Delaware’s history is hard to beat – after all, you don’t get the nickname “First State” without good reason like a great amount of Delaware historic towns! Learn all about the history of the First State when you plan a trip to visit all of these beautiful historic towns in Delaware. When it comes to East Coast historic towns, it’s hard to beat this beautiful state.

1. Odessa
Odessa, DE, USA
Flickr / Lee Cannon
The entirety of Odessa's downtown area is on the National Register of Historic Places. When you stop by, you can wander past historic homes or dine in Cantwell's Tavern. The Tavern's building dates back to the 1800s!

Check out some of the historic homes in Delaware:

2. Yorklyn
Yorklyn, Kennett Township, DE, USA
Flickr / Frank Rocap
Yorklyn was once an industrial town, and you can still visit the mill sites. Be sure to make time to see Auburn Valley State Park, Delaware's newest state park, and the estate preserved there.
3. New Castle
New Castle, DE 19720, USA
Flickr / Mandy Jansen
New Castle is one of the oldest towns on the East Coast! Walk around downtown to find the Court House Museum and dine at Jessop's Tavern, a colonial-themed restaurant.

Learn about the history of New Castle:

Related Stories

One Of The Few Remaining Futuro Houses In The U.S. Is Right Here In Delaware

One Of The Few Remaining Futuro Houses In The U.S. Is Right Here In Delaware

 14 Things You Can't Do in Delaware Anymore But Wish You Could

14 Things You Can't Do in Delaware Anymore But Wish You Could

 1

Zwaanendael Museum Is One Of The Strangest Places You Can Go In Delaware
4. Delaware City
Delaware City, DE, USA
Facebook / Delaware City Hotel
Delaware City is home to a charming and historic downtown area, and you can take the ferry from near the Delaware City Hotel over to Fort Delaware! Both the city and fort are rumored to be haunted.
5. Dover
Dover, DE, USA
Flickr / Jeffrey
Dover's sprawling center Green is surrounded by historic buildings. Our capital was an important city during the American Revolution, so be sure to check out all of the historic markers and you may learn something new!

Get some aerial views of historic Dover:

6. Hockessin
Hockessin, DE, USA
Joe Davis (Chilly)/Google
Visit the Mt. Cuba Center or take a ride along the Wilmington and Western Railroad to see the historic beauty of Hockessin up close.
7. Lewes
Lewes, DE 19958, USA
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
No list of historic towns in Delaware would be complete without a mention of Lewes! The First Town in the First State has a history that's hard to believe. Stop in to the Zwaanendael Museum and visit the nearby Lewes Historical Society to learn more.

What are your favorite places to visit when you want to learn about historic towns in Delaware? Tell us in the comments! To explore more of what this state has to offer, gather the family in the car and check out these wonderful day trips in Delaware.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Wonderful Places To Visit In Delaware

Will Suphan | November 30, 2023

What are the most charming small towns in Delaware?

The most charming small towns in Delaware include:

  • Selbyville: The charming and historic architecture in this little town makes for a worthwhile visit and it is where you’ll find Doyle’s Diner, Delaware’s oldest diner.
  • Odessa: This is a historic town with many old-fashioned homes and buildings as well as the wonderful Cantwell’s Tavern.
  • Rehoboth Beach: While there are under 1,500 residents here, visitors come from all over Delaware and other nearby states to take in its loveliness.
  • Seaford: This tiny town of about 7,000 people feels like a tight-knit community and the downtown area has been continually improved.

Learn more about the most charming small towns in Delaware. 

What are the most unforgettable day trips in Delaware?

The most unforgettable day trips in Delaware include:

  • Winterthur: Come visit the March Bank during the springtime to see the cherry blossoms blooming with beautiful colors.
  • Mt. Cuba Center: The gardens here are abundant with native plants and a wide collection of vibrant wildflowers.
  • St. Anthony’s Italian Festival: Come to Wilmington in June to attend this fun festival with scrumptious Italian food, fun rides, carnival games, and much more.
  • Fifer’s Orchard: This is where to go in autumn to pick apples, drink delicious cider, and enjoy delectable apple cider donuts.

Discover more about the most unforgettable day trips in Delaware. 

What are the best little-known attractions in Delaware?

The best little-known attractions in Delaware include:

  • The Well: You’ll find this place in Hockessin, and it isn’t hugely famous, but locals come here for the wonderful food, shops, and marketplace.
  • Wilson’s General Store: This family-owned, old-timey general store is rumored to have the best breakfast sandwich in the state.
  • C.R. Hummingbird to Mars: Welcome to a speakeasy where you must find the secret code from its social media accounts and dress in style to attend.
  • Bowers Bewach Maritime Museum: Come here to learn about the history of pirates and shipwrecks at this fun and educational Delaware museum.

 Find out more about the best little-known attractions in Delaware. 

Related Articles

Explore Delaware