History in the making: Uncover summer charms in these 5 historic Delaware towns (2024)

Despite their small size, many towns in Delaware offer plenty of cultural activities and things to do in the summer. Dating back to the earliest encounters between indigenous inhabitants and European arrivals, the Diamond State's small towns are among the oldest settlements in America. The evolution of villages that later became the incorporated areas of The Ardens, Bellefonte, New Castle, Delaware City and Milford have left enduring legacies to be explored and enjoyed all summer long.

Whether it is community theater productions, lively festivals, colonial history or natural wonder, these towns invite visitors to immerse themselves in the timelessness of old and new.

Here is a sampling of Delaware destinations and what you can look forward to discovering:

The Ardens

Established in 1900, Arden was founded as an exercise of tax theory during the era's fascination with Utopian communities. Over the years, the community grew to include Ardentown in 1922 and Ardencroft in 1950. Today, the Ardens stand as the only example in the United States of a government operating on a single tax of communal land. The town has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In addition to village homes known for their distinctive and historic architectural style, the town's embrace of artists has made it a cultural center for arts, crafts and the performing arts.

The Robin Hood Theatre, now known as The Candlelight Theater, was once graced by acclaimed actors such as Barbara Bel Geddes, Jack Klugman and Anthony Perkins. The former barn hosts a variety of popular live performances including musicals, plays, concerts and other events. The annual Arden Fair, a highly anticipated arts and crafts event in the region, attracts crowds year after year. The village's Arden Craft Shop Museum showcases collections of art, craftwork and artifacts related to the community, accessible for all to admire.

Bellefonte

Perched atop a hill on the outskirts of Wilmington, Bellefonte embodies all the characteristics of a quaint small town. Established in 1915, Bellefonte is home to 1,526 residents occupying a snug .2 square miles. The housing stock is a blend of 20th-century styles, ranging from bungalows and Cape Cods to brick and vinyl houses with manageable yards. According to previous reporting, early residents intentionally aimed to limit commercial development. Today, the town boasts only one traffic light and limited shopping options. Nevertheless, visitors are drawn from near and far by the tranquil residential atmosphere, vintage stores and a thriving community arts scene.

Bellefonte's allure is mostly found on Brandywine Boulevard, the town's main drag and where it nurtures its artist community. Each year, the town hosts the Bellefonte Arts Festival to celebrate and support its local artists. The free annual event takes place on the third Saturday in May and features over 50 vendors, local retailers and live entertainment.

Year-round, the Shops of Bellefonte caters to art enthusiasts with art classes, art-related events and a chance to purchase unique finds from over 40 local artisans. Across the street, locals and tourists seeking a memorable meal experience find it at The Bellefonte Café. Established in the mid-1990s, the beloved eatery features a cozy bohemian interior and a whimsical outdoor patio. Recently acquired by new owners, the café now offers nightly live music performances, further enriching its already eclectic ambiance.

New Castle

Established in 1651, the city of New Castle stands as the oldest continuously inhabited town in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. Flanked by the Delaware River on one side and an industrial corridor on the other, the 3.5-square-mile city of 5,523 residents lies just 10 minutes south of Wilmington.

Dating back to colonial era conflict between the Netherlands, Sweden and England, only Williamsburg, Virginia, rivals the city in the number and authenticity of its pre-revolution structures. Steeped in American history, the city’s heritage can be explored in person or online, however, a trip to the city offers the opportunity to stroll its cobblestone streets, past restored homes and inside long-standing government buildings.

Managed by the Delaware Division of Historical & Cultural Affairs, admission to the New Castle Court House, a recognized National Historic Landmark, is free of charge. Originally built in 1732 on the site of a 1680s courthouse, it served as Delaware's first court and the first capital building. It now functions as a museum showcasing exhibits that delve into how early legal and governmental structures were applied in early American society. Complementing this wealth of history are three additional repositories of colonial artifacts — The Dutch House, The Amstel House and the Old Library — operated by the New Castle Historical Society, which may require an entry fee.

Beyond museum visits, the historic streets are lined with gift shops, spas and boutiques offering a different set of finds and experiences. Exploring the city’s diverse dining scene, visitors will find restaurants serving distinct cuisines such as Creole, Cajun or Italian. A venture inside a cozy pub founded in 1724 offers the chance to indulge the influences of American, English and Swedish fare.

For those interested in outdoor adventures, New Castle connects to Delaware's largest city by the scenic 5.5-mile Jack A. Markell Trail. Battery Park, located on the banks of the Delaware River, features a playground and several picnic tables, offering visitors more ways to enjoy the outdoors. The park is an active venue for many events throughout the year, such as a summer concert series, antique shows and Separation Day celebrations.

Delaware City

Delaware City is a scenic river town serving as a portal to numerous natural and historical treasures. From the breathtaking estuaries to feats of engineering, the 1.3-square-mile city is a favored destination for history buffs, bird watchers and outdoor sport enthusiasts.

The Historic District features over 200 structures showcasing architectural styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Delaware City also boasts a rich military history dating back to the late 1800s, when it hosted two military bases.

Fort Delaware, situated on Pea Patch Island in the middle of the Delaware River, was built in 1859. A Civil War detention camp, it held approximately 33,000 Confederate prisoners of war. Now a state park, visitors can enjoy artillery demonstrations, living history programs and ghost tours exploring paranormal activity. Only accessible by ferry, trips to the outpost are available seasonally.

The island is also home to the Pea Patch Heronry, one of the largest nest colonies for herons, egrets, and ibis in the eastern United States. Birds of prey such as osprey and bald eagles also can be spotted nesting on the island.

Fort DuPont, established in 1898 as part of the nation's coastal defense system, sits on a nearly 200-acre piece of land surrounded by water. During World War II, it functioned as a German prisoner-of-war camp before being transferred to the State of Delaware in 1947. In 1992, it was designated a state park before being annexed into Delaware City in 2016. Fort DuPont State Park offers year-round activities such as boating, fishing, hiking and picnicking.

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Milford

Located on the banks of the Mispillion River, Milford is another Delaware town rich in history and natural beauty. Established by Europeans in 1680, the city was formally incorporated in 1807. Over the years, Milford flourished as a vibrant shipbuilding hub, boasting six active shipyards in its downtown area until World War I. Transitioning into the 20th century, the town transformed into a commercial center for the agricultural community of southern Delaware. Today the city cherishes its heritage with three historic districts recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

The revitalized historic downtown has transformed into a lively center of community activity, boasting charming boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and a community theater. Vibrant public gatherings like the annual Holiday Stroll and music festivals add layers to the city's cultural options.

Discovering Milford's natural beauty is a truly rewarding experience. The Mispillion River Greenway offers a picturesque path through the historic downtown area. Stretching 1.8 miles on both sides of the Mispillion River, this greenway connects urban parks to historic landmarks and cultural attractions, providing a natural retreat in the heart of urban life. the DuPont Nature Center at the Mispillion Harbor Reserve serves as an educational hub, where visitors can explore the ecology and natural history of the Delaware Bay. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including over 130 species of birds, fish, and shellfish, Milford is a haven for nature lovers and environmentalists.

You cancontact reporter Anitra Johnson atajohnson@delawareonline.com.