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Fort Miles Artillery Park: Guardians of the Delaware Bay

Explore WWII history at Fort Miles Artillery Park in Cape Henlopen State Park. Discover coastal defenses and impressive artillery.

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Explore Fort Miles Artillery Park, a WWII coastal defense installation within Cape Henlopen State Park. See impressive artillery pieces, tour Battery 519, and learn about the fort's role in protecting the Delaware Bay and vital trade centers during the war.

A brief summary to Fort Miles Artillery Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the Fort Miles Museum's opening hours before you go, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Consider taking a guided tour of Battery 519 for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history.
  • Bring a camera to capture the impressive artillery pieces and scenic coastal views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main entrance of Cape Henlopen State Park, follow Cape Henlopen Drive for approximately 1.5 miles. Look for signs leading to Fort Miles Artillery Park. The walk takes about 30 minutes. No additional costs are associated with walking.

  • Car

    From the main entrance of Cape Henlopen State Park, drive along Cape Henlopen Drive for about 1.5 miles. The entrance to Fort Miles Artillery Park will be on your left. Follow the brown park signs. Parking is available on-site and is free. Note that there is an entrance fee to Cape Henlopen State Park during certain times of the year. From April to October, the fee is $5 for Delaware residents and $10 for non-residents. Off-season admission is free.

Unlock the Best of Fort Miles Artillery Park

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Discover more about Fort Miles Artillery Park

Fort Miles Artillery Park, located within Cape Henlopen State Park, offers a glimpse into the crucial coastal defense strategies employed during World War II. Built between 1941 and 1944, Fort Miles was a key component in safeguarding the Delaware Bay and the vital commercial and industrial centers of Wilmington and Philadelphia from potential German attacks. The park showcases a collection of artillery pieces representing the types of guns that were once positioned here, including 155mm, 3-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 16-inch guns. While these are not the original guns, they offer a powerful visual representation of the fort's firepower. Visitors can explore Battery 519, a 15,000-square-foot underground bunker, and learn about the fort's history through exhibits and artifacts. At its peak, Fort Miles housed over 2,200 soldiers and civilian personnel. Although the fort never saw major action, its presence served as a deterrent, and its gunners achieved high marksmanship ratings during practice. Today, the Fort Miles Historical Association and Delaware State Parks have worked to preserve and restore the site, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience this important chapter in American history. Beyond the military history, the park offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape, providing opportunities for photography and leisurely walks.

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