Last Minute Halloween Activities in Lewes, DE
Learn More About Lewes' Spooky History: Ghost Tours
October is flying by, and suddenly, Halloween is right around the corner! Whether you're looking for last-minute frights, festive fun, or charming autumn vibes, historic Lewes, Delaware, has plenty to offer. And the best part? It’s just an 85-minute scenic journey from Cape May, NJ, across the Delaware Bay on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry!
With its rich and fascinating history, Lewes, DE, truly comes alive in the fall. We’re here to make sure you don’t miss out on the best Halloween experiences before the witching hour passes!
Both of the twin capes are famous for a history of eerie occurrences. Cape May is known for being one of the most haunted towns in America, and Lewes (aka the first town in the first state), is a close contender, making it the perfect destination for ghost enthusiasts. Even though it’s last-minute, you can still find a spot on a thrilling tour!
Lewes Legends Evening Tour
Discover the stories of Lewes’ spooky history and get a look at the city’s most famous haunted spots on the Lewes Legends Evening Tour. You’ll hear tales of spirits, strange phenomena, and the town's eerie past. These tours run on Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Sundays through the end of October!
Haunting History: Paranormal Investigation Tour
For the dedicated paranormal enthusiasts, you don’t want to miss this experience. You’ll join the City of Lewes and First State Paranormal Investigations to learn about strange events from the area’s past, and you can decide for yourself whether spirits actually remain. This tour runs from October 31st to November 1st.
Book your spot to explore haunted history in Lewes now
Explore Haunted Places in Lewes, DE
Too late to book a reservation? We’ve got you covered with some places you can explore on your own. While Cape May has its Victorian ghosts, Lewes, Delaware, proudly claims the title of "The First Town in the First State"- and that comes with a LOT of history and a plethora of spooky legends. Its maritime past and Revolutionary War roots mean there are plenty of real haunts right near the ferry terminal!
The Cannonball House (Lewes Maritime Museum)
Arguably the most famous (or rather notorious) haunted attraction in Lewes, DE, The Cannonball House is a must-see for history and ghost buffs alike! This historic home, built in 1765, is named after the British cannonball still lodged in its foundation from the War of 1812. There have been numerous reports of mysterious footsteps, screams, and the lingering presence of Susan Rowland King, a woman who tragically died in the home after her skirt caught fire.
Cape Henlopen State Park's Lost Soldier
Just steps from the Lewes Ferry terminal, Cape Henlopen State Park is said to be haunted by a soldier near Tower 12. Visitors have reported sightings of his face in photos and videos. Find out more about the abandoned military bunkers at Cape Henlopen State Park.
The Mysterious Voice of the Burton-Ingram House
Step onto the Historic Lewes Town Campus and visit the Burton-Ingram House (c. 1785), a gorgeous piece of history that staff quickly realized had a permanent, non-paying resident. Though initially meant for historical exhibits, the house quickly gained a reputation after visitors frequently reported feeling unnerved. Look out for a man (or ghost) with a deep voice that won’t stop talking about “James.”
Find more haunted attractions in Lewes, DE here
Festive Fall & Halloween-Themed Experiences
Beyond the ghosts, Lewes offers plenty of charming and festive ways to celebrate the season, even towards the end of the month, and often without a reservation.
Trunk or Treat Events
The city of Lewes and surrounding areas offer a great variety of trunk or treat events, which offer a safe, family-friendly spot for Halloweeners to enjoy spooktacularly decorated vehicles, games, and, of course, lots of candy.
Find a trunk or treat in Lewes, DE
Get Lost in a Cornfield (For Fun!) at Hopkins Green Acres Farm
The spooky season is the perfect time to challenge your sense of direction in this nearly 5-acre labyrinth, custom-designed to celebrate the farm's iconic dairy heritage (look for the cow and ice cream cone design!). This corn maze is open for fall fun Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to get lost before the goblins come out on Halloween night!
Halloween-Themed Dining & Drinks
Many Lewes restaurants and bars embrace the Halloween spirit with plenty of decorations- sometimes even Halloween-themed cocktails and seasonal menus. Stroll through Downtown Lewes for a fun, decorated atmosphere and deliciously spooky decor. Even if you don’t
Shopping for Spooky Souvenirs
Browse Lewes' charming and quaint shopping scene, fit with unique boutiques and shops. Here, you’re guaranteed to find charming Halloween decor, witchy wears, and special autumn keepsakes so you can remember your trip.
See places to shop in Lewes, DE
Scenic Strolls & Fall Colors
Sometimes, the best last-minute plan is to simply soak in the atmosphere of autumn, with the crisp fall air and changing leaves providing a beautiful backdrop. Enjoy a walk along Downtown Lewes' charming, historic streets, where you can soak in the cozy atmosphere and admire the Halloween decorations.
Taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for the Perfect Spooky Day Trip
This iconic Ferry ride is more than just a journey- it's a memorable experience in itself! Featuring lido bars and famous orange crush cocktails, a food court, gift shop, breathtaking sunset views, opportunities to spot dolphins… the list goes on!
The Ferry is truly a unique blend of convenience and coastal charm, and the perfect way to pause your road trip and embrace the water. It's a vacation staple and a vital connection between the charming twin capes. Avoid the traffic congestion of the mid-Atlantic corridor and take a break from the ordinary on the Ferry.
Stress-Free Travel: Avoid I-95 traffic! The ferry provides a relaxing, scenic alternative, turning travel time into vacation time.
Walk-On or Drive-On: Whether you want to drive your car right into Lewes or enjoy a stroll-on experience and rely on local transportation and walks, the ferry accommodates your plans.
Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking Delaware Bay views, lighthouses, and perhaps even some dolphins, all while anticipating your Halloween fun.
Don't let Halloween sneak up on you! A spontaneous trip to Lewes via the Cape May-Lewes Ferry is the perfect way to get in some last-minute magic and frights into your holiday plans. Book your tickets today and prepare for the perfect spooktacular adventure!