< PreviousNATURE • FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES • KIDS’ TENT EDUCATION • CRAFTS ENTERTAINMENT • VENDORS LIVE MUSIC • FOOD TRUCKS THE ENVIRONMENT • PRIZES WILDLIFE • HISTORY KAYAK & SPB RENTALS FREE admission! Save the Date!Save the Date! Saturday, May 25Saturday, May 25 thth 2024 2024 Downtown MiltonDowntown Milton Delaware’s Award Winning August 24August 24 thth The Annual Celebration on the Broadkill with 3 events in one! • Irish Eyes Kayak and Canoe Race • Bargains on the Broadkill with juried vendors and artisans. • The Great Duck Race CHECK ONLINE FOR EVENTS SCHEDULE HISTORICMILTON.COMHISTORICMILTON.COM SAVE THE SAVE THE DATEDATE May & June Events from page 17 See JUNE EVENTS - page 20 nybeach.com. May 25 - “A Sailors Life For Me” at the Zwaanendael Museum. Learn about the adventure, excitement and hard- ships experienced byseafarers. Activities and programs available all day from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Zwaanendael Museum, 102 King Hwy., Lewes. Call 302- 645-1148 or visit www.History.delaware.gov May 25 - Annual Milton Horseshoe Crab & Shorebird Festival. Celebrating nature in Milton. This festival cel- ebrates horseshoe crabs and migrating shorebirds, long considered by many to be a natural wonder of the Delaware Bay. Activities, live music, food trucks, crafts, kids’ tent, kayak rentasls & more! For info call 302-684-1101, or visit www.historicmilton.com. May 25 - Annual Artisans Fair at Lord Baltimore Elementary, Rt. 26, Ocean View. The Artisan’s Fair has fea- tured unique handcrafted art objects including textiles, fine art, glass, jewelry, photography, sculpture, woodworking, and metalwork. For info on this year’s event call 302-732- 6336 or visit www.southcoastalaarp.org/. May 26 & 27- 12th Annual Bowers Beach Buccaneer Bash. Pirates invading Bowers Beach Delaware for a week- end of fun and games, plundering and pillaging, pirating and buccaneering. This family friendly event will include demonstrations, pirate battles, cannon and musket firing, sword fighting, pirate costume contests for children and adults, skits, period and craft vendors, great food, story- telling, live period music and boat rides on Sunday. Daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For info call 302-222-6341 or visit bowersbeach.delaware.gov/museum/ or their FB page. Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day - Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Concerts, Rehoboth Ave. & Boardwalk, Fri.-Sun at 8 p.m., 302-644-2288, Visit www.rehobothbandstand. com/ for this year’s schedule. May 27 -Lewes American Legion Post 17 Memorial Day Parade in Lewes. 11 a.m., Call 302-236-9828. May 27 - VFW Post 7234 has conducted the annual Bethany Beach Memorial Day service on the Bethany band- stand at 11 a.m. followed by an open house from noon to 2 p.m. at the Post. Call 302- 539-9981 for info. May 27 - VFW Post 7447 has conducted the annual Rehoboth Beach Memorial Day service at Post 7447. Call 302-227-3469 for info on this year’s event. May 31 – June 1 - Friends of Lewes Public Library Beach Reads Fiction Book Sale. May 31st 3 - 5 p.m. and June 1st 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.at the Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. Call 645- 2733 or visit www.lewes.lib.de.us. June - Aug. & Sept. – Monday Movies on the Beach in Bethany Beach. Movies on Monday evenings on the beach, June thru Aug. and on the bandstand Fri. In Sept. For more info about this year’s events contact the Town of Bethany Beach at 302-539-8011 or visit www.townofbetha- nybeach.com. Tuesdays in June, July & August - Concerts in Lewes’ Stango Park, Lewes, at 7 p.m. For information, call the Lewes Chamber of Commerce, 302-645-8073 or visit www. ci.lewes.de.us. June - Annual Delmar Day in the Park Festival. A fun- Page 18 2024 S. DE Spring & Summer Vacation Planner2024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation PlannerPage 19 Page 202024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation Planner See JUNE EVENTS - Page 21 destateparks.com/Reservations/Cottages rustic waterfrontrustic waterfront June Events from page 18 filled day for the entire family at State Street Park in Delmar. For info call 302-846-3336. June - Aug., Sept. & Oct. - Bethany Beach Bandstand Concert Series. Not just a summer series anymore. Thursdays in June – Aug., Sat. and Sun. in Sept. and Oct. For more info about this year’s events contact the Town of Bethany Beach at 302-539-8011 or visit www.townofbethanybeach.com. June 1 – Annual Bethany Beach Seaside Craft Show. The show is presented by the Bethany Beach Cultural & Historical Affairs Committee in Downtown Bethany Beach from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A juried fine craft show featuring 100+ vendors in downtown Bethany. For updates contact the Town of Bethany Beach at 302-539-8011 or visit www. townofbethanybeach.com. June 1 – Farm to Table Dinner Fundraiser. The Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village, 5 -7:30 p.m., 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover. Call 302-734-1618 or visit www.agri- culturalmuseum.org. June 1 – 2024 Rehoboth Beach Main Street Margarita Crawl. Participating Restaurants from 1-4 p.m. Call 302- 227-2772 or visit www.downtownrb.com. June 1 – 30 - Loopin’ for the Library 2024. A self-paced bike ride to support the Lewes Public Library. Between June 1–30 ride a total of 20 miles. 