Delaware

9 Prettiest Towns to Visit in Delaware

Published

2 years ago

August 18, 2024

The oldest state in America, Delaware harbors a rich tapestry of national history woven among its scenic landscapes and shores along the Delaware River and Bay. From its founding in colonial times through the era that shaped our nation’s core values, Delaware’s small towns tell an enlightening story. Spread across the diverse landscapes of the First State; these pretty hamlets have all the hallmarks of a satisfying getaway. From riverfront ports offering a window to bygone trade missions to quaint villages enjoying rebirths as art communities, they reward travelers with captivating history, iconic landmarks, and vistas around each bend.

If you are planning a tour of the East Coast, these exciting towns to visit in Delaware promise an unforgettable vacation, whether a history enthusiast, culinary connoisseur, culture vulture, or outdoor thrill seeker.

Rehoboth Beach

Sunrise on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Editorial credit: Michelangelo DeSantis / Shutterstock.com

Rehoboth Beach’s tiny population of about 1,200 permanent residents grows over tenfold in the summer as a barrage of beach-loving tourists descend upon the adorable town. Set on the scenic Atlantic Coast, it enjoys stunning beach scenery that complements its cozy, sunny weather. The mile-long Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk presents a popular visitor hub where the young and old converge to explore a blend of family-friendly attractions, from amusement parks and restaurants to beach stores and souvenir shops. The town has ample opportunities for good-natured social interactions, especially at the weekly Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market.

Year-round events and festivals help keep Rehoboth Beach on many travelers’ itineraries, and the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand serves as the town’s primary entertainment center during summer. This open-air venue hosts a string of concerts featuring enthralling live performances.

New Castle

Situated less than 15 minutes from Wilmington, this historic community on the Delaware River offers a relaxed escape from the big city. Thanks to a rich heritage spanning over three centuries, it is the perfect destination for historically inclined travelers. This manifests through the numerous historical sites across the town, housed in rustic buildings with conspicuous red-brick construction. The Amstel House Museum is an excellent example, a well-preserved colonial mansion from the 1730s. Touring the Read House & Gardens delivers a glimpse into the late 18th century inside a Federal-style mansion.

Meanwhile, the Dutch House Museum is one of the town’s oldest structures, dating back to the 1600s. Inside the venue, guests can explore a library of historical information and artifacts documenting Dutch heritage in the area. Beyond this rich past, New Castle welcomes tourists to shop for farm produce, handicrafts, and collectibles at the bustling New Castle Farmers Market.

Lewes

Rich history meets scenic outdoors in this coastal community on Delaware Bay. Lewes was the state’s first European settlement, settled by the Dutch in 1631. Its long and colorful past is preserved at the Lewes Historical Historical Society through old photographs, archives, and artifacts. Visitors can delve deeper into local history at the Zwaanendael Museum, which commemorates Delaware’s first European settlement and is modeled after the former city hall in Hoorn, Netherlands. Touring the facility reveals a selection of artifacts chronicling the region’s social, military, and maritime heritage.

The Historic Lewes Farmers Market supplies residents and visitors with fresh produce straight from the farm, from vegetables and fruits to meats. It also offers an opportunity to mingle with townsfolk and experience local culture. Finally, Pirates of Lewes are among the different outfitters that take visitors on themed boat tours for a unique experience.

Milton

This quaint village in Sussex County lies along the banks of the Broadkill River, which flows into the Delaware Bay. Its origin traces back to 1672 when English colonists settled in the area, later becoming a vital shipbuilding hub. This rich history comes alive in the Milton Historic District, which houses over 150 historical structures from the 1700s to the early 1900s. The Milton Historical Society lures those curious to uncover the town’s past with enlightening exhibits. Milton is also known for its thriving cultural scene, which newcomers can sample by catching entertaining live shows at the Milton Theatre.

Milton Memorial Park assures guests of readily available outdoor opportunities. This riverside reserve offers a chill atmosphere for those who enjoy rich natural settings. It has a nice walking path and picnic spaces, and the Broadkill River is accessible if you fancy a laid-back kayaking or canoeing excursion.

