Lewes Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Lewes serves as a tranquil counterpoint to the high-energy beach towns further south. As the “First Town in the First State,” it wears its history with a dignified pride, evident in the preserved 18th-century homes and the Dutch influence that still permeates the architecture. Here, the roar of the ocean is swapped for the gentle lapping of the Delaware Bay, and the boardwalk is replaced by brick-lined sidewalks and a scenic canal front.

Life in Lewes moves at the pace of a slow-drifting schooner. It is a place where locals cycle to the farmers market, fishing boats unload their daily catch at the harbor, and the sunset is a community event. Whether you are exploring the dunes of Cape Henlopen or sipping a craft beer by a fire pit, Lewes invites you to slow down and savor the maritime heritage.

The First Town in the First State

Lewes traces its roots back to 1631, when Dutch settlers established the Zwaanendael colony. This deep history separates it from typical resort towns. Walking down Second Street feels like stepping into a living museum, where the Ryves Holt House, the oldest standing building in Delaware, stands as a testament to the town’s resilience against pirates and British naval bombardments.

The town’s maritime legacy is not just in the past; it is a living part of the culture. From the active Pilots’ Association that guides massive cargo ships up the bay to the University of Delaware’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment campus, the connection to the water is fundamental. Visitors can feel this connection by touring the Lightship Overfalls, a floating lighthouse that once guarded the perilous coast.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Cape Henlopen State Park - A massive coastal preserve featuring the famous “Point” where the bay meets the ocean. It includes a fishing pier, a nature center, and the Fort Miles historical area. Entry is $10 for out-of-state vehicles.

Zwaanendael Museum - An architectural gem built in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the first settlement. It features Dutch-style stepped gables and fascinating local exhibits. Admission is free, though donations are welcome.

Lightship Overfalls - One of only 17 remaining lightships in the United States, designated a National Historic Landmark. Tours take you below deck to see how the crew lived. located on the canal front. Admission is approx $5 per adult.

Cannonball House - Home of the Lewes Historical Society’s maritime museum. It is famous for having an actual cannonball from the War of 1812 stuck in its foundation. Located on Front Street. Admission is approx $5.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Lewes is part of the adventure. If you are coming from the south (New Jersey/New York), the Cape May-Lewes Ferry is a relaxing 85-minute shortcut that drops you right at the edge of town. From the west or north, you will likely arrive via Delaware Route 1. Once you arrive, the town is incredibly walkable, but bringing a bicycle is highly recommended to access the State Park and the Junction & Breakwater Trail.

Pack layers, even in summer, as the breeze off the Delaware Bay can cool things down in the evening. If you plan to visit the beaches at Cape Henlopen, arrive before 10:00 AM on summer weekends to ensure you get a parking spot. Don’t forget quarters or a parking app for downtown, as meters are strictly enforced during the season.

Lewes is a year-round community that shines brightest when you can enjoy the outdoors. While summer offers the classic beach experience, the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall provide the perfect balance of warm weather and local tranquility. Whenever you choose to visit, you will find a welcoming town that perfectly blends its storied past with coastal relaxation.