Fort Miles Historical Area

Near Fort Miles Historical Area, Lewes offers a diverse range of dining options. Wheelhouse is a popular seafood restaurant with a waterfront location, offering oysters and other seafood dishes in a family-friendly setting. For a more upscale experience, Heirloom serves creative American dishes in a charming Victorian house. Lewes Oyster House is renowned for its seafood and oyster bar, providing a cozy atmosphere with great cocktails. Matt's Fish Camp Lewes offers a bright and charming bistro experience with updated seafood classics. Lastly, Pig & Publican is a casual bar and grill with a great selection of beers and cocktails.

For accommodations near Fort Miles Historical Area, visitors can choose from several excellent hotels. The Hyatt House Lewes / Rehoboth Beach offers a laid-back stay with amenities like a bar, pool, and free breakfast. The Dogfish Inn is a trendy, retro-inspired hotel associated with Dogfish Head Brewery, providing complimentary s'mores and a unique experience. Both hotels offer convenient access to the historical area and the surrounding attractions of Lewes.

Fort Miles Historical Area and Lewes Beach provide a variety of amenities for visitors. At Lewes Beach, there are bathhouses with shower facilities, Mobi-Mats for easier beach access, and permanent benches near parking lots. The area also features volleyball nets and offers beach wheelchairs free of charge. In Cape Henlopen State Park, where Fort Miles is located, visitors can enjoy picnic areas, hiking trails, and scenic views. The park's nature center offers educational programs and exhibits.

The area around Fort Miles Historical Area offers a range of activities. Visitors can explore the historical bunkers and fire control towers, learning about the fort's role in World War II. The nearby Lewes Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the shoreline. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cape Henlopen State Park provides hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic drives. Additionally, the Lewes-Rehoboth Loop offers a 15-mile bike route with stunning natural scenery.

Both Fort Miles Historical Area and Lewes Beach offer some disability access features. At Lewes Beach, Mobi-Mats provide easier access to the beach for those with mobility issues. Many of the restaurants and hotels in the area also offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating. However, some historical sites may have limited accessibility due to their age and design.

Parking near Fort Miles Historical Area is generally available within Cape Henlopen State Park, with fees applicable for entry. At Lewes Beach, metered parking is available from May to September, with additional parking options nearby. It's advisable to plan ahead for parking, especially during peak summer months when spaces can fill quickly.

Fort Miles Historical Area is notable for its historical significance, including the surrender of the German submarine U-858 in 1945. The fort never engaged in combat but was a crucial part of the U.S. coastal defense system during World War II. The area is also home to several fire control towers, which were used to triangulate enemy ships. Today, the site is part of Cape Henlopen State Park, offering a blend of history and natural beauty.

The Fort Miles Historical Area is itself a major attraction, with its historical significance and scenic location. Nearby, the Harbor of Refuge Lighthouse offers stunning views and a glimpse into maritime history. The Cape Henlopen State Park provides a variety of natural attractions, including hiking trails and scenic overlooks. In the town of Lewes, visitors can explore historic downtown shops and enjoy local seafood at waterfront restaurants.