Bethany Beach

First-timers easily fall for the small-town charm and beautiful vistas synonymous with this coastal community. Walking down the Bethany Beach Boardwalk hints at why Bethany Beach is considered among the most charming towns to visit in Delaware. The area boasts a festive atmosphere with a mix of shopping spots, dining outlets, and souvenir shops to explore while taking in the fresh Atlantic breeze. Further inland, the Bethany Beach Nature Center exposes you to gorgeous greenery spread across an approximately 26-acre park with tidal wetlands and forested upland habitats.

Bethany Beach has the ideal vibe for a remarkable family getaway, a credit to attractions like the Shore Fun Family Fun Center. The fabulous facility guarantees wholesome fun for all ages with various entertaining activities, such as pinball machines, arcade games, and air hockey.

Georgetown

Tourists visiting Georgetown keep returning for the immersive historical journey it delivers. The seat of Sussex County has a rich legacy stretching back to the 18th century and harbors numerous landmarks and sites preserving its past. Prominent among these is the Marvel Carriage Museum, which exhibits a collection of restored buildings and antique carriages depicting life in the formative eras. Meanwhile, the Georgetown Train Station documents the town’s railroad heritage inside a 19th-century facility.

With multiple antique shops spread across downtown, guests can leave with a piece of the town to remind them of the experience by shopping at the Georgetown Antiques Market. Art lovers will, however, prefer to get cultured by watching a delightful live performance at Possum Point Players.

Dover

Despite being Delaware’s capital, Dover has a quintessential small-town feel with a population under 40,000 and lovely natural spaces. Most travelers praise the community for its impressive blend of attractions, which caters to all visitor preferences. History enthusiasts are spoilt for choice and can find a treasure trove of sites to explore, including the First State Heritage Park and the Johnson Victrola Museum. Elsewhere, art enthusiasts can look forward to visual and performance art experiences at the Biggs Museum of American Art and the Schwartz Center for the Arts, respectively.

Finally, ardent outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring Silver Lake Park to enjoy its recreational opportunities. This urban oasis features an easygoing and welcoming atmosphere that draws adventurers to stroll along its wooded trails, picnic on its grassy grounds, and fish for striped bass, catfish, and bluegill in Silver Lake.

Middletown

This lovely community of about 25,000 is home to the Delaware Technical Community College. Its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals allow first-timers to feel at home. This is evident at the Dutch Country Farmers Market, where you can interact with down-to-earth local vendors while combing through diverse Amish delicacies, including fresh baked goods, dairy products, and artisanal candles. The Charles E. Price Memorial Park provides a lovely escape to the great outdoors with its quiet walking trails, peaceful picnic pavilions, and an idyllic fishing pond.

Art lovers and movie enthusiasts can converge at the Everett in downtown Middletown for a compelling cultural experience. This iconic venue hosts varying events to entertain the audience, from local art exhibitions and live stage productions to cinematic films. It was immortalized in the 1989 flick “Dead Poets Society.”

Fenwick Island

Fenwick Island is the perfect Delaware getaway for those seeking an escape from the crowds to unwind and forget all their troubles. With less than 400 people calling it home, tourists can comfortably explore miles of pristine, sandy shores without competition. This is best embodied by the 344 acres of Fenwick Island State Park, which promises a mix of secluded beaches, charming picnic areas, and designated surfing spots. The area’s maritime past comes alive at the DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum, which displays a collection of treasures salvaged from numerous shipwrecks off the Atlantic Coast.

Guests can also witness and learn about one of the state’s oldest lighthouses by touring the nearby Fenwick Island Lighthouse, a rustic landmark dating back to 1858. Before leaving the island, remember to buy a precious souvenir at the Seaside Country Store to keep the fun memories.