302-645-2733 or Lewes.lib. de.us June 1 - National Trails Day cleanup at Cape Henlopen State Park from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. for trail clean up. Meet at the Hawk Watch Pavilion at Cape Henlopen State Park. Volunteers welcome and lunch provided. For more info call 302-858-6127 or visit FriendsOfCapeHenlopen.org. June 2 - 7 – Rehoboth Beach & Dewey Beach Restaurant Week. For info about this year’s participants call 302-227- 6446 or visit www.beach-fun.com June 7, 21 – Town of Ocean View Concerts in the Park, 7 p.m. at John West Park, Ocean View. For info call 302- 539-9797 or visit www.oceanviewde.gov/EventsinthePark. June 7-9 - 1st Grundy Insurance Mid-Atlantic Nationals. It’s time this seasonfor the first ever Mid-Atlantic Nationals at Dover Speedway. For info call 800-441-RACE or visit www.doverspeedway.com June 8 - “Pirate Flags” Craft & Program. This is a part of the Zwaanendael Museum Pirate Passport activ- ity. Learnabout famous pirate flags and make your own. For children of all ages. 2p.m. on the second floor of theZwaanendael Museum,102 Kings Hwy. Lewes. Call 302-645-1148 or visit www.history.delaware.gov. June 9 – Summer Fun Scavenger Hunt at Antique Alley of Bridgeville. Visit antiquealleyde.com or call 302-337-3137. June 12 – Town of Millville The Funsters Concert. Free concert at Millville’s Evans Park. Visit millville.delaware. gov/evans-park/ or call 302-616-1935. June 14 – 16 - Rehoboth Beach PRIDE Film Festival. The Society and its festival partner, CAMP Rehoboth are pleased to program a diverse range of documentaries, features and a series of shorts that celebrate cinema and National PRIDE month. Visit www.rehobothfilm.com. June 15 – Town of Ocean View 135th Anniversary Celebration. Featuring market vendors, kids’ crafts, live music, food vendors and more at John West Park, Ocean 2024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation PlannerPage 21 See JULY EVENTS - Page 22 Food & Craft Vendors Food & Craft Vendors H H Live DJLive DJ Saturday, June 29Saturday, June 29 thth Millsboro Little League Fields Millsboro Little League Fields 6-9:30 pm 6-9:30 pm Fireworks Display at Dusk Fireworks Display at Dusk by Brothers Pyroby Brothers Pyro For more info visit www.millsborochamber.com or visit the Millsboro Chamber Facebook page Rain Date June 29, 2024Rain Date June 29, 2024 For more information and sponsorship opportunities, call us at 302-934-6777 June Events from page 20 View from 1-5:30 p.m. For info call 302-539-9797 or visit www.oceanviewde.gov/EventsinthePark. June 15 – 67th annual Selbyville Old Timer’s Day Car & Truck ShoJune 15 – 67th annual Selbyville Old Timer’s Day Car & Truck Show. Over 100 vehicles from 1993 and ear- lier will fill uptown Church Street in Selbyville from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Enjoy music, an outdoor beer garden, local artisans, delicious food and drinks, and fun. 302-436-8314, 302-539-2100 or visit oldtimersdayde.com. June 15 - 2024 Lewes Garden Tour - The Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau hosts the 33rd annual Lewes Garden Tour featuring delightfully unique and pri- vate gardens that can only be fully appreciated by stepping inside the gates that enclose them. In addition to touring the gardens, the event includes a Garden Market where more than 40 vendors are located, selling garden related items during the hours of the tour (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.) For more info call 302-645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber. com. June 15 - Cape Artists of Lewes Gallery-Garden Themed Artwork and painting demos. 110 W. Third St., Lewes. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Light refreshments 302-644-7733 CapeArtists. org June 18 – 4th Annual S. Coastal Golf Classic at Bayside Resort Golf Club. Visit BeebeHealthcare.org/Beebe- Medical-Foundation June 22 – 7th annual Jack O’Hollaren Annual Wheels for Meals Bike Ride. Ride through scenic Delaware in support of Meals on Wheels Lewes-Rehoboth and our homebound seniors in Sussex County. All proceeds go to providing daily meals to our seniors. Hudson Fields, Eagle Crest Road, Milton. Visit www.bikereg.com/mowlr June 24 – Town of Millville Music Bingo. Millville’s Evans Park. Visit millville.delaware.gov/evans-park/ or call 302-616-1935. June 28 – Haunted Histories-Paranormal Investigations. Haunted Histories echo through time and Lewes is full of these eerie accounts. Lewes Historical Society and First State Paranormal Investigations invite you to hear the true tales of long-ago residents. 8-10 p.m Visit www.histori- clewes.org. June 29 – 6th Annual Millsboro Stars & Stripes Event - The Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce sponsors the annual Millsboro Independence Day event. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. Come out for an evening of good food, music, and family fun capped off with Fireworks at Dusk by Brothers Pyro at the Millsboro Little League Fields. Bring your blanket or lawn chair. Call 302-934-6777 or visit www.millsborochamber.com. June 29 – Dewey Beach Kids’ Running of the Bull. Visit www.deweybusinesspartnership.com or call 302-228-3701. June 30- 5th annual Beebe Heroes 5K run/walk at Irish Eyes, Lewes benefiting Beebe Healthcare. Visit BeebeHealthcare.org/Beebe-Medical-Foundation or call 302-644-2900 for info. July – 32nd annual Beach and Bay Cottage Tour. The Friends of the South Coastal Library sponsors the annual house tour in the Bethany Beach/Fenwick Island area. Call 302-537-5828 or visit www.foscl.com for details.Page 222024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation Planner See JULY & AUGUST