Fort Miles Historic Area: A WWII Coastal Defense
Explore a key WWII coastal defense: tour Battery 519, see artillery, and climb the fire control tower at Cape Henlopen's Fort Miles Historic Area.
Explore Fort Miles, a key U.S. coastal defense installation during World War II, located in Cape Henlopen State Park. Tour Battery 519, wander through the artillery park, and climb the fire control tower for scenic views while learning about the fort's crucial role in protecting the Delaware Bay and the nation's coastline.
A brief summary to Fort Miles Historic Area
- 15099 Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, Delaware, 19958, US
- +1302-644-5007
- Visit website
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Check the Fort Miles Museum's operating hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to tour the artillery park and climb the fire control tower.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history of Fort Miles and its significance during World War II.
- Be aware that there is a park entrance fee to Cape Henlopen State Park, in addition to any fees for museum admission or tours.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Cape Henlopen State Park's main parking areas, follow the signs for Fort Miles. The Fort Miles Historical Area is located within walking distance of the Seaside Nature Center and the Hawk Watch area. The walk is relatively flat and well-maintained.
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Public Transport
The DART First State Bus Route 204 stops at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal. From the ferry terminal, it is approximately a 50-minute walk (4226 yards) to Cape Henlopen State Park. From there, follow the walking directions to Fort Miles. A one-way bus fare is typically around $2.
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Driving
From Lewes, take Cape Henlopen Drive into Cape Henlopen State Park. Follow the signs for Fort Miles. There is ample paved parking near Fort Miles. Park entrance fees are required from March 1 to November 30: $5/day for Delaware vehicles, $10/day for out-of-state vehicles.
Discover more about Fort Miles Historic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fire Control Tower 7
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Tower Number Twelve
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Cape May-Lewes Ferry
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Lewes and Rehoboth Canal
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Pilot Point
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WWII Artillery Fire Observation Tower #6
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WWII Artillery Fire Observation Tower #5
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Lewes Chamber of Commerce
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Lewes Oyster House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Miles Historical Area
0.0 km
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Fort Miles Artillery Park
0.1 km
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Cape Henlopen Great Dune, Delaware
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Fort Miles Museum
0.2 km
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Seaside Nature Center
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Cape Henlopen State Park
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Fort Miles Battery Herring
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Herring Point
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Fishing Pier Cape Henlopen
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Gordons Pond Trail
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Cape Henlopen State Park Beach
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Cape Henlopen
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Gordon Pond Wildlife Area
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Johnnie Walker Beach
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Savannah Beach
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Essential places to dine
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On The Rocks Dockside Grill
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Dairy Queen
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Harvest Tide Steakhouse, Lewes, DE
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Lemon Tree Restaurant
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Wheelhouse
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Striper Bites
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Kindle
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Campground Store
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Lighthouse View Bait & Tackle
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Lewes Coffee Co
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