Delaware’s Must-Visit Small Towns

The First State is an inviting destination that lets travelers delve into the landmark years that made America what it is today. However, it also harbors unmatched natural beauty and cultural heritage, which become evident when you explore the most exciting towns to visit in Delaware. From walking along picturesque riverfronts to strolling through well-preserved downtown streets, visitors gain vivid lessons in local history and character. Planning your travel itinerary around any of the above offers the perfect introduction to this enduring home of American tradition.

Source link

Delaware

Bill to create film tax credit clears Delaware House committee

Published

1 hour ago

May 7, 2026

Press Room

Bill to create film tax credit clears Delaware House committee

A Delaware bill creating a film production tax credit cleared its first hurdle May 6, advancing out of the House Revenue & Finance Committee.

Several states offer film and television production tax credits and other incentives to lure projects, often to boost jobs, tourism and visibility.

Delaware does not – at least for now.

The proposal mirrors a recommendation in Delaware’s 5% operational spending growth and accompanying revenue plan, released alongside Gov. Matt Meyer’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, and would put the state in line with most of the country.

What does the bill do?

Backed by House Majority Leader Kerri Evelyn Harris, this House bill would create a new film production tax credit for the First State.

Delaware remains one of a few states that does not already have a film tax credit or a similar incentive in place, according to the Dover Democrat.

This means that spending in these sectors – from hotel stays to equipment rentals – is going to other states.

And while other revenue streams have served and continue to serve Delaware well, Harris said, it is also crucial to ensure the state is positioned “for the next generation of economic growth.”

The bill would offer eligible productions – including films, TV shows and video games — a nonrefundable tax credit equal to 30% of qualified expenses, usable against personal income and corporate taxes.

To qualify, companies must show their activities resulted in expenditures more than $500,000 during any consecutive 12-month period. They must also present opportunities to Delawareans to come onboard projects as interns.

Companies must also obtain “an independent audit” out of their own pockets, authenticating eligible expenses. These expenses can include any cost tied back to production, pre-production or post-production that took place within state lines.

These credits would also be transferrable – so long as they are approved by the state Division of Small Business – and can be extended for upwards of five years.

This bill mirrors a similar proposal included in a presented 5% operational spending growth and adjoining revenue plan.

The plan set aside up to $10 million in new revenue for a film tax credit to spur Delaware’s creative economy, though the actual cost would depend on how many productions apply.

Should this bill become law, the state will have a similar cap at $10 million every year, according to Harris.

This isn’t the first time lawmakers have seen this legislation.

In the hours before last year’s session ended, state Rep. Michael Smith backed a bill that would also establish a film tax credit for Delaware.

Also known as the Delaware Entertainment Job Act, the bill would have also established a 30%, “transferable tax credit for an investment in the state” for qualified productions.

Like its legislative relative, the bill would have required productions to bring First State residents as interns to qualify for this credit, as well as produce an audit of expenditures once production has wrapped.

Doing this, the bill argued, would spur job creation, artistic ventures and investment in the media industry.

The bill was also assigned to the House Revenue & Finance Committee, but did not advance. Smith signed on as a co-prime sponsor of this latest bill, according to Harris.

Former Rep. Valerie Longhurst introduced a near-verbatim measure to Smith’s bill back in 2022, but it did not make it all the way through the House.

What do lawmakers, Delawareans think?

For the most part, committee members were receptive to the bill.

Rep. Kendra Johnson was enthusiastic about the bill, asking to come on board as a co-signer of the bill.

She pointed to the HBO crime drama series “Task,” whose entire second season is scheduled to be filmed entirely in southeastern Pennsylvania, starting July 6.

Delaware’s neighbor state was reportedly investing $49.8 million into the project – the largest tax credit bestowed by the state to a single production, as reported by WHYY last year.

The projection is also set to create 3,700 jobs and infuse $194.1 million back into its economy.

Pennsylvania’s current tax credit program offers a 25% to 30% credit to productions that spend no lesser than 60% of their total funds within state lines.

“Imagine the economic growth that is happening there, that could be happening here,” Johnson told the panel.

Others have thrown their support behind bringing a film tax credit to Delaware.

