Delaware Has a Riverfront Town That Feels More European Than American

New Castle, Delaware, is a town marked by historic streets, Colonial architecture, and stately gardens. It has all the trappings of a classic New England town; so much so, in fact, that it feels a bit like the real England at times. Or perhaps even the Netherlands. Some of New Castle's most historic buildings date back to the 1600s, and much of the architecture has a decidedly European feel. The more you explore this riverfront town, the more Old World influence there is to uncover.

First, a little history. The Dutch settled what was then called Fort Casimir in the seventeenth century, although it had previously been called "Tomakonck" by the Indigenous People. The settlement grew and was eventually seized by the British in 1664 during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. During the following decades, the colony would change hands several times among the Swedes, the Dutch, and the British. Eventually, it became part of William Penn's colony and was renamed New Castle. For many years, it served as a hub for government, law, and transportation, thanks to its location near the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay. Eventually, economic and political activity moved elsewhere, but the historic charm remains today.

In fact, because New Castle saw such a quick economic decline, further development was hindered, and many of the historic homes and buildings you'll see there appear as they did in the Colonial and Federal periods—and this is all part of its charm!

If it's your first time visiting New Castle, be sure to begin your day at the Arsenal Visitor Center. It was built as part of Delaware's coastal defence in 1809, and today, it's home to the New Castle Historical Society. It's here you'll learn about the town's history, as well as its Dutch, Swedish, and British influences. Next, visit the famous Town Green, designed by Peter Stuyvesant in 1651. This European-style square is surrounded by Colonial-era buildings and will make you feel as though you've traveled back in time—and across the Atlantic!

Next, make a trip to see the Dutch House Museum, built in the late 1600s. It represents some of the earliest European building traditions in the U.S., and it's considered one of the single oldest homes in Delaware.

So much exploring is bound to work up an appetite, and fortunately, I've got a great recommendation for lunch: Jessop's Tavern. This casual pub, housed in an 18th-century building, offers diners the chance to enjoy Colonial- and European-inspired dishes, including Shepherd's pie and bread pudding. And don't miss the impressive selection of Belgian beers!

As you can see, there's so much to explore, so you might consider staying a night or two. One of the most unique accommodations in town is the Terry House Bed and Breakfast, circa 1860. Folks rave about the location, as well as the delicious breakfast served in the formal dining room.