EVENTS - Page 23 Affordable Modular Homes • www.tidalhomes.net TIDAL HOMES LLC Finished on your lot. Licensed & InsuredUSDA approved builder Dagsboro, DE • 302-858-6688 Design your own floor plan. No Land? Realtor on staff to help you find a building lot. Now Offering 100% Zero Down FInancing, up to $350K!! Let us show you how to use your land as a down payment. Cent. Air & Heat! • Dormers & fr. porch incl. • Appliance allow. • 5 course conditioned crawl space • Unfinished Upstairs Tidal Homes uses only licensed and insured subcontractors. Many Plans to Choose From! July Events from page 21 July – Lewes Historical Society’s Summer Craft Show - The Fair is well known for the exceptional quality of the craftspeople who exhibit each year. The Lewes Historical Society Complex, 110 Shipcarpenter Street in Lewes. Call 302-645-7670 or visit www.HistoricLewes.org . July 4- Annual Bethany Beach Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks Independence Day Celebration. The parade will march down Pennsylvania and Atlantic avenues in the resort town at noon. A concert on the bandstand begins at 7:30, followed by fireworks at dusk. Call 302-539-8011 or visit www.townofbethanybeach.com. July 4 – Lewes Old Fashioned 4th of July. The City of Lewes continues its long tradition of hosting old-fashioned games for children on Second Street beginning at 9 a.m. Following the games, the Lewes Fourth of July Boat Parade will wind its way down the Lewes – Rehoboth canal to Fisherman’s Wharf as part of the City of Lewes’ 4th of July holiday festivities. The parade entrants will leave from Roosevelt Inlet across from the Coast Guard Station at 1:30 p.m. and reach the judges’ reviewing stand at Fisherman’s Wharf at approximately 2:00 p.m. The annual Doo-Dah Parade starts around 5 p.m. on Manilla Drive and then turns onto Kings Highway. The annual Lewes Fireworks display will fill the skies at 9 p.m. Call 302-645-8073 , visit www. leweschamber.com or visit gofourthlewes.org for info. July 4 – Laurel Independence Day Celebration. The day has traditionally begun with a Prayer Breakfast at 8 a.m. The evening festivities follow at 5 p.m. including food vendors and craft vendors set up in town, a Little Miss Independence Pageant, Corn Hole contest, bands performing during the evening, and the day ending with fireworks. Call 302-875- 2277 or visit www.townoflaurel.net or on facebook.. July 4 -Milton’s Bring Mayberry Back Hometown July 4th Event. There has been lots of activities for kids of all ages in past year’s Milton 4th of July events! For info on this year’s event email mare@irisheyespub.com or call 302-684-5005, 302-684-1101 or visit historicmilton.com. July 6- Rehoboth Beach Fireworks 2024. Celebrate Independence Day in Rehoboth Beach with a spectacular fireworks display at approximately 9:30 p.m. The fire- works are launched from the beach south of Rehoboth Avenue and visible up and down the boardwalk and beach. Entertainment at the bandstand begins at 8 pm. Please be in town early. Depending on the weather, the fireworks may be launched any time after 8 p.m. For more info visit www. cityofrehoboth.com/events or call 302-227-6181. July 6 –St. Peter’s 58th annual Sidewalk Art & Artisan Show. The show, sponsored by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Lewes, will once again be held on Second Street in downtown Lewes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch will be served as grab and go from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and there will be entertainment. Admission is free. For details, call 302- 645-8479 or visit stpeterslewes.org. July 6 - Cape Artists of Lewes Gallery Open House. 110 W. Third St., Lewes. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Light refreshments 302-644-7733 CapeArtists.org. July 9 & 10 – 74th Rehoboth Art League Cottage Tour of Rehoboth Beach. 10 a.m-3 pm. Tour beautiful homes in the Rehoboth Beach area from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Visit www. 2024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation PlannerPage 23 July & August Events from page 22 Rehobothartleague.org or call 302-227-8408. July 10 – Town of Millville On the Edge Concert. Free concert at Millville’s Evans Park. Visit /millville.delaware. gov/evans-park/ or call 302-616-1935. July 12, 26 – Town of Ocean View Classic Movie Nights. 7:30 p.m, John West Park, Ocean View from 1-4 p.m. For info call 302-539-9797 or visit www.oceanviewde.gov/ EventsinthePark. July 12-13 - Seaford Tomorrow’s Friday Night Live & Nanticoke Float-in. Friday Night Live will be held the Friday night before the annual float-in on the Nanticoke River and will feature music, food, drinks & more down- town. The City of Seaford will sponsor the annual Float-In on July 13th in which water lovers enjoy a 45-minute float down the river on inner tubes. or details about this year’s event, call the city of Seaford, 302-629-9173, or visit www. nanticokeriverfest.com or www.seafordde.com. July 13 – Family Day. Free family event at The Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village, noon-4 p.m., 866 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover. Call 302-734-1618 or visit www.agri- culturalmuseum.org. July 13 - “Historic Hats” Craft & Program. This is part of the Zwaanendael Museum Pirate Passport activity. Learn about historic sailor caps and make your own. For children of all ages. 2 p.m. on the second floor of the Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Hwy., Lewes. Call 302-645-1148 or www.History.delaware.gov. July 16 – Dewey