts and may acquire items such as jewelry and dream catchers from the onsite gift shop. Guided tours are available.

7. Spend an afternoon browsing Laurel Junction

Laurel Junction is a vibrant indoor/outdoor flea market featuring an array of shops and vendors operating throughout the week.

Shoppers can discover exceptional bargains on an extensive assortment of items, including clothing, antiques, cosmetics, jewelry, fresh produce, baked goods, collectibles, crafts, comic books, sporting goods, and artwork. The site also includes a convenience store, food court, and a full-service restaurant, with entertainment options available on weekends.

8. The Seaford Museum

Located in nearby Seaford, the Seaford Museum, situated in the old post office, features various exhibits showcasing thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of the country, state, town, and surrounding region.

The restored structure itself is worth seeing, combining modern features with historical charm. Inside, guests learn about the area’s natural resources, the Nanticoke Indians, agricultural practices, shipbuilding, and railway history. The museum also features a variety of rotating exhibits and an onsite gift shop.

9. Spend a day in nature at the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Those interested in wildlife observation can visit the expansive 10,144-acre Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Milton. Originally established as a sanctuary for migratory birds, this refuge now invites exploration along the shores of Delaware Bay.

Visitors can expect to encounter various wildlife, including numerous bird species and an array of fish and mammals. The refuge features multiple habitats, such as wooded swamps, upland grasslands, forested areas, and both saltwater and freshwater marshes.

10. Indulge in some comfort food at Laurel Pizzeria

When seeking delicious pizza, Laurel Pizzeria offers award-winning varieties that have garnered local acclaim as one of the finest in the region. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident, with daily preparation of pizza dough and sauce from the freshest ingredients.

The menu features a wide selection of familiar favorites, including signature dishes like crab cakes, pasta, subs, sandwiches, burgers, wings, and salads. The staff provides friendly service within a relaxed atmosphere.

11. Explore the Marvel Carriage Museum

Delve into the history of the area with a visit to the Marvel Carriage Museum in Georgetown. The tour begins with an exploration of various exhibits, including a collection of Victrolas, photographs, vintage telephones, and antique furnishings.

The museum also features historic structures such as an old schoolhouse and two large barns housing a range of carriages, including an antique horse-drawn hearse.

12. Cape Henlopen State Park

Visitors can dedicate an entire day to exploring Cape Henlopen State Park, located near Lewes, and partake in a multitude of activities. Popular pursuits include canoeing, disc golf, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and geocaching.

The park features both biking and hiking trails, along with a lifeguard-supervised beach that attracts numerous locals and visitors during warm days. Additional facilities include campgrounds, picnic tables, and restrooms.

While exploring the park, guests can visit the Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area, which highlights the region’s significance during World War II. The Seaside Nature Center includes a live osprey camera, large fish tanks, a touch tank with stingrays, and a gift shop.

13. Hit the greens at Heritage Shores Golf Course

Designed by architect Arthur Hills, the Heritage Shores Golf Course in Bridgeville represents a meticulously maintained par 72 course featuring challenges at each hole. Golfers will encounter water hazards, bunkers, and undulating fairways as they navigate to the 18th hole. On-site practice facilities and one of the finest driving ranges in the state complement the course.

14. Visit the classic amusements at Funland

Situated along the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Funland offers entertainment and excitement for families. This amusement park features 20 exhilarating rides suitable for both younger and older children, alongside midway games, an arcade, and a shooting gallery. Additionally, a haunted mansion is part of the experience.

15. Explore Killens Pond State Park

At Killens Pond State Park in Felton, visitors can engage in various activities, including birdwatching and boating. The park includes amenities such as baseball fields, boat rentals, camping areas, a disc golf course, horseshoe pits, picnic spaces, hiking and biking trails, and restrooms.

The pond is favored by anglers, offering fishing opportunities for species like bass, catfish, perch, and bluegills. The Killens Pond Nature Center features exhibits that educate visitors about local wildlife.