Meyer is one such advocate. He mentioned during his State of the State address that Delaware not offering film tax credits made no sense, considering the latest Superman movie is “literally set” in the First State.

“They should be shooting here,” he said. “We’re just going to let so many other neighboring states soak up all of that Hollywood money?”

Other groups, including the Delaware Arts Alliance and the Delaware Hotel & Lodging Association, have also thrown their support behind the bill, Harris said.

What happens now?

The bill will continue to move through the House.

If signed into law, it would take effect starting July 1, the first day of the new fiscal year.

But lawmakers will need to move quickly – they only have until June 30 to have it passed in both chambers. Otherwise, they’ll need to start all over again come next session.

Olivia Montes covers state government and community impact for Delaware Online/The News Journal. If you have a tip or a story idea, reach out to her at omontes@delawareonline.com.

Source link

Delaware

Motorcyclist dies in Ogletown crash as traffic deaths surge in Delaware

Published

14 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Press Room

Motorcyclist dies in Ogletown crash as traffic deaths surge in Delaware

A 34-year-old Newark motorcyclist has died following an evening crash May 5 in Ogletown, Delaware State Police said.

The motorcyclist’s name was withheld by police on May 6 until his family could be notified.

The Ogletown crash is one of six fatalities that have plagued officials across the state since May 4, according to the Delaware Department of Transportation. Officials added that between the night of May 5 into the morning of May 6, was the deadliest 12 hours on Delaware roads in nearly six years.

“It’s certainly alarming to have more than 15% of our total fatalities to date this year happen over the past four days,” C.R. McLeod, a DelDOT spokesman, told Delaware Online/The News Journal.

Other fatal crashes that occurred in that 12-hour span include:

A motorcycle crash in Stanton that left a 29-year-old Wilmington man dead when he ran a red light and his Harley-Davidson Sportster struck a Nissan Rogue at the Churchmans Road intersection with Center Pointe Plaza about 7:20 p.m. May 5, Delaware State Police said.
A crash in Dover that killed a 26-year-old woman who struck a tree about 1 a.m. May 6, Dover police said.
A 23-year-old Millsboro woman was killed when she failed to navigate a curve on Coastal Highway north of Lewes about 1:30 a.m. May 6, Delaware State Police said.

As of May 6, DelDOT was reporting 38 traffic fatalities on Delaware roads – a 27% jump from last year at the same time.

Ogletown crash

As the man was riding a Honda CBR east on Christiana Road toward Harmony Road, police said, an Audi Q5 was turning left from westbound Christiana Road into McIntosh Plaza.

For reasons still under investigation, the Honda struck the Audi’s passenger side about 6 p.m., police said. This caused the motorcyclist to be ejected.

The motorcyclist was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The Audi’s driver, a 37-year-old Bear man, did not report any injuries, police said.

Troopers are asking anyone with information about the Ogletown crash to contact investigators at (302) 365-8483. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or by contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) 847-3333.

Source link

Delaware

Pick your own strawberries at these Delaware farms this spring

Published

1 day ago

May 6, 2026

Press Room

Pick your own strawberries at these Delaware farms this spring

Late spring is prime strawberry season in Delaware, and we’ve gathered all you need to know to embark on a strawberry-picking adventure.

With clear skies and plenty of sunshine, picking a bucket of Delaware’s official fruit is a great family outing or something fun to do with friends, while also supporting local farmers.

Before you go, make sure you check the weather forecast, pack a water bottle and apply sunscreen. It is also recommended that you wear closed-toe shoes when picking produce on the farms.

For anyone who is new to the world of strawberry picking, all you have to do is pinch the green stem between your thumb and index finger, then lightly pull and twist at the same time.

A few more key tips for a successful berry bounty include picking only strawberries that are fully red, looking through plant beds that are less picked over and not picking any berries with white tips, green berries or strawberry flowers.

To help your strawberries last longer, refrigerate them as soon as possible after picking them and only wash them right before you plan to eat them. If you won’t be using them soon after picking them, wash them, remove the stems and freeze them.