Beach Canoe Races at the Lighthouse, Dewey Beach. For more info visit www.deweybusinesspart- nership.com or call 302-228-3701. July 18 - July 27 – 105th annual Delaware State Fair. A Delaware tradition for over 100 years, the fair takes place at the Delaware State Fairgrounds, US 13, Harrington. All the traditional excitement of the fair - competitions, entertain- ment, concerts, food and rides. Call 302-398-3269 or visit www.Delawarestatefair.com. July 18 - 30th Annual Milford Chamber of Commerce Golf Classic. Southern Delaware Golf Course, Milford. Shotgun start at 1 p.m. Call 302- 422-3344 or visit www.milford- chamber.com. July 20 - “Mermaids, Mermen, Ningyo and More” at the Zwaanendael Museum. Mythology with an in-depth look at the Zwaanendael’s own merman’s origins, composition and stories 2 p.m. at the Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Hwy., Lewes.Call 302-645-1148 or visit www.History.dela- ware.gov. July 22 – Town of Millville Music Bingo. Millville’s Evans Park. Visit millville.delaware.gov/evans-park/ or call 302- 616-1935. July 25 – Sept. 22 – Circle of Truth Exhibition at the Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St., Dover. Call 302- 674-2111 or visit www.biggsmuseum.org. Aug. 3 - 14th Annual Car-Truck-Bike Show at 10 a.m. -2 p.m., CHEER Community Center, 20520 Sand Hill Rd, Georgetown. For details on this year’s event call 302-854- 9500 or visit cheerde.com Aug. 3 - Teen Craft Fair at the Lewes Public Library. Local teen vendors will be selling their one-of-a-kind arts & crafts. Community members can enjoy vendors, food trucks, face painting, crafts for kids, bake sale, and silent auction at this annual craft fair from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visit www. lewes.lib.de.us or call 302-645-2733 for more info. Aug. 3-4 & 10-11– 51st Annual Outdoor Fine Art & Craft Show at the Rehoboth Art League featuring more than 100 artists and artisans at the Art League’s campus. For info visit www.rehobothartleague.org or call 302-227-8408. Aug. 4, 18 – Red Caboose Tour. The Lewes Junction Railroad and Bridge Association is pleased to announce that the Red Caboose, PRR 477123, is open for tours on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., weather permitting from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit lewesjunctionrr.org. Aug. 6 – Restaurant Olympics, Dewey Beach. Visit www.deweybusinesspartnership.com or call 302-228-3701. Aug. 10 - “Float Your Boat” at the Zwaanendael Museum. Part of the Zwaanendael Museum Pirate Passport activity. Learn how boats float, and make your own. For children of all ages. 2 p.m. on the second floor of the Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Hwy., Lewes. Call 302-645-1148 or visit www.History.delaware.gov. Aug. 16-31 –Antique Alley of Bridgeville Red Tag Sale. Visit antiquealleyde.com or call 302-337-3137. Aug. 19 – Town of Millville Music Bingo. Millville’s Evans Park. Visit millville.delaware.gov/evans-park/ or call 302-616-1935. Aug. 24 – Milton Annual Bargains on the Broadkill & Annual Broadkill River Canoe & Kayak Race. The Annual Bargains on the Broadkill features juried vendors and arti- sans, crafts, jewelry, goodies and food. The Great Duck Race Raffle is also held with many cash prizes. Come out and support the chamber and the vendors from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Annual Broadkill River Canoe & Kayak race will be held during the morning hours. Call 302-684-1101, or visit www.historicmilton.com. For Race info email mare@ irisheyespub.com or call 302-684-5005. Aug. 24 - Children’s Beach House Annual Beach BBQ. With a new theme every year, the Beach BBQ is an exciting event with entertainment, cocktails, beer and wine, dinner and a few surprises, at Children’s Beach House’s spectacular location overlooking Lewes Bay. Visit www.cbhinc.org or call 302-645-9184 For updates visit SouthernDelawareExplorer.com monthly or pick up a copy of the Southern Delaware Explorer Magazine. Send your email to delawareexplorer@gmail.com to receive monthly updates when the newest issues have been posted online. Like or Follow Us on Facebook facebook.com/SouthernDelaware ExplorerMagazine Featuring daily posts from area shops, golf courses, event updates and area photographers.See GEORGETOWN & LEWES ATTRACTIONS - page 25 Page 242024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation Planner Southern Delaware Attractions We suggest visiting the listed websites or calling to verify their current operating conditions before visiting. BETHANY BEACH AND FENWICK ISLAND AREA: Bethany Beach Boardwalk and Bandstand: Stroll along the relaxing boardwalk and take in the Atlantic breezes. The Bandstand offers dozens of free concerts and other entertain- ment throughout the summer and fall. Bethany Beach is also the site of the annual Craft Show in June and the Boardwalk Arts Festival in September. Visit http://www.townofbetha- nybeach.com/98/Bandstand or call 302-539-8011. Bethany Beach Dinker-Irvin Museum: Located across from Central Park at 318 Garfield Parkway, this beautifully restored cottage offers visitors an immersive experience of an historically significant early 1900’s home and a glimpse of what life was like during the early days of the town. It is one of the few remaining original cottages in Bethany Beach and the oldest public building in town. It served as a U.S. Post Office from 1922-25. Visit www.townofbethanybeach. com or 302-539-8725. Bethany Beach History Museum: The museum hosts a collection of photography and local archaeological