Lewes, Delaware, often called “The First Town in the First State,” offers a charming blend of history, nature, and coastal experiences. This quaint town, nestled where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers visitors various enjoyable activities. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Lewes has something for everyone.
Let’s explore 23 fun activities that make Lewes a must-visit destination. Lewes, Delaware, may be small, but it’s packed with activities to suit every interest. History enthusiasts will delight in the town’s well-preserved buildings and museums. Nearby parks and wildlife refuges offer diverse ecosystems for nature lovers to explore. Foodies can enjoy fresh seafood and local produce, while shoppers can browse unique boutiques and galleries.
Explore Cape Henlopen State Park
Cape Henlopen State Park is a natural wonderland. Visitors can hike scenic trails, bike through pine forests, or relax on pristine beaches. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports wildlife, making it perfect for birdwatching and nature photography.
Visit the Lewes Historical Society
Step back in time at the Lewes Historical Society. This organization maintains several historic buildings and museums throughout town. You’ll learn about Lewes’ rich maritime history and its role in the founding of Delaware.
Stroll Through Historic Downtown Lewes
The town’s charming downtown area has unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Brick sidewalks and well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings create a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk.
Take A Ferry To Cape May
Hop aboard the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for a scenic 85-minute ride across Delaware Bay. In Cape May, New Jersey, you’ll find Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and excellent dining options.
Enjoy Water Activities At Lewes Beach
Lewes Beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The gentle waves make it ideal for families with young children.
Tour The Lightship Overfalls
Maritime history comes alive aboard the Lightship Overfalls. This floating museum, one of only 17 remaining lightships in the U.S., offers guided tours highlighting its role in maritime safety.
Visit The Zwaanendael Museum
This unique museum, designed to resemble the town hall in Hoorn, Netherlands, showcases Lewes’ Dutch heritage. Exhibits cover local history from the 17th century to the present.
Go Fishing
Anglers will find plenty of opportunities in Lewes. Cast a line from the fishing pier at Cape Henlopen State Park, or join a chartered deep-sea fishing excursion.
Attend The Lewes Farmers Market
From May to November, the Historic Lewes Farmers Market offers fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items every Saturday morning.
Explore The Cannonball House
This 18th-century house, which still bears a cannonball from the War of 1812, now serves as a maritime museum. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Lewes’ seafaring past.
Bike The Junction And Breakwater Trail
This six-mile trail connects Lewes to nearby Rehoboth Beach. It offers beautiful views of coastal wetlands and follows the path of a former railroad line.
Visit The Lewes Canalfront Park
This waterfront park provides a peaceful spot for picnics, fishing, or enjoying the view. It’s also a great place to watch boats navigating the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal.
Take A Ghost Tour
For a spooky evening activity, join a ghost tour of Lewes. These tours combine local history with tales of paranormal encounters in some of the town’s oldest buildings.
Enjoy Ice Cream At Hopkins Farm Creamery
This local favorite serves delicious homemade ice cream. The creamery is part of a working dairy farm, adding to its charm and authenticity.
Visit The Ryves Holt House
The Ryves Holt House, dating back to 1665, is the oldest standing building in Delaware. It now serves as a museum and the Lewes Historical Society’s visitor center.
Attend The Lewes Tulip Festival
Each April, Lewes celebrates its Dutch heritage with a colorful tulip festival. Thousands of tulips bloom throughout town, accompanied by special events and tours.
Explore The Fort Miles Historical Area
Fort Miles, located within Cape Henlopen State Park, was crucial in coastal defense during World War II. Today, visitors can tour restored gun batteries and climb the observation tower.
Go Birdwatching At Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Just a short drive from Lewes, Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a birdwatcher’s haven. The refuge’s diverse habitats attract over 300 species of birds throughout the year.
Visit The Lewes History Museum
Housed in the former Lewes School building, this museum offers interactive exhibits that bring local history to life. It’s a great place to start your exploration of Lewes’ past.
Enjoy A Sunset Cruise
Several local companies offer sunset cruises on the Delaware Bay. These relaxing boat rides provide stunning coastline views and often include wildlife sightings.
Attend A Performance At Coastal Concerts
Coastal Concerts brings world-class classical musicians to Lewes. Performances are held in the acoustically excellent Bethel United Methodist Church Hall.
Explore The Nassau Valley Vineyards
Just outside Lewes, Nassau Valley Vineyards offers wine tastings and tours. It’s Delaware’s first and only award-winning winery, producing a variety of reds, whites, and fruit wines.
Visit During The Lewes Maritime Day
Held annually in May, Lewes Maritime Day celebrates the town’s seafaring heritage. The event features boat tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Conclusion
The town’s compact size makes exploring on foot or by bike easy. Its location also provides easy access to nearby beach towns like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach, allowing visitors to experience the best of Delaware’s coast.
Whether planning a weekend getaway or a more extended vacation, Lewes offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals create a welcoming environment for all visitors. From its beautiful beaches to its rich history, Lewes truly embodies the charm of a small coastal town.
As you plan your visit to Lewes, consider the time of year. Summer offers warm weather and bustling activity, while fall provides cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winter can be quiet but offers its charm, and spring brings colorful blooms and the famous tulip festival.
No matter when you visit or what activities you choose, Lewes will leave you with lasting memories. Its unique combination of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm makes it a destination unlike any other on the East Coast. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore all that Lewes, Delaware, has to offer.