Now that we’ve gone through the basics, here are several local farms ready to provide a day full of strawberry picking:

Fifer Orchards, Camden

Recognized as a Delaware century family farm, having opened in 1919, Fifer Orchards in Camden offers strawberry picking Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the U-Pick experience. U-Play admission features yard games perfect for families, with picnic tables and restrooms for public use. Saturday admission requires an all-inclusive Spring Fest ticket.

You also can stop by the Farm Store to purchase local goodies and a selection of the orchard’s fresh fruits and vegetables.

If you find yourself getting hungry after picking strawberries, the Farm Kitchen building sells lunch and dessert items including cider doughnuts, strawberry ice cream, apple cider slushies and homemade strawberry shortcakes.

Looking for another u-pick offering? Fifer Orchards Provides u-pick blueberries in June and July from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and u-pick peaches on Fridays and Saturdays in July and early August from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. U-pick flowers are available from July to mid-August Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The farm uses its Facebook page to keep guests updated on daily picking conditions and orchard offerings.

1919 Allabands Mill Road, Camden, (302) 697-2141; fiferorchards.com/.

Hundred Acre Farms, Smyrna

Hundred Acre Farms in Smyrna is located on about three acres of land and focuses on fruits, vegetables, bees, small batch jams and Christmas trees. Purchased in 1938, the farm is nearly a century old.

The small family farm offers strawberry picking while they are in season. The farm said in an April 21 Facebook post that u-pick strawberries will begin in May, so stay tuned for updates on when the berries are ready.

Following your day in the fields, check out some of their homemade honey jams that come in two strawberry flavors. Their red, black and blue jam is made with strawberries, blackberries and blueberries, and their strawberry apple jam, one of their most popular flavors, includes strawberries, apples, honey and no added sugar.

If you’re unable to partake in a day of fruit picking but still want fresh local produce, Hundred Acre Farms offers a pick-up option so visitors can have their favorite farm produce set aside for them. All you need to do is reserve your items through the farm and they will deliver the order right to your car when you arrive.

2124 Vandyke Greenspring Road, Smyrna, (602) 689-6403; hundredacrefarms.org/.

Twisted Steel Cattle Co. LLC, Harrington

In Harrington, Twisted Steel Cattle Co. LLC is a farm market specializing in homegrown beef, produce and other goods.

Strawberry picking is usually open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine, but keep an eye on Twisted Steel’s Facebook page for daily updates on picking conditions.

If you want more strawberry goodness, they offer prepicked strawberries by the quart, berries for dipping or that have been pre-dipped and fresh strawberry jam.

Preorder and pickup options also are available for any of their market offerings.

14255 S. DuPont Hwy., Harrington, (302) 566-6943; facebook.com/TwistedSteelBeef/.

Parsons Farms Produce, Dagsboro

Parsons Farms Produce in Dagsboro began offering U-Pick strawberries by the gallon in April.

Strawberry picking is typically open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. If you want more strawberry goodness, they offer prepicked strawberries by the quart, berries for dipping or that have been pre-dipped and fresh strawberry jam.

To make the U-Pick outing complete, they also have fresh beef for sale, a country store filled with fresh produce, ice cream, events and farm animals available for feeding and petting.

Blueberries and peaches are also available in the spring and summer months. The farm’s Facebook page will provide u-pick updates as the crops change.

30391 Armory Road, Dagsboro, (302) 732-3336;parsonsfarmsproduce.com/.

Ramsey’s Farm, Brandywine Hundred

Ramsey’s Farm in Brandywine Hundred has plenty of U-Pick options throughout the year, including strawberries. The farm announced on Facebook in late April that strawberry U-Pick season was about one month away. Stay tuned on their social media for more updates.

Beyond berries, flowers will be available at Ramsey’s farm stand later in the year, along U-Pick pumpkins and a variety of fall fun.

440 Ramsey Road, Brandywine Hundred, (302) 496-6426; ramseysfarm.com/.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys’tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.

Source link