Zwaanendael Museum: A Dutch Legacy in Lewes
Explore Delaware's Dutch heritage at the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes, a showcase of maritime, military, and social history.
Commemorating Delaware's first European colony, the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes showcases the area's maritime, military, and social history. Modeled after the town hall in Hoorn, Netherlands, the museum offers free admission and a glimpse into the state's Dutch roots.
A brief summary to Zwaanendael Museum
- 102 Kings Hwy, Lewes, Delaware, 19958, US
- +1302-645-1148
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-4:15 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:15 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:15 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:15 pm
Local tips
- Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
- Street parking is available near the museum in downtown Lewes.
- The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays year-round.
- Restrooms are not available in the museum, but they can be found in the park behind it.
Getting There
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Walking
The Zwaanendael Museum is located in historic downtown Lewes, easily accessible on foot from many points in the area. From the Lewes Transit Center, walk north on Coastal Highway, turn left onto Savannah Road, and then turn right onto Kings Highway. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes. There are sidewalks along the route.
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Public Transport
DART First State operates bus routes that serve Lewes. The Lewes Line, a seasonal transit program, has a stop at the Zwaanendael Museum along Savannah Road. Check the DART First State website for schedules and route information. A single ride fare is $2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Lewes. A ride from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal to the Zwaanendael Museum is approximately 2 miles and costs around $15-$20, depending on demand and surge pricing. Pickup times may be longer than in larger cities.
Discover more about Zwaanendael Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lewes Historic Sign
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Explore the Lewes Historic Sign, a key historical landmark in Delaware that showcases the town's rich maritime heritage and captivating stories.
Lewes Historical Marker
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Discover the historical significance of Lewes at the Historical Marker, a tribute to the town's rich maritime heritage in Delaware.
Lewes Historical Society Antique Shop
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Discover the rich history of Lewes through unique antiques at the Lewes Historical Society Antique Shop, a gem in Delaware's historic coastal town.
Heirloom
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Experience the best of American cuisine at Heirloom in the heart of Lewes, Delaware, where fresh, local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Lewes Chamber of Commerce
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Explore Lewes, Delaware through the Lewes Chamber of Commerce: Your gateway to local businesses, events, and historic sites in this charming coastal town.
Cape Artists Gallery
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Discover local artistry at Cape Artists Gallery in Lewes, Delaware - a vibrant hub of creativity and cultural expression.
Lewes Oyster House
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Experience the best of coastal dining at Lewes Oyster House, where fresh seafood and local flavors come together in a charming setting.
Lewes Mercantile Antique Gallery
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Discover rare antiques and vintage treasures at Lewes Mercantile Antique Gallery, a must-visit destination in historic Lewes, Delaware.
Abraxas Studio of Art
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Monument Sotheby's International Realty - Coastal Division
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Savannah Inn
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Olive and Oats Lewes
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Experience the delightful flavors and cozy atmosphere at Olive and Oats Lewes, a beloved cafe in the heart of Delaware's historic district, perfect for breakfast and brunch.
Heidi Lowe Gallery and Lovely Rings by Hand
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biblion: used books & rare finds
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lewes Town Clock
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The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House
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Explore Lewes' maritime history at the iconic Cannonball House, a War of 1812 survivor and home to captivating nautical exhibits.
Ryves Holt House
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Explore Delaware's oldest house, a window into colonial life and maritime history in the heart of Lewes' historic district.
Lewes CanalFront Park
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Discover waterfront beauty and maritime history at Lewes CanalFront Park, a vibrant community space in historic Lewes, Delaware.
Queen Anne Pier
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A charming beach pavilion in Lewes, Delaware, offering serene water views, birdwatching, and a peaceful coastal experience within Cape Henlopen State Park.
The Lewes Historical Society Main Campus
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Lightship Overfalls LV-118
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Lewes Life Saving Station
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Cape Water Tours and Taxi
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Island Tiki Tour
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Lewes History Museum
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Lewes Junction
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Stango Park
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Pirates of Lewes
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Savannah Beach
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Enjoy the serene shores of Savannah Beach in Lewes, DE – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun on the Delaware Bay.
Essential places to dine
Raas
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Bramble & Brine at the Buttery
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Touch of Italy
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Striper Bites
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Nectar Cafe & Juice Bar
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Half Full
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Honeys Farm Fresh Gourmet Kitchen Breakfast&Lunch
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Kindle
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Rose & Crown
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Agave Mexican Restaurant
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Eggcellent
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Harbour Restaurant at Canal Square
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Wheelhouse
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Pig & Publican
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Lemon Tree Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zwaanendael Club Museum Store
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Coolspring Cottage Boutique
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Henlopen trading company
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Just Lewes
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Lewes Wear
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Blooming Boutique
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Fairy Godmother
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Treasures
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Deanna's
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Lewes Gifts
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Edie Bees Confection Shop
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Twila Farrell Clothing and Accessories
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Lewes Bake Shoppe & Notting Hill Coffee Roastery
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Shorebreak
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Kids' Ketch
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dogfish Inn
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Bay Crossing Club House
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The Hideout Arcade Bar & Grille
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Coastal Taproom
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Big Chill Surf Cantina
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Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
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Conch Island Key West Bar and Grill
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Diego's Bar Nightclub, Rehoboth Avenue Extension, Rehoboth Beach, DE
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Arena's Cafe
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Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
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Aqua Bar & Grill
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The Libation Room
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Red Square Caviar Bar
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La Fable
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Jam Bistro
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