Where in the world can you find a town so steeped in history that its greatest tradition is still performed as it was in colonial days – with horse-drawn carriages and an ox feast? We’ll tell you where: Georgetown, DE. This town in what the locals call “Lower, Slower Delaware”, and it’s rich in history and culture. Its traditions and demographics make it one of the most interesting towns in the world. Keep reading to learn more about the best things to do in Georgetown, Delaware!

So just where is Georgetown, Delaware? This charming little town is located about a 45-minute drive south of Dover, the state capital.
Flickr / Norman B Leventhal Map Center
Just about everything in Georgetown makes it stand out from other Delaware towns. Starting with the layout - rather than being built on a traditional city grid system, the town was constructed around a circle, which remains the center of town to this day.
The center of town is still called "The Circle," and it's lined with many historic buildings.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
You'll find the Georgetown Town Hall, multiple state and county buildings, and the historic Sussex County Courthouse, which was built in 1873 to replace the original courthouse. It was restored in the 1970s and is the most recognizable building in Sussex County.
The Circle is the town's economic center, too.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Across from the government building you'll find the bank, retail stores, professional offices and the historic Brick Hotel on the Circle. NOTE: Although the hotel is permanently closed and now serves as government offices, it remains in name only, as it is registered as a historic property.

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The only thing more recognizable in Delaware than the Sussex Co. Courthouse is the Georgetown Fountain.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
The small park in the middle of the circle is a wonderful place to sit and relax on a nice day, and watch the happenings of government and business all around you. People who come to Georgetown for a relaxing weekend getaway often come here to sit and enjoy.
When you head away from the Circle, you'll still encounter numerous historic buildings.
Flickr / Eli Pousson
Francis Asbury began preaching in the town as early as 1779, and shortly thereafter the first church was built on West Pine Street. There are numerous stately homes and many other buildings in Georgetown that are on the National Register of Historic Places. A short list, for history buffs: Joseph T. Adams House, Peter S. Faucett House, First Broiler House, Stella Pepper Gyles House Dr. John W. Messick House and Office, David Carlton Pepper Farm, Redden Forest Lodge, Forester's House and Stable, Richards Mansion, Short Homestead, and McColley's Chapel,
It isn't just Georgetown's history that makes it unique, though. It's also the traditions the town has kept alive.
Flickr / Mike Mahaffie
Every two years, Georgetown celebrates its greatest holiday, Return Day. The "Day" is really only an afternoon, but it's a holiday for county and state workers throughout Sussex. In colonial times, it would take two days for election results to arrive in Georgetown from Dover, and residents would gather to hear. The Winners would parade around the circle in horse-draw carriages, and a literal hatchet would be buried as a symbolic way to put differences aside for the good of the state and county. At the end of the day, the Parade gives way to an ox feast, and it marks the beginning of the next set of campaigns.
Another thing that sets Georgetown apart from the rest of Slower Lower Delaware is its diversity.
Flickr / Michele Dorsey Walfred
Because of the strong history of agriculture (and the major employer, Perdue Farms), Georgetown is a popular town for Central American immigrants. There are large populations, particularly of Haitian and Guatemalan families. While other Sussex County towns are overwhelmingly white, Georgetown has a much more diverse population, and with that comes incredibly rich culture. This is evidenced in many of the restaurants, shops, and other entities in town as well.

Georgetown, Delaware is an amazing place to visit if you want a unique experience, rich in culture and history. Make it a stop on your next road trip through Delaware, and you’ll soon realize the charm it brings to the state.

What are your favorite things to do in Georgetown, Delaware? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Things to do In Georgetown, Delaware

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | October 06, 2022

Where are some good places to eat in Georgetown?

The best places to eat in Georgetown are:

  • Georgetown Family Restaurant
  • Bella Capri
  • Little Mexico

 

Believe it or not, Georgetown actually does have a pretty diverse gastronomic scene. You can find everything from seafood to steaks, Japanese, Italian, Greek, Chinese, and so much more. One of the most common popular types of food in town is Mexican. Sol Azteca, Restaurante Mi Laurita, and Jalapeno Restaurant are just a few delicious spots.

What are the best romantic getaways in Delaware?

The best romantic getaways in Delaware are:

  • Historic homes in Odessa
  • White Clay Creek State Park
  • Riverfront Park
  • Rehoboth Beach

 

Delaware is a wonderful state in which to enjoy a romantic getaway and everywhere you look there are cozy intimate places worthy of a visit. A few suggestions for you are strolling along beautiful Rehoboth Beach, booking a stay at the historic Inn at Montchanin Village and Spa in Wilmington, going hiking, fishing, or bird watching at beautiful White Clay Creek State Park in Newark, or dining at one of the amazing restaurants inside of the Hotel DuPont, which is also in Wilmington, just to name a few.

Where can I go for outdoor recreation in Georgetown?

The best place to visit for outdoor recreation in Georgetown is Redden State Forest. Somewhat secluded but well worth the journey, it is the largest state park in Delaware, encompassing more than 12,900 acres. As you meander along, you will find it peppered with beautiful soaring trees, over four dozen miles of trails, and lots of places for picnics. It is also one of the most popular places in the state to enjoy camping. Whether you enjoy horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, or bird watching, you’ll find a wealth of options here.

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Georgetown, DE 19947, USA