arti- facts representing the history of Bethany Beach from 1901 through today. Located in the Bethany Beach Town Hall on Garfield Parkway and Route One. www.townofbethany- beach.com or 302-539-8011. Bethany-Fenwick Chamber of Commerce Information Center: Located conveniently on Route 1, Coastal Highway, between Fenwick Island and the Delaware State Park. This beautifully appointed building is staffed by information specialists to answer questions about the area. Open daily and extended openings seasonally. (302) 539-2100, ext. 110, (800) 962-SURF (7873), www.thequietresorts.com. Chief Little Owl: This twenty-six foot totem pole is named in honor of a chief of the Delaware’s native Nanticoke Indians. Chief Little Owl is a welcoming sight at the intersection of Route One and Garfield Parkway in Bethany Beach. DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum: This fascinating muse- um contains maritime artifacts from local shipwrecks, as well as a large collection of sea life and shells from around the world. See jewelry and hundreds of coins, silver and gold bars, porcelain and pottery recovered from wrecks. Other exhibits include weapons found along the Delmarva Peninsula, a lighthouse display and hundreds of shells and collectibles. Located on Route One and Bayard Street, Fenwick Island (second floor of Sea Shell City). Admission is free, but donations are welcome. For hours, call 302- 539- 9366 or visit www.discoversea.com. Fenwick Island Lighthouse: This 87-foot tall light was authorized by the U.S. Government Lighthouse Board in 1858 as a navigational point for sailors, who could see the light from fifteen miles at sea. Its brick walls are 27 inches thick. The site open during the summer includes early pho- tos of Fenwick Island, artifacts and a souvenir shop. Located just off Rt. 54, Fenwick Island. Free admission. 302-539- 4115, Visit fenwickislandlighthouse.org for hours. Fenwick Island State Park: Fenwick Island State Park invites visitors to its peaceful ocean and bay shorelines. Swimming and sunbathing are popular activities on the ocean side of the park. The white sand beaches gradually slope into the Atlantic, creating a broad swimming area patrolled by lifeguards during the summer. The park fea- tures a modern bathhouse, which offers convenient showers and changing rooms, a satellite park office, and a snack food concession. During the summer months, beach umbrellas and chairs may be rented on the beach. Mobi-Mat equip- ment, consisting of three 30-foot mats allowing those in wheelchairs and power chairs to access the beach from the boardwalk, is available here. Open daily 8 a.m. to sunset. Entrance fee March 1st through November 30th. 302-539- 1055 or 302-227-2800, www.destateparks.com/Beaches/ FenwickIsland Fishing Facilities, Bethany-Fenwick: Marinas are avail- able with head boats and charter boats for full-day and half-day fishing trips. Call the Bayville Marina, 302-436- 5904; Beaston’s Marina, 302-539-3452, or Indian River Marina, 302-227-3071, www.destateparks.com/MarinaLife/ IndianRiverMarina Holts Landing State Park: Located on the southern shore of Indian River Bay, the park offers family fun, picnicking, a pavilion, playground, boat ramp, nature trail, fishing and clamming. The park’s location on the shoreline affords a great view of the bay. During the summer season, bring the family to enjoy Family Fun Nights and bayside concerts sponsored by the Friends of Holts Landing State Park. Off Route 26 near Millville. Open daily 8 a.m. to sunset. Entrance fee March 1st through November 30th, annual vehicle permits available. 302-227-2800, destateparks.com/ holtslanding Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboard Adventures: Explore beaches, bays and waterways from a different vantage point. Try kayaking! To arrange a professionally guided tour, contact Coastal Kayak, 302-539-7999, www. coastalkayak.com/ or Delaware State Parks at 302-227- 2800 or 302-539-1055, www.destateparks.com/Beaches/ FenwickIsland Viking Golf Theme Park and Thunder Lagoon: Explore replicas of ancient Scandinavian landmarks while you enjoy the 18-hole miniature golf course. Take the ‘fast track’ in go-karts; make a splash in the 400 foot lazy river, 800 square foot kiddie pool, 2,800 square feet activity pool featuring the Black Hole Slide, Kiddie Sea Shell Slide and one of a kind Tipping Viking Ship. Enjoy meals on the Fenwick Boardwalk. Group discounts and birthday celebra- tions. Located on the corner of Rt. 54 and Coastal Highway, Fenwick. 302-539-1644 or 302-539-4027 or www.fenwick- fun.com. DAGSBORO AREA: Clayton Theatre: Like the old movie houses of yesteryear, Delaware’s only single screen theatre still in operation, the Clayton Theatre offers today’s movie goers a rare opportunity to see first run movies in a charming hometown atmosphere. Main Street. www.the- claytontheatre.com 302-732-9606. Delaware Botanic Gardens: The Delaware Botanic Gardens (DBG) is a hidden gem along the shoreline of Pepper Creek near Dagsboro, DE, located about 35 minutes from the beaches in Southern Delaware. DBG was awarded “Best Attraction” in 2022 by Southern Delaware Tourism. There are five main gardens on a 37-acre site, celebrat- ing the beauty and natural ecosystems of the Delmarva Peninsula.The Meadow Garden is the jewel in the DBG 2024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation PlannerPage 25 See LEWES ATTRACTIONS - page 26 Georgetown, Laurel & Lewes Attractions - from page 24 Crown designed by world-famous Dutch plantsman Piet Oudolf, featuring over 70,000 perennial plants - 85% are native plants. In spring, there are over 200,000 spring bulbs in bloom throughout the gardens. There are wide ADA compatible walking trails, and 12-acre woodlands. Visit delawaregardens.org for details. Open to the public from mid-March to mid-November. Prince George’s Chapel: This restored mid-18th cen- tury Anglican Church is now maintained as a museum by the Friends of Prince George’s Chapel, Inc. It is open for visitation on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. until 4 p.m. from July through October. The Chapel is available for worship, wed- dings and baptisms to all denominations. 