The Delaware Beaches are known for their stunning coastal beauty, and they also boast a range of museums and galleries that showcase local history, art, and culture. Here's a guide to some notable ones in the area:
Located just outside Rehoboth Beach, this non-profit art organization is one of the oldest in Delaware. It has a charming campus that includes multiple galleries, a sculpture garden, and a variety of classes and workshops for artists of all skill levels. The Rehoboth Art League showcases rotating exhibits of local, regional, and national artists, particularly focusing on fine arts and crafts.
Situated in the historic town of Lewes, this museum is housed in a Dutch-style building and celebrates the rich maritime history of Delaware. The Zwaanendael Museum offers exhibits that detail the area's colonial history, including the founding of Lewes, Delaware’s role in the American Revolution, and the history of the local maritime industry. It also provides insight into Lewes’ role in the nation’s history as a port town.
A charming gallery in Bethany Beach, the Tunnell Vision Gallery is a hub for local artists and artisans. This gallery features paintings, sculptures, photography, and crafts by Delaware-based artists, many of whom draw inspiration from the area’s coastal environment. It's a great spot to find unique, locally made art and gifts.
One of Rehoboth Beach’s premier galleries, The Coastal Gallery is dedicated to showcasing fine art inspired by the coastal landscape and lifestyle. It offers works in a variety of media, including paintings, photography, and sculptures, often with a focus on nature, the beach, and the surrounding environment.
The Lewes Historical Society operates several museums and historic buildings throughout the town, including a historic house and a maritime museum. It offers exhibits on Lewes’ early settlers, its role in American history, and the evolution of the local fishing and maritime industries. The organization also organizes walking tours and special events that highlight Lewes' unique history.
This small but informative museum tells the story of Rehoboth Beach from its early days as a Methodist camp meeting ground to its transformation into a popular beach resort. It features exhibits on local history, including information about the area's growth, the Rehoboth Beach Fire Department, and the railroad's role in tourism.
While not strictly a traditional museum, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse is an important historical site in the region. The lighthouse is open to the public during the summer months and provides a glimpse into the area's maritime history. Visitors can learn about the lighthouse's construction, its role in guiding ships, and the surrounding area's development.
Located in Bethany Beach, the Denton House is a charming example of a Victorian-style house, and it’s part of the South Coastal Library's heritage collection. Visitors can explore the history of the region through exhibits in the library and the adjacent Denton House.
For those interested in the natural history of the Delaware Beaches, Delaware Seashore State Park offers educational exhibits about the local ecosystems. It also features opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and educational programs on coastal conservation.
The Delaware Beaches also host various art festivals and craft fairs, such as the Rehoboth Beach Spring and Fall Festivals and the Bethany Beach Arts Festival, which feature local artists, photographers, and craftspeople. These festivals offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of work, from fine art to handmade goods, and often coincide with the beach season.