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All the United States Delaware Lewes

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Lewes

8 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Lewes, Delaware

Updated June 21, 2024

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Unusual Attractions in Lewes

Zwaanendael Museum.

Lewes, Delaware

Zwaanendael Museum

A grotesque Fiji merman dwells within this traditional Dutch-style building.

Lewes, Delaware

Bunkers of Cape Henlopen State Park

World War II-era bunkers are hidden under the beaches of this picturesque park, which is still scattered with wartime watchtowers.

Lewes, Delaware

The Cannonball House

The historic home still shows the scars from a little run-in with the British in 1813.
Step right up for a shot and a history lesson.

Lewes, Delaware

Sussex Tavern at Rabbit’s Ferry House

Sip colonial-era cocktails at this monthly recreation of a 1740 watering hole.
The Fountain of Youth may be found in Lewes, Delaware.

Lewes, Delaware

The Fountain of Youth

What if the Fountain of Youth was actually found in Delaware? One historic coastal town believes it to be true.
Lewes Town Clock

Lewes, Delaware

Lewes Town Clock

Designed to commemorate the founding of the first settlement in Delaware.
The menhaden fishing net reel that was vital to Lewes’s maritime history.

Lewes, Delaware

Menhaden Fishing Net Reel

This controversial reel is an artifact of the largest fish processing plant in the country, and a symbol of Delaware's integration.
Permanently Closed

Lewes, Delaware

Roosevelt Inlet Shipwreck

A wrecked ship dating back to the American Revolution was only recently discovered off the Delaware coast.

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Lewes

Step right up for a shot and a history lesson.

Lewes, Delaware

Sussex Tavern at Rabbit’s Ferry House

Sip colonial-era cocktails at this monthly recreation of a 1740 watering hole.
In partnership with KAYAK

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Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Atlas Obscura Itineraries

Only In Delaware

Sponsored by Visit Delaware

Delaware may not be the largest state in the country (in fact, it’s the second-smallest, and could squeeze into the next biggest state, Connecticut, two times comfortably). It’s not the most metropolitan, either (in fact, its capital city, Dover, is one of the least populated capital cities in the country). Delaware is, however, the oldest state in the country. The rich history therein, along with the natural beauty of the Blue Hen State and the unique characters who have called it home, make it a true hidden gem. From opulent family gardens to cannonball-riddled homes to fascinating defense structures, this itinerary will guide you through some of the state’s most extraordinary attractions. Beside outdoor activities like kayaking, horseback-riding, and fishing, there’s also historic homes, museums, and art installations of unthinkable scale. Sometimes, it’s true what they say—the best things do come in small packages. Welcome to Delaware.

View Itinerary
One of the grandest spaces in the Nemours Estate, The Reception Hall is where the duPonts would celebrate Christmas.

Explore Lewes, Delaware

8
Aletrail 3
Museums 2
War History 2
Water 2
Military 2
Local History 2

Lewes Leaderboard

Places Added

  1. dogfishhead
    3
  2. ianlefk
    2
  3. horticulturcat
    1
  4. neon astrolabe
    1
  5. sethmilest
    1
Join the Ranks!
Add an unusual place to Lewes.

Places Edited

  1. Deniseg2266
    5
  2. blimpcaptain
    3
  3. ianlefk
    3
  4. neon astrolabe
    2
  5. mromaine
    1

Places Visited

  1. Scriv
    7
  2. KymberlyG
    7
  3. Edward Denny
    7
  4. douglasbarretr
    7
  5. ErinCeeCee
    7
Join the Ranks!
Visit a place in Lewes.

Recent Lewes Activity

  • jsbaughn60

    wants to go to Bunkers of Cape Henlopen State Park

    2 days ago
  • Deniseg2266

    has been to The Fountain of Youth

    1 day ago
  • Deniseg2266

    has been to Menhaden Fishing Net Reel

    1 day ago
  • mads00

    has been to The Cannonball House

    1 day ago

Stories About Lewes

The shores of Lewes support large populations of horseshoe crabs, especially during summer.

Photographs Capture the Ancient Elegance of Horseshoe Crabs

"Nature is there for you, especially when you need it."
by Claire Voon
April 20, 2020

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