Delaware is a seriously underrated state. While most of America laughs at their lame “dela-where?” jokes, we can sit here and take pride in the fact that without the First State, the country could be in pretty bad shape. During World War II, Cape Henlopen was an incredibly important part of America’s homeland defense strategy, and Fort Miles helped protect the ports of Philadelphia and Wilmington. Today, you can visit this preserved World War II Fort in one of our favorite state parks.

Fort Miles Historic Area is located within Delaware's gorgeous Cape Henlopen State Park.
Flickr / Jeffrey
The trails throughout this abandoned World War II Fort are decorated with fascinating relics - like this large caliber defensive gun.
Flickr / Lee Cannon
The Battery Herring is in incredible shape, considering it was built 77 years ago.
Flickr / Steve Snodgrass
The sheer power of these weapons and strength of these bunkers is hard to fathom. Over the years, thousands of soldiers were stationed here, tasked with defending their homeland.
Flickr / Jeffrey

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Guided tours of the bunkers take you into areas that were once the most closely guarded military secrets on the East Coast.
Flickr / Lee Cannon
The most interesting part of the park, by far, is the Fire Control watchtower.
Flickr / Jeffrey
If you're afraid of heights, don't look down! The spiral staircase is a little intimidating.
Flickr / Jukie Bot
Make your way to the top and imagine what it must have been like to be stationed here at Fort Miles during one of the most tumultuous eras in modern history.
Flickr / Lee Cannon
From the top, you'll have a sweeping view of Fort Miles and of the ocean, off the coast of our own Cape Henlopen. It's amazing!
Flickr / Jeffrey

You can visit Fort Miles Historic Area at Cape Henlopen State Park from 8 a.m. to sunset, year round. The address for the park is 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE 19958, and the Fort is just a short walk from the parking area, along the marked bike trail.

For tour reservations and to learn more about visiting Fort Miles, click here. Be sure to make time to see this historic World War II fort in Delaware next time you’re at the beach!

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