Fort Miles Historical Area: A WWII Coastal Defense Fortress
Explore a key WWII coastal defense fortress at Fort Miles Historical Area in Cape Henlopen State Park, Delaware. History, tours, and scenic views await.
Explore Fort Miles Historical Area in Cape Henlopen State Park, a key coastal defense installation during World War II. Tour Battery 519, see artillery, and learn about the fort's role in protecting the Delaware Bay and the nation's coastline.
A brief summary to Fort Miles Historical Area
- 15099 Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, Delaware, 19958, US
- +1302-644-5007
- Visit website
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to tour the entire site.
- Check the museum's operating hours before you go, as they vary depending on the season.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history and significance.
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic views from the fire control tower and the impressive artillery pieces.
- Combine your visit with other activities in Cape Henlopen State Park, such as hiking, biking, or beachcombing.
Getting There
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Driving
Fort Miles is located within Cape Henlopen State Park. After entering the park, continue past the toll booths and turn right at the T-intersection. Continue straight and bear left near the campground entrance. The Fort Miles Historic Site is on the right, directly across the street from the observation tower. Park entrance fees apply: $5 for Delaware residents and $10 for non-residents, from April to October. Off-season admission is free.
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Public Transport
The DART First State Bus Route 204 stops at the DRBA Ferry Terminal. From there, it's approximately a 30-minute walk (2700 yards) to Fort Miles within Cape Henlopen State Park. Check the DART website for schedules and fare information. Park entrance fees are additional: $5 for Delaware residents and $10 for non-residents, from April to October. Off-season admission is free.
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Walking
If you are already within Cape Henlopen State Park, follow the park's internal roads and trails to Fort Miles. The site is well-signposted. From the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal, it is a considerable walk (approximately 2 miles) to the Fort Miles area. Follow signs within the park.
Discover more about Fort Miles Historical Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fire Control Tower 7
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Tower Number Twelve
1.0 km
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Cape May-Lewes Ferry
2.6 km
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Lewes - Cape May 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
3.2 km
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WWII Artillery Fire Observation Tower #5
3.5 km
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The Blue Water House
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Monument Sotheby's International Realty - Coastal Division
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Lewes Mercantile Antique Gallery
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Heidi Lowe Gallery and Lovely Rings by Hand
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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 Historic 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
1.1 km
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Cape Henlopen State Park
1.3 km
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Fort Miles Battery Herring
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Herring Point
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Fishing Pier Cape Henlopen
1.7 km
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Gordons Pond Trail
1.8 km
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Cape Henlopen State Park Beach
2.0 km
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Cape Henlopen
2.9 km
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Gordon Pond Wildlife Area
3.1 km
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Johnnie Walker Beach
3.3 km
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Savannah Beach
3.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Grain On The Rocks
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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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Pig & Publican
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Wheelhouse
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Striper Bites
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Touch of Italy
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Nectar Cafe & Juice Bar
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Raas
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Kindle
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Harbour Restaurant at Canal Square
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Half Full
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Campground Store
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Breakwater Bait and Tackle
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Lighthouse View Bait & Tackle
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Lewes Coffee Co
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Lewes Variety
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Lewes Cycle Sports
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Just Lewes
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Lewes Wear
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Blooming Boutique Accessories
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PUZZLES
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Lewes Gourmet
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Freddies Beach Bar - Rehoboth Beach
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The Libation Room
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Summer House
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