I know that Delaware is called the First State and the Diamond State, but I think the marketers really missed the mark – it should be the Small Town State. Small towns in Delaware are the norm – after all, there are only 5 municipalities with over 10,000 people in the entire state. Check out some of our favorite small towns, where you can really get your fill of peace and quiet amongst some of the best scenery in Delaware. Ahh…
1. Bowers
Bowers is one of the nicest small towns in Delaware, where you can sit down by the water and watch the sun rise, stay there all day, and watch the sunset. If you're looking to get away but need the bay nearby, Bowers is a great small town in Delaware.
2. Felton
The Paradise Orchards in Felton are aptly named - this small town in Delaware is paradise if you like your solitude.
3. Odessa
Odessa is a major metropolitan area compared to most of the towns on this list, but I had to include it because I am so in love with this tiny town. Between the historic homes, the story of Cantwell's Bridge and the unbeatable Cantwell's Tavern, Odessa is an amazing place to get away from the world.
4. Frederica
Frederica! Home to the most delicious Pizza in the state... and about 700 people, who all must be pizza lovers or watermen. Though it is tiny, you really can't discount the food you'll find in Frederica. Which is nice, because there's really nothing else to do here but eat... just the way I like it 🙂
5. Dagsboro
Dagsboro is home to the Clayton Theater, and not much else. Spending time here will make you feel like you traveled back in time to a decade when life was simpler.
6. Millville
Millville is a typical rural Delaware town, and the slow way of living will captivate you and make you want to stay forever. This is a great town to forget your worries in.
7. Bethel
Bethel was once a booming shipbuilding town, and it held previous names like Lewis' Wharf and Lewisville before settling down on the name Bethel. This town was home to almost 400 residents in the early 1900s, but it's since tapered off and now just 170 people call Bethel home. If you want to feel like you're totally unplugged from the world, spend an afternoon here.
8. Magnolia
Magnolia is a little conceited - their town sign state that they really are the center of the universe - but I just see that as small town charm. Feel like you're one of the family here in this town of just under 250 people.
9. Little Creek
Little Creek's circular school house is a reminder of days gone by - and so is most of the town. Stroll through this quiet fishing town and check out the wildife preserve on the outskirts for a real treat.
10. Frankford
Frankford might be one of the most photographic towns in Delaware, because it is a great cross of rural and antique industrial, thanks to the railroad that runs through. Truly understand peace and quiet spending an afternoon strolling through Frankford.
11. Blades
Blades is a town of about 1000 people in Sussex county, on the gorgeous Nanticoke river. If you're looking for a place to enjoy the water without the crowds, come down to Blades and drop in with your watercraft to truly be alone and one with the water.
12. Ellendale
Ellendale is a very typical southern Delaware town - and that's why I love it. When the most popular restaurant (Southern Grill - SO GOOD) advertising itself as "Horse Friendly", you know you're in the country. That's what makes Delaware so great, you can go from bustling Dover in half an hour.
13. Greenwood
Greenwood is another picturesque small Delaware town, and the Richards Historic District preserves colonial-era farm buildings, so you can really get a feel for the town's history and culture. Visit Poplar Level Farm, Locust Grove Farm, and Middle Space Farm for a full Greenwood experience, or just stroll around with nothing on your agenda. You'll fit in perfectly.
13. Houston
Houston is such a small town in Delaware that the official website doesn't even have a picture of the town! If you really just want some peace and quiet, head down to this sleepy town of 370 people.
Don’t worry, Delaware’s small towns aren’t completely barren – check out our collection of the best food in Small Town Delaware – you won’t be disappointed!
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