The Delaware Beaches is a destination that offers an abundance of activities beyond its beautiful shoreline. Along with robust events calendars and an elevated dining scene, the region is brimming with a diverse array of cultural experiences. From art galleries and performance art to local museums and interesting shows, there are endless interesting and educational opportunities to discover here. 

By Julie Matthews

Captivating Artwork

Delaware Beaches is a fabulous destination to experience the arts. From fine art to performance arts, the region has something for everybody. Reflecting its quaint coastal charms, the region has a number of delightful art galleries and centers to explore. 

Located on a tranquil, three-acre campus in Rehoboth, the Rehoboth Art League is a hub for local artists. Throughout the year, it holds exhibits and events in support of the area’s art community. Also in Rehoboth, Gallery 50, which has a contemporary emphasis, showcases the artwork of up-and-coming and regional artists. In addition to exhibits, it hosts a variety of other events from poetry readings to film screenings. 

In Bethany Beach, the Blue Room Gallery and Gift Shop is an engaging spot to peruse for an art fix. Not far away, Lewes is an art community well worth exploring, where you’ll find a variety of small art galleries and studios, with paintings, glass blowing and more. Mispillion Art League, offering art exhibits and classes, in Milford is another place to add to your self-created art trail. 

Delaware Beaches definitely has an artsy flare throughout its various sections. Along with its galleries, the community’s strong artisan influence is apparent in its eclectic events and unique shops. The region hosts a number of incredible art festivals during the year that art lovers will not want to miss. Held at the Lewes Historical Society, the Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival, June 7-8, showcases a wide range of impressive sea glass creations and other coastal-inspired works of art. On September 6, the Bethany Beach Boardwalk Arts Festival will take over downtown Bethany Beach. This popular annual event features more than 100 juried artists and their talented artwork. Sidewalk Sale events, held in both in the spring and fall in Rehoboth and Dewey Beach, are also beloved in this region. Shoppers get a great opportunity to support local artists and businesses at these stands dotting the downtown areas.

Live Performances

While very family-friendly, Delaware Beaches is also a place where you can let your hair down and let loose. Live music is a regular occurrence in restaurants and in bars, particularly in Rehoboth Beach. From enjoying cover tunes from a cozy corner to dancing the night away at a drag queen show, there’s something fun and uplifting here for everybody.

Catching a theater production is a must while in the area. In Rehoboth, check out the events listing at Clear Space Theatre, an intimate venue where you can immerse yourself into all kinds of captivating shows, including hilarious comedy performances. For the kids, be sure to take a look at The Rehoboth Summer Children’s Theatre lineup. 

Bethany Beach Bandstand and Rehoboth Beach Bandstand both offer a continual flow of great concerts throughout the summer with all different genres of music, from rock and pop to country and jazz. Plus, enjoy fabulous tribute concerts.

Local Museums 

With a rich history full of maritime heritage and stories, the museums throughout the Delaware Beaches offer highly interesting educational opportunities in its various corners. In Rehoboth, explore exhibits and artifacts the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society & Museum, the Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum and The Anna Hazzard Museum. The Discoveries Shipwreck Museum in Fenwick Island and The Nanticoke Indian Museum near Millsboro also offer incredible cultural experiences.

And history enthusiasts will not want to miss spending time in historic Lewes, which is loaded with historical gems, such as The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House and The Zwannendael Museum.

However, you plan to fill your time in Delaware Beaches soak in the region’s extraordinary communities and its different personalities. Come experience and learn something new!