The Ruins of Fort Miles

In the shadow of the tall observation towers that line the Cape, Henlopen Coast lies abandoned World War II ruins at Fort Miles Historic Area, which is open for exploration year-round. Visit 1940s bunkers and batteries, see machine guns up close, and even climb a tower to relive the area’s involvement in the Second World War. It’s truly an incredible experience for anyone interested in the history of the Delmarva region. Although funds to build the fort were approved in 1934, it was 1938 before construction began on the fort.

As the primary fort of the Harbor Defenses of Delaware, it was built to defend Delaware Bay and the Delaware River and to protect domestic shipping from the enemy fire between Cape May and Cape Henlopen, particularly from the German surface fleet. The fort also operated a controlled underwater minefield to prevent ships from entering the Delaware River estuary. Walking tours of the bunkers and other facilities currently being restored are available during the summer. The project falls under the purview of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. Historic interpreters can be seen at the park during special events. These events are designed to give the public a demonstration of military life at Fort Miles when it was still in operation.

Location: 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958, USA

Website: https://fortmilesha.org/

Distance from Delaware: 35 miles

Travel time: 1 hour

Tel: 1 302-644-5007

Fee: $10 per person

Hour: 10:00 AM - 16:00 PM

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