Henlopen Acres DelawareATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Henlopen Acres, Delaware.
1. Cape Henlopen State Park
NATURE AND HISTORY COMBINED
Cape Henlopen State Park offers diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and extensive bike paths across its 5,000 acres. Visitors can explore the Seaside Nature Center and Fort Miles Historical Area while enjoying both ocean and bay views. The park features giant sand dunes, historical military structures from World War II, and beautiful beaches where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Gordon's Pond
SCENIC WILDLIFE TRAIL
Gordon's Pond is one of the top attractions within Cape Henlopen State Park offering a picturesque trail for hikers and cyclists. The area features stunning wetland views and opportunities for wildlife observation throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy the elevated boardwalk section that crosses environmentally sensitive areas while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Fort Miles Historical Area
WORLD WAR II DEFENSE
Fort Miles Historical Area preserves the military history of Cape Henlopen with bunkers, towers, and watchpoints that once defended the Delaware coast. During World War II, this strategic location was essential in protecting waterways against potential attacks. Today, visitors can explore these historical buildings for a unique glimpse into America's coastal defense system of the 1940s.
4. Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand serves as a cultural centerpiece for the community with free concerts and performances throughout the summer season. Located just steps from the beach and boardwalk, this open-air venue hosts a variety of musical acts and entertainment options. The historic bandstand has been a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors seeking evening entertainment after a day at the beach.
5. Clear Space Theatre Company
PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE ARTS
Clear Space Theatre Company offers professional theatrical productions in an intimate venue near the beaches. The company presents a year-round season of Broadway musicals, plays, and special performances featuring both professional actors and community talent. Their educational programs provide opportunities for aspiring performers of all ages to develop their skills in acting, singing, and dancing.
6. Dunes Lookout
PANORAMIC OCEAN VIEWS
The Dunes Lookout in Cape Henlopen State Park offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscape. From this elevated vantage point, one can observe the unique sand dune ecosystem that protects the coastline. The observation platform provides an excellent spot for photography, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the lighting creates dramatic scenery.
7. Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
COASTAL SHOPPING AND DINING
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk stretches along the Atlantic Ocean offering a quintessential beach town experience with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can stroll the mile-long promenade while sampling local treats like Thrasher's French fries, Dolle's salt water taffy, and Grotto Pizza. The family-friendly boardwalk provides arcade games, amusement rides, and regular events during the peak summer season.
8. Thompson Island Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Thompson Island Brewing Company offers visitors a taste of locally crafted beers in a spacious, modern brewery setting near Cape Henlopen. The brewery features a rotating selection of innovative beer styles paired with an elevated pub menu using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy brewery tours, tasting flights, and seasonal outdoor seating with views of the brewing facilities.
9. Lewes Historical Society Complex
COLONIAL MARITIME HERITAGE
The Lewes Historical Society Complex preserves and celebrates the rich maritime history of America's first town through its collection of historic buildings and artifacts. Visitors can explore multiple restored structures dating from the 1700s and 1800s that have been relocated to create an immersive historical village. The society offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events that highlight Lewes's role in Colonial and maritime history.
10. Junction & Breakwater Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Junction & Breakwater Trail connects Lewes and Rehoboth Beach along a scenic 6-mile former railroad corridor. This popular paved path takes cyclists and hikers through wooded areas, coastal marshlands, and alongside historic sites. The trail offers a car-free alternative for traveling between the two beach towns while enjoying Delaware's natural beauty.
11. Tanger Outlets
PREMIUM SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Tanger Outlets Rehoboth Beach features three separate shopping centers with over 130 brand-name and designer outlet stores. Shoppers can take advantage of Delaware's tax-free shopping while finding discounts on popular brands like Nike, Coach, and Michael Kors. The outlets are conveniently located near Cape Henlopen and provide a popular alternative activity during inclement weather or for those seeking a break from beach activities.
12. Rehoboth Art League
HISTORIC ARTS COMMUNITY
The Rehoboth Art League has been fostering artistic expression and appreciation in the coastal region since 1938. Set on a historic wooded campus, the league features multiple gallery spaces, studio facilities, and the historic Homestead house. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art, participate in classes and workshops, or shop for unique handcrafted pieces by local artists.
13. Cape May-Lewes Ferry
SCENIC BAY CROSSING
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides a scenic 85-minute journey across the Delaware Bay connecting two historic beach destinations. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, possible dolphin sightings, and food and beverage service during the crossing. The ferry accommodates both foot passengers and vehicles, making it a convenient way to travel between Delaware and New Jersey while adding a maritime adventure to the journey.
14. Dogfish Head Brewery
INNOVATIVE CRAFT BEER
Dogfish Head Brewery attracts beer enthusiasts from around the world to its production facility in Milton, just a short drive from Cape Henlopen. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the brewing process and the company's history of creating off-centered ales for off-centered people. The tasting room offers samples of limited-edition brews, while the adjacent Chesapeake & Maine restaurant serves seafood dishes designed to pair with their innovative beers.
15. Nassau Valley Vineyards
DELAWARE'S FIRST WINERY
Nassau Valley Vineyards holds the distinction of being Delaware's first and oldest winery, established in 1993. The picturesque vineyard offers self-guided tours through their winemaking facilities and museum exhibits about the history of wine. Visitors can sample award-winning wines in the tasting room and enjoy the grounds which frequently host art exhibitions, festivals, and special events throughout the year.