Is there anything more charming and delightful than a small town? These little spots in rural Delaware offer plenty of small businesses, adorable architecture and a warm, wonderful feeling of community. Take a look at these 10 rural towns that we just love.

1. Laurel
Laurel, DE 19956, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
The charming little town of Laurel has fewer than 4,000 residents and is also home to the beautiful Trap Pond State Park.
2. Odessa
Odessa, DE, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
The historic homes and buildings in Odessa will certainly charm you. Check out the Cantwell's Tavern while you're there.
3. Frederica
Frederica, DE 19946, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/flickr
Frederica is a truly tiny rural Delaware town with just 700 or so residents. If you're hoping for peace and quiet, you'll certainly find it here.
4. Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach, DE, USA
faux_to/flickr
The seaside town of Rehoboth Beach is one of the most visited in the state, but it still retains its rural personality. Fewer than 1,500 people live here year-round.
5. Bowers
Bowers, DE, USA
Mike Mahaffie/flickr
The tiniest town on our list, Bowers is home to only about 330 people! In addition to its adorable little church, it's situated right on the water, making it true perfection for those looking for thoughtful solitude.

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6. Seaford
Seaford, DE 19973, USA
Levelhead/Wikipedia
The community of Seaford is home to around 7,000 folks and it certainly has the community feel. It took part in the Delaware Main Street Program, which has really revitalized the downtown area. We're sure you'll agree that it's one of the best rural towns in Delaware.
7. Milton
Milton, DE 19968, USA
Tim Kiser/Wikimedia
The pretty little town of Milton is just full of historic buildings, but only about 2,500 people live here so it certainly feels rural and quaint.
8. Selbyville
Selbyville, DE 19975, USA
Don Woods/Wikimedia
Even the public library is quaint and charming in Selbyville. This adorable town is also home to the oldest diner in the state, Doyle's Diner.
9. Delaware City
Delaware City, DE, USA
Smallbones/Wikimedia
The riverfront hamlet of Delaware City is very quaint with its little shops and cafes. It's also surrounded by beautiful, wild marshes.
10. Millville
Millville, DE, USA
Paul Luffel/flickr
Quiet and pastoral, Millville is a pretty rural town. This tiny town only has around 500 residents, so folks looking for farm living feel right at home here.

Are you lucky enough to live in one of these small towns in rural Delaware? If not, which one would you choose?

If small towns are wonderful, it stands to reason that small restaurants might be great, too! Take a look at these 9 extremely tiny restaurants.

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Rural Delaware

Danielle Schwartz | September 16, 2022

What is the oldest town in Delaware?

The oldest town in Delaware is Lewes. This gorgeous town is best known for its beaches and small-town charm. It's a great spot for beachgoing and spending time in the summer. Lewes was originally a Dutch settlement that was destroyed three times by different violent and disastrous events, including a battle with a Native American Tribe and a fire that the English set. Finally, the fourth version of the settlement lasted and eventually became the beautiful town of Lewes we have in Delaware today. You can enjoy the history of this fascinating place at the Zwaanendaal Museum and Zwaanendaal Park. The area all around you is stunningly beautiful, and you'll be glad to spend the whole day or weekend here.

What are the most charming small towns in Delaware?

The most charming small towns in Delaware are all over the state. If you're really looking for old-fashioned fun, head to Clayton, a tiny town with only one traffic light! It's got charm like you wouldn't believe, and it's a fantastic day trip to take with your family. Another little town that you'll love is Arden. It has a great art scene, so if you're a fan of going to the theater and concerts, this is an excellent destination. Do you love spending time right by the water? Check out Delaware City, where you can enjoy the view of the beautiful Delaware River. You can also experience all the cute shops and restaurants in the central area.

Are there any hidden gems in Delaware?

Absolutely, there are plenty of hidden gems in Delaware for you to explore when you're visiting or living here. If you love cajun food, make your way to Nora Lee's French Quarter Bistro in New Castle. It's a little taste of New Orleans in The First State. Looking for an outdoor getaway? Head over to Blackbird Creek Reserve in Townsend for a gorgeous water-based day. The creek is a lovely place to enjoy paddling along while you enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds you here.

 

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