Fort Miles Museum: A WWII Coastal Defense Fortress
Explore Fort Miles Museum: Relive WWII history at this coastal defense fortress in Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, DE.
Delve into the compelling history of Fort Miles Museum, situated in Cape Henlopen State Park near Lewes, Delaware. Built in the early years of World War II, Fort Miles served as a crucial coastal defense base, safeguarding key U.S. infrastructure and ports like Philadelphia and Wilmington from potential German attacks. The museum is housed within Battery 519, a 15,000-square-foot underground bunker, and showcases exhibits about coastal defense and the daily lives of the 2,000 soldiers and civilians stationed here during WWII. Explore the museum's exhibits, which include the Civil Air Patrol, a relic from the U.S.S. Arizona, stories of the 261st Coast Artillery, Civilian Service, the 21st Mine Planters, and the Battery 519 Gallery. See the artillery park, barracks, and fire control tower. Through guided tours, self-guided exploration, and special events, visitors can connect with this pivotal piece of American history. Fort Miles also played a role in the Cold War, serving as a top-secret Navy listening post. Today, the Fort Miles Historical Association and Delaware State Parks work together to preserve and restore the fort's batteries, barracks, and other original buildings.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the museum involves walking, especially if exploring the artillery park and other outdoor areas.
- Check the museum's operating hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
- Consider booking a guided tour in advance to gain deeper insights into the fort's history and significance.
- Active duty military personnel and veterans can enter for free.
A brief summary to Fort Miles Museum
- Post Ln, Lewes, Delaware, 19958, US
- +1302-644-5007
- Visit website
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Driving
From Lewes, follow Cape Henlopen Drive into Cape Henlopen State Park. Once inside the park, follow the signs for Fort Miles. Parking is available in the main Fort Miles Museum parking lot. Park entrance fees are in effect from March 1 to November 30: $5 daily for Delaware-registered vehicles and $10 daily for out-of-state vehicles.
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Public Transport
Take the DART Route 204 bus to the Cape Henlopen State Park. From the bus stop, follow the signs to Fort Miles within the park. A daily park entrance fee of $5 for Delaware-registered vehicles and $10 for out-of-state vehicles is required from March 1 to November 30.
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Walking
From the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal, it is a considerable walk (over 2 miles) to Fort Miles within Cape Henlopen State Park. Follow the main park road, and then follow signs for Fort Miles. Be prepared for a lengthy walk. A daily park entrance fee of $5 for Delaware-registered vehicles and $10 for out-of-state vehicles is required from March 1 to November 30.