302-604-8372, dagsboro.delaware.gov/prince-georges-chapel/. DELMAR AREA:U.S. 13 Dragway and Delaware International Speedway: Delaware’s eighth leading visitor attraction provides exciting drag racing and dirt track stock car racing events during most of the year. Located on US Route 13, just north of Delmar. Call for a schedule of racing events. 302-846-3911, www.delawareracing. com GEORGETOWN AREA:Georgetown Speedway: The Speedway features a fast, half-mile clay oval that produces high speeds and thrilling racing action. The facility has spacious grandstands, ample parking, a large, flat pit area, room for overnight camping and more.302-563-4896, www. thegeorgetownspeedway.com Greater Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center & Southern Delaware Tourism Office: The Chamber Office & Visitor Center is conveniently located at the gateway into Georgetown at 827 East Market Street, and is open most days Mon. thru Fri. 302-856-1544, www. georgetowncoc.com/. Nutter D. Marvel Carriage Museum: A collection of local structures, including barns, a school, church, and blacksmith shop, is the setting for a display of memorabilia and photographs of old Georgetown and Sussex County. Twenty antique horse-drawn carriages, assembled by Mr. Marvel and donated to the Town of Georgetown after his death in 1988, are on display. The museum is operated by the Georgetown Historical Society. Located on South Bedford Street. For tours call 302-855-9660, www.marvel- museum.com/. Delaware Aviation Museum: Features many WWII avia- tion artifacts and displays. Home of the Jeffrey L. Ethell Memorial Aviation Library of over 3,000 aviation related books. The largest aviation library in the east. Aircraft on display, or on the way to the museum include: B-25, L-16, UC-78B, Yak 9, Yak 52, PT26, CJ6, Mig 15, Mig 17, Mig 21, Iskra Jet, Fugi, C-130, Su-25K Frogfoot. Located at the Georgetown Airport, 21513 Rudder Lane. 443-458-8926 or visit www.delawareaviationmuseum.org/ Sandhill Fields: The 56-acre open fresh-air complex is home to cross-country field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, pick- leball and many more activities. On any given day you may find; a youth lacrosse game, a family kicking the soccer ball, pickleball social play, and/or a group walking their dog on our trails. Visit www.sandhillfields.org. Sports at the Beach: Slide into a new season of Baseball excitement at Sports at the Beach! The nearly 100-acre sports complex features sixteen all natural bermuda grass baseball fields where teams from across the East Coast battle it out to take home tournament gold! When players, coaches and fans are not enjoying the on field action, you may see them on one of eight basketball courts, the archery golf range or taking a dive in the olympic sized swimming pool. Call 302-856-7400 or visit www.sportsatthebeach. com for more info. Treasures of the Sea Exhibit: See splendid treasures and a video presentation about the Atocha, a Spanish galleon that sank in 1622 off the Florida Keys. Gold and silver bars from the wreck are on display, along with a cannon, jewels, and other treasures. The gift shop features maritime memorabilia and children’s gifts. The exhibit is located at Delaware Technical and Community College, Route 18, Georgetown, 21179 College Drive. The museum is cur- rently closed, call 302-259-6150 or visit www.treasuresoft- hesea.org/ for opening times. LAUREL AREA:Laurel Historic District: Laurel is host to more homes on the National Historic Register (800) than any other town in Delaware. Take a tour of Front Street and Indian Trail along scenic Broad Creek. 302-875-1344, www.laureldehistoricalsociety.org/ Laurel Market: Rt. 13 Market features multiple vendors and is open-year round. 11290 Trussum Pond Road, 302- 875-4800, www.rt13market.com Trap Pond State Park: One of Delaware’s most scenic state parks offers pond side camping, nature trails, pedal boats and canoes (summer rentals), bird watching, picnick- ing and more. Visit beautiful Trussum Pond nearby, contain- ing one of the northernmost stands of bald cypress trees in North America. Located off Route 24, five miles east of Laurel. Open daily 8 a.m. to sunset. Entrance fee March 1st through November 30th, annual vehicle permits avail- able. 302-875-5153, www.destateparks.com/PondsRivers/ TrapPond LEWES AREA:Cape Henlopen State Park: Where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware’s largest state park features public swimming beaches and bathhouses, a fishing pier, nature trails, camping, bird watching, a World War II observation tower, and the Seaside Nature Center’s educational programs, saltwater aquariums and displays. Open daily 8 a.m. to sunset. Entrance fee March 1st through November 30th, annual vehicle permits available. 