Looking for a fun way to shake up your routine with the kids, no matter the season? Whether it feels a little too chilly for water parks or you just want a break from the beach and splashing in the waves, there are still plenty of kid‑friendly activities at and around the Delaware Beaches, and the Cape May – Lewes Ferry has your ticket to a fun and exciting family adventure! Check out our list of things to do in Lewes, DE with kids below and we’ll see you on board.
Cape May - Lewes Ferry
Cape May, NJ Terminal: 1200 Lincoln Blvd., North Cape May, NJ 08204.
Lewes, DE Terminal: 43 Cape Henlopen Dr., Lewes, DE 19958
Start your family adventure with a ride on the Cape May – Lewes Ferry, the most scenic and stress‑free way to cross the Delaware Bay and get to all these kid‑friendly activities. With spacious decks, indoor lounges, and plenty of room to roam, kids can burn off energy while parents relax and enjoy the coastal views. Onboard amenities often include snacks, drinks, and entertainment, turning your transportation into part of the fun. Whether you’re planning a day trip to Lewes or exploring more of Delaware’s beaches and attractions, the ferry makes getting there easy, memorable, and great for kids from the very first mile.
Cape Henlopen State Park and its Seaside Nature Center
15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958
Whether on foot or on a bike (they travel free, too!), Cape Henlopen State Park provides miles of opportunity for exploration. Its Seaside Nature Center is an awesome stop for families, with touch tanks, local marine life exhibits, and kid‑friendly displays that bring the Delaware coast to life! It’s an easy, educational break between beachside hikes and bike rides to help your kids burn off energy, and a great addition to your list of things to do in Lewes, DE with kids while exploring beautiful Cape Henlopen State Park. Located just under two miles from the Lewes terminal, it’s a convenient must‑do for families traveling through the area.
Lewes Beach
Bay Avenue, Lewes, DE 19958
Lewes Beach is a wonderfully calm, family‑friendly stretch of shoreline with gentle waves, soft sand, and shallow water that’s perfect for younger kids to wade, splash, and play. With lifeguards in season, convenient restrooms, a snack stand, and parking just steps from the sand, it’s a can’t‑miss stop for families looking for fun things to do in Lewes, DE with kids before or after their Cape May – Lewes Ferry ride.
Shell We Bounce Trampoline Park
32295 Lewes-Georgetown Highway (Rt. 9), Lewes, DE 19958
Trampolines. Arcades. A kid-zone featuring an enclosed playground and jungle gym. Dodgeball. Slam dunk basketball. Shell We Bounce, located just 5 miles from the Lewes terminal, has everything you need for a day of indoor-fun.
Hopkins Farm Creamery
18186 Dairy Farm Road, Lewes, DE 19958
Ice cream lovers, rejoice! Hopkins Farm Creamery, located on one of the largest working dairy farms in the state of Delaware, is just 15 minutes from the terminal and offers a one-of-a-kind ice cream experience you have to experience for yourself. In addition to a huge selection of award-winning ice cream at their family-friendly restaurant, they also offer tours of the farm and can host parties and events.
Zwaanendael Museum
102 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE 19958
The Zwaanendael Museum is a kid‑friendly history stop in downtown Lewes, with shipwreck artifacts, maritime exhibits, and eye‑catching displays that keep visits short and engaging. It’s an easy add to your list of things to do in Lewes, DE with kids, especially when paired with a stroll through nearby parks, shops, and restaurants.
Lewes Public Library
111 Adams Ave, Lewes, DE 19958
The Lewes Public Library is a cozy, kid‑friendly spot that offers storytimes, activity programs, and a welcoming children’s area full of books and games. It’s a perfect indoor break from the bike rides or a rainy‑day backup when you still want something fun and educational to do in Lewes, DE with kids. Just a short drive from the Lewes terminal, it’s an easy stop to add to your family’s itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lewes family-friendly?
Yes, Lewes is a very family-friendly town, with calm bay beaches, parks, museums, and plenty of dining options that work well for kids. For an overview of what makes it so appealing to visitors of all ages, take a look at Explore Lewes, which highlights many of the area’s family-friendly spots.
Which beach is better, Rehoboth or Lewes?
For quieter shores and gentle waves, Lewes Beach is ideal, while Rehoboth suits families looking for a livelier boardwalk scene with rides and arcades. For visitors coming from New Jersey, a smooth trip across the Delaware Bay via the Cape May – Lewes Ferry can take you directly to Lewes for your next fun beach day.
What is Lewes Delaware known for?
Lewes may be small in size, but it delivers big on coastal character, charm, and must-do activities perfect for families and solo travelers alike. As “The First Town in the First State,” this historic bayfront community offers walkable streets, waterfront views, and plenty of ways to slow down and soak in Delaware’s story.
What activities in Lewes, DE are best for the summer?
Summer in Lewes is ideal for day trips and weekend getaways filled with beach time at Lewes Beach, biking and nature trails in Cape Henlopen, and kid-friendly stops like ice cream shops and mini-golf nearby.
What activities in Lewes, DE are best for the winter?
In winter, families enjoy peaceful walks along the bay, visits to museums and Cape Henlopen’s nature center, plus festive holiday events and lights around town. To make cooler days feel special, the Where To Capture Fall and Winter Sunset guide highlights beautiful seasonal views you can enjoy together.
How long is a ferry ride to Lewes?
The trip across the Delaware Bay typically takes about 85 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the views with your crew. You can check current schedules and book a ferry ride that lines up with your plans.
