This post is all about what to do in Lewes Delaware.
You know those charming beach towns that are kinda-sorta hidden gems? Well, Lewes, Delaware is absolutely one of them. Growing up in New Jersey, we, of course, ventured to the Jersey shore for beach vacations. In adulthood I relocated into Pennsylvania and, as a result, have been exposed to the beaches of Delaware.
This quaint town is a lovely mix of restaurants, shopping, and beach life. During every visit we comment how it would be beautiful in any season, so while summer will, of course, give quintessential summer vibes, exploring Lewes year round is absolutely an option for your East Coast travel planning.
Read on to learn what to do in Lewes, Delaware!
What to do in Lewes Delaware Guide
The Station on Kings
I found The Station on Kings on Instagram before our trip and was reallll pumped. This café / market / home and garden store was much larger than I expected. It reminded me a little of the vibe of Terrain mixed with the vibe of Beach Plum Farm, though it’s definitely it’s own animal. It was an upscale marketplace boasting gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, fresh bread (and other goodies), mixed in with home decor items. With tall ceilings, it felt very open and airy. You can order food to go, or choose to eat in house.
There’s a greenhouse-like dine-in area, as well as outdoor seating. I was very excited to find charcuterie and brie there, as the grocery stores in the Lewes area are pretty mediocre.
Insider tip: they didn’t have wine on display in the market, but if you’re interested, you can purchase a bottle of what they serve at the restaurant. I had a lovely rosé that I believe was from Cotes de Provence.
Heritage Antiques
My husband was so sweet – he encouraged me during one of my daughter’s nap times (we returned to our AirBnB every few hours to accommodate naps because we say “no thank you” to an overtired baby) to head to the Heritage Antiques mall which we passed just down the road from where we stayed. So, I obliged. It did not disappoint! I spent way too much time in there and left with way too many things. Though, I was thrilled with my haul. I’ve been decorating with a lot of botanical prints (hello, grandmillenial vibes) and was so happy to hit the jackpot. If you go here, don’t forget to visit the porch — I missed this area, though that may have been for the best.
Lewes Delaware Canalfront Park
Whether or not you’re vacationing with kiddos, make it a point to stop by Lewes Canalfront Park. As the name suggests, it’s right on the water and there’s a great play area for the kiddos, including a boat they can hangout in. It’s beautifully landscaped and winds along the water, just outside of the shops in Lewes. It’s a wonderful spot to take a picnic, a refreshing drink, or ice cream.
Broadkill Beach
We love Broadkill Beach. My sister and her husband introduced us to Lewes and were kind enough to bring us along to Broadkill Beach. It’s a small, quiet beach — perfect for families or anyone who is really seeking more of a New England-like beach. There’s also a sweet little store called the Broadkill Store — we try to take a picture of the kids in front of the sign every year. If you’re looking for a more lively, festive beach vibe, head to Savannah Beach which is also great and not far outside of the Lewes downtown area.
What To Do In Lewes Delaware: Downtown
Lewes is a historic town — they call it “the first town in the first state”, so there are plenty of historic elements to enjoy. Along their main street there are several great shops and restaurants. Read on for a few I’ve selected for our what to do in Lewes Delaware guide!
Kings Homemade Ice Cream
Kings Homemade Ice Cream is a mainstay in the area — picture your traditional, quaint little ice cream shop. It’s a quintessential beach necessity, with one location in downtown Lewes (which is just a hop skip and a jump from Savannah Beach – a short drive, but quite a walk).
There are plenty of benches downtown so you can sit and enjoy your ice cream, but our favorite thing to do is head across the street and enter to the right of the cemetery you will find there. There’s a sweet garden and peaceful seating area near a fountain. Our kids could play a little (especially our littlest one who wants to take every opportunity to practice her new walking skills!) and we all could soak up the time together.
Nectar Cafe & Juice Bar
Nectar is an awesome cafe with delicious food. Both times I’ve eaten here I’ve had my food to-go, but am always envious of those who get to dine-in. The vibe is Anthropologie-esque, which, to me, is super fun in an eatery. If you like a little bit of whimsy with your breakfast food, Nectar is for you.
Bramble & Brine
Bramble & Brine restaurant is a new-to-me restaurant. It looked beautiful and I’m hopeful the food is just as good as the ambience. We weren’t able to eat there given our small children and hectic nap time schedules. If you check it out, let me know your thoughts!
Kids’ Ketch
Kids’ Ketch is a go-to for us each year we visit Lewes and it seems many other families do the same. It’s fun to let the kids pick something out during each annual visit and reflect upon our memories together. Also, doing a bit of adult perusing is always a little easier when the kids know they get to do their own perusing as well!
Biblion
I mentioned this in my Kingston blog, but every time my husband and I are able to get away, we look for an independent bookstore to explore (and we also try for independent toy stores as well). Biblion is filled with books and novelty merchandise. Many of the books have been pre-loved, which really just gives it a comfy vibe.
Edie Bee’s Confection Shop
Edie Bee’s is just beautiful. The walls are adorned with cheerful floral wallpaper, which really set the stage for all the colorful confections. If you are looking for special treats to bring as a host gift or to add to a charcuterie board, you will find some really special options. Of course, it goes without saying (even though I’m saying it) that kids (and adults alike!) will be mesmerized in this novelty sweet shop!
There are several other lovely restaurants and shops downtown to enjoy, including: Agave, Kindle, and Striper Bites.
That wraps it up for our guide about what to do in Lewes Delaware!
For more summer soaked goodness:
How to Host an Inspired Summer Book Club
11 Fun Things to Do In Kingston NY (& beyond)
Summer Entertaining Menu
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