302-645-8983, www.destateparks.com/Beaches/ CapeHenlopen Cape May Lewes Ferry: Whether you’re crossing the Delaware Bay for a fun day trip or as part of a long-distance trip, on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, your journey is sure to be a memorable one. Enjoy historic lighthouses, pictur- esque harbors, oceangoing vessels, unique seabirds and, just maybe, your very own dolphin escort! The 17-mile, 85-minute cruise between New Jerseyand Delaware can cut miles off a trip along the Atlantic Coast, connecting points between New Jersey and Delaware. Call 800-64- FERRY or visit www.cmlf.com. Fisher-Martin House and Lewes Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center: This historic wood-shingled structure houses the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center. Circa 1730, the charming gambrel-roofed house was moved from the countryside at Coolspring in 1980 as part of the 350th anniversary celebration of Lewes’ legacy See LEWES, MILFORD & MILLSBORO ATTRACTIONS- pg. 27 Lewes Attractions - from page 25 Page 26 2024 S. DE Spring & Summer Vacation Planner as the first European settlement in Delaware. Located on Kings Highway, behind the Zwaanendael Museum. Free admission, open daily Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., year round and Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mem. Day- Labor Day. 302-645-8073 or visit www.leweschamber.com. Fort Miles: Lying amidst rolling dunes, in the shadow of a World War II observation tower, is Fort Miles Historical Area. During World War II, the Delaware River was a chief priority for defense planners because of the access it afforded to the giant trade centers of Wilmington, Philadelphia, and beyond. Fort Miles, located in what is now Cape Henlopen State Park, was a key piece in the nation’s coastal defense at that time. Take a tour of the Fort, enjoy an interpretive program, dance to a swing band, and celebrate the “greatest generation” in our nation’s history. The Fort Miles Historic Area grounds are open 8 a.m. to sunset daily. Visit www. fortmiles.org Lighthouses: The Breakwater Light off the coast of Cape Henlopen was commissioned in 1828 by President John Quincy Adams, but decommissioned in 1994. The Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse, farther from shore, was built in 1901 as the final phase of the outer breakwater. This beacon is the only lighthouse off Delaware’s coast that still operates. The lights can best be seen from Cape Henlopen State Park or the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Tours around the Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse are offered during the summer. Visit delaware- baylights.org or call 302-644-7046. Lewes Harbor: Perhaps one of the most picturesque spots in Southern Delaware, this area of the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal has been painted by many artists throughout the years. It is home to numerous pleasure boats, plus a fleet of head boats and charter boats offering fishing and sight-seeing excursions. The harbor is home to Angler’s Fishing Center, Fisherman’s Wharf and Lewes Harbour Marina. A public boat ramp provides access to the Canal and the Delaware Bay. Located at the drawbridge on Savannah Road. For info call 302-645-6227 or visit www.lewesharbourmarina.com Lewes Historical Society Complex: This impressive historical complex highlights the Burton-Ingram House, Cannonball House Marine Museum, Doctor’s Office, Early Plank House, Ellegood House, Lightship Overfalls, Rabbit’s Ferry House, Thompson’s Country Store and the Ryves Holt House and other buildings.The Ryves Holt House in the oldest house in Delaware (1665) still standing on its original location, at the corner of Second and Mulberry Streets. Call 302-645-7670, www.historiclewes.org/ Lewes History Museum and Children’s Discovery Center: Located in the Margaret H. Rollins Community Center at 101 Adams Avenue. Enjoy ongoing exhibits fea- turing Lewes’s maritime history, decorative arts and artists, famous families of Lewes. Children (and those young at heart) can experience 19th century Delaware and its asso- ciated values and responsibilities at the new Children’s Discovery Center. Call 302-645-7670 or visit www.histori- clewes.org/ Midway Speedway & White Water Mountain Water Park: The entertainment complex located off Rt. 1 outside of Lewes provides a variety of activities for the whole fam- ily. The Midway Speedway go-karts are open year-round (weather permitting). The water park is open May through 2024 Southern Delaware Spring & Summer Vacation PlannerPage 27 See MILTON ATTRACTIONS- page 31 Lewes, Milford & Millsboro Attractions - from page 26 September (weather permitting). Speedway 302-644-2042, Water Park 302-645-8064, midwayspeedwaypark.com The Overfalls Maritime Museum: The LV 118, known as the Lightship Overfalls, was the last lightship commissioned by the U.S. Lighthouse Services. Built before World War II, the lightship is open to the public for guided tours. For hours, call 302-644-8050 or visit www.overfalls.org. Pirates of Lewes Expeditions: Ahoy mates! Take your family on a swashbuckling pirate adventure sail aboard the Sea Gypsy and search for sunken treasure and battle Pirate Pete with one of the 12 water cannons onboard. Captain Crunch will tell you about local Lewes pirate history. The 70 minute cruise includes face painting, pirate dress up, music, dancing, and a bag of booty from the treasure chest for each child. Daily boat rides all summer, weekends. May and September on the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal in the heart of Historic Lewes. Call 302-249-3538 or visit lewespirates. com. World War II Observation Tower: