The Lewes Historical Society is a reputed organization that has been preserving and maintaining the city's heritage sites since 1961. The society is responsible for maintaining nearly twelve historic houses and museums that are considered a precious heritage of the beautiful town. Besides preserving these archaic edifices, The Lewes Historical Society also organizes various local events such as art and craft exhibitions, fairs, festivals and special events on a regular basis. During Christmas, the society enables visitors to explore the historic houses as homeowners open their doors for public tours and visits.
Funded in the 1960s, Cape Henlopen State Park is an oceanfront nature park that attracts tourists with both its natural beauty and a plethora of activities. You can walk along the pristine beaches and watch the sun go down into the North Atlantic Ocean, spend an hour or two birdwatching from the splendid watch tower, indulge in a relaxing fishing expedition, or spend an adventurous night camping out in the wilderness. The place also has a few historical structures such as the observation tower dating back to the times of World War II and gun batteries from the 1970s.
The Zwaanendael were the Dutch immigrants to Delaware in the early-17th Century. They formed the first colonial settlement in Delaware, and this site is now known as the city of Lewes. Three centuries later, Zwaanendael Museum was established to celebrate the legacy of these early inhabitants of Delaware. The museum building is a beautiful brick structure, replicating the town hall of the Dutch city of Hoorn. The two floors of this museum feature exhibits displaying the life of the first settlers as well as the local history of Lewes.
Commissioned during the time of the Second World War, the United States Lightship Overfalls was one of the vessels of the United States Coast Guard. The museum ship can now be viewed on public tours in Lewes. The interiors have been restored with all the original knobs and gears, which have been preserved well. This ship is one of the only remaining lightships that were built between 1820 and 1850, making it an unmissable attraction to witness a rich piece of history first hand.
The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House finds home in the historic building that dates back to the year 1765. A treat for history buffs and maritime enthusiasts, the museum explores the nautical history and heritage of Lewes through a variety of exhibits. Here, you can admire rare maritime art pieces, unique memorabilia, old local artifacts, photographs, and much more. Unique exhibits at the site include the iconic cannon ball in the wall and the Fresnel Lens of Fourteen Foot Bank Lighthouse.
This stunning beacon stands tall overlooking the town of Lewes at the mouth of Delaware Bay. Constructed in 1908, the Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse was built to function along with the Delaware Breakwater East End Light. When the old lighthouse moved a few inches due to a storm, it was rendered inoperable and a stronger structure made of cast-iron was built in its place. Today, the lighthouse serves as a significant landmark of Lewes, exemplifying its intriguing maritime heritage. Visitors can admire the lighthouse on a ferry or up-close by foot, and capture its beauty in the lens.
Delaware Breakwater East End Light is a historic lighthouse in the Delaware Bay. With its history dating back to 1885 when it was commissioned to replace the Cape Henlopen Beacon, the lighthouse now forms part of the intriguing maritime heritage of Lewes. Standing at a height of 49 feet (15 meters) and overlooking the sparkling waters of the ocean, the Delaware Breakwater East End Light makes for a postcard-perfect sight in the town. When in town, take a stroll down Cape Henlopen and admire this beautiful remnant of the bygone era.
Fort Miles is a historic landmark in Delaware, located on Cape Henlopen. The construction of the fort began in 1938 and was completed in 1941, when it was named after Lieutenant General Nelson A. Miles. Today, the iconic observation tower of the fort from World War II has been carefully restored and offers beautiful views of the town. The historic site of Battery Smith is now home to a museum that explores the history of the fort and the role of Delaware in the Second World War.
Lewes Beach is a sandy beach overlooking the azure waters of Delaware Bay. Its shallow, shimmering shore makes Lewes Beach the perfect swimming destination in the town for the whole family. Spend a leisurely day at the beach as you start by taking a long stroll along its glittering stretch, enjoy a picnic with your loved ones, splash around amid the undulating waves, play beach games, take a boat out into the sea, or try your luck at fishing. With a variety of waterside activities to be enjoyed, Lewes Beach makes for an exciting family attraction.
The Fisher Martin House is a historic house in Lewes located next to the iconic Zwaanendael Museum. Built in the mid-18th Century, the house is a significant landmark that now forms a part of the town's rich heritage. Today, it houses the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. Featuring wooden walls and a gambrel roof, the beautiful house exudes archaic, fairytale-like vibes. When in town, take a walk down the streets to locate this old structure and stop by to admire its simple yet gorgeous architecture.
Lewes Canalfront Park is a popular recreational park among locals and tourists alike. Stretching along the beautiful azure waters of the canal in Lewes, the park is steeped in history, dating back to the time when it was a ship-launching hub for early Dutch settlers. Today, the beautiful green park serves as a tranquil space to have long walks by the marina, enjoy picnicking, and partake in sports activities. Spend a leisurely afternoon with your loved ones at the park, enjoy fishing at the pier, or play a game of pickleball or tennis as you bask in the pleasant waterside atmosphere.