One of our country’s eleven WWII-era concrete observation towers, familiar along Delaware’s coast, has been renovated and opened to the public at Cape Henlopen State Park. From the top, you can see much of the area’s Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean coastline, and on a clear day, Cape May, New Jersey. Open during state park hours, free admission with park entrance fee. 302-645-8983, www.destateparks.com/ Beaches/CapeHenlopen Zwaanendael Museum: This unique museum is housed in a replica of the City Hall of Hoorn, the Netherlands. The building was dedicated in 1931 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the first European (Dutch) settlement in Delaware, which was originally named Zwaanendael, but is now known as Lewes. Seafaring artifacts are on display, including those from the famed DeBraak, which sank off the Delaware coast. Located at 102 Kings Highway in the heart of Lewes. Admission is free, Call 302-645-1148, history. delaware.gov/zm_main/ MILFORD AREA:Abbott’s Mill Nature Center: Home of the Delaware Nature Society, this environmental educa- tion complex is clustered around a preserved gristmill that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The complex includes two modern nature center buildings, a barn, a nature trail with observation tower, and a boat ramp on Abbott’s Pond. Facilities are available for community use and retreats. Located at 15411 Abbott’s Pond Road, Milford Grounds are open dawn to dusk. Tours are free, but programs are by fee, Call 302-422-0847 or visit www. delawarenaturesociety.org. Freshwater Ponds in Milford: Abbott’s Pond, Blair’s Pond, Griffith Lake, and Haven Lake provide hours of fish- ing, boating or simply relaxing. Enjoy a picnic and take in the cool breezes with the family. Freshwater fishing license required in Delaware for those over 16. Delaware Div. of Fish & Wildlife, 302-739-3441, www.eregulations.com/ delaware/fishing/. Milford Chamber of Commerce Office & Visitor Center: The Visitor Center is located at 24 NW Front St. and open Mon.-Fri., 302-422-3344, www.milfordchamber.com/ Milford Museum: Housed in a former post office build- ing, the museum’s permanent exhibits tell the story of the city from its earliest beginnings on the Mispillion River. Exhibits include model ships representing Milford’s mari- time past, a 300 piece silver collection, antique dental tools from the local L. D. Caulk Company, and an antique doll collection. The museum also houses the E. Millis Hurley Library, an extensive collection of Delaware history books. Located on Walnut Street in downtown Milford. Open Tuesday –Saturdays 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. Group tours available, 302-424- 1080 or www.milforddemuseum.org/ Milford’s Historic Area: Milford is graced with three historic districts on the National Register and three historic bed and breakfast inns. The town’s architecture is delight- ful, especially along the streets surrounding the heart of the downtown area at Walnut Street and the Mispillion River. 302-422-2187, downtownmilford.org. Parson Thorne Mansion: Built in 1730s, the mansion’s unusual architec- ture progressed from a settler’s dwelling to Georgian to Victorian in style. The home has always held a prominent position in Milford’s history, once overlooking shipbuilding and milling activities on the river. The mansion was home to several famous figures, most notably its namesake Parson Sydenham Thorne, Milford’s founder. Located on N. W. Front Street (Route 14), just east of Route 113. Group tours are welcome. Call 302-422-3115 for hours or visit down- townmilford.org. Slaughter Beach: This fishing village on the shore of the Delaware Bay features public boat ramps and public beach facilities. 302-424-7659, slaughterbeach.delaware.gov/ Millsboro Area:Cupola Park: This community park at the headwaters of Indian River features public boat ramps, a playground, picnic pavilion, and an exceptional bald cypress tree, one of the largest in Delaware. Located just off Route 24 on the east side of Millsboro, www.millsboro.org/ Freshwater Ponds in Millsboro: Ingrams Pond, Betts Pond (privately owned but public allowed), and Millsboro Pond provide hours of fishing, boating, or simply relaxing for a picnic and taking in the cool breezes. Freshwater fish- ing license required for those over 16. Call Del. Division of Fish & Wildlife, 302-739-3441, or visit www.millsboro.org/ Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center: The Chamber/Visitors Center is located downtown at 203 Main street and open Mon.-Fri. Call 302-934-6777 for hours or visit www.millsborochamber.com. Nanticoke Indian Museum: The museum features arti- facts and exhibits that tell the rich history of the Delaware Nanticoke Indian Tribe and others nationwide, with an extensive Native American library. The community holds its annual two-day Powwow in September, with ceremonial dancing, music, storytelling, Native American crafts and food at Hudson Fields in Milton. Located at 27073 John J. Williams Hwy, Millsboro. Call 302-945-7022 or visit www. nanticokeindians.org/page/museum MILTON AREA:Broadkill River Canoe Trail: The tidal Broadkill River providesa gentle canoe trail between Memorial Park in Milton and the Nature Conservancy’s McCabe Preserve. The preserve offers a landing spot on shore and a hiking trail for enjoying the native flora and fauna. The canoe trail is a joint venture of the Town of Milton and The Nature Conservancy’s Delaware Chapter. Canoe rentals are available from Wilson’s Marina at 309 Next >