Bridgeville is a small town in Sussex County, Delaware, and is the oldest community in the western part of the county. Records date back to the mid-1800s, so there’s quite a bit of history to learn during a visit to the town.
With a population of over 2,000 people, visitors can rest assured of a quiet, relaxing holiday. But don’t let the area’s lack of crowds and remote feel lead you to believe you’re completely isolated; as part of the Maryland-Delaware metro area of Salisbury, Bridgeville is close to larger towns, including Rejo Boss Beach, Dover and Salisbury.
Bridgeville may be small, but it’s known for many things, including its agricultural roots, pretty tree-lined streets, outdoor recreation, and world-class golf courses. Bridgeville Mall and Downtown Alley are popular shopping areas.
One of the town’s annual events is the Apple-Scrapple Festival every October.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in and around Bridgeville, Delaware.
1. Find Treasures in Bridgeville, LLC’s Antique Alley
If you enjoy hunting for antiques on the go, Antique Alley, LLC in Bridgeville, LLC features 20,000 square feet of temperature-controlled antique shopping.
With over 65 suppliers and 125 booths, there are surprises around every corner. Collectibles, jewelry, children’s toys and furniture are just some of the items for sale. The price is good and it’s on sale often.
2. Enjoy home-cooked meals at Snappy’s Bar & Grille
Start your trip to Bridgeville with a hearty home-cooked meal in the casual setting of Snappy’s Bar & Grille. Known throughout the town and surrounding area, this restaurant offers delicious options including steaks, crab cakes and a range of burgers.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Snappy’s is said to have the best breakfast sandwiches in the state.
3. Visit the Ross Governor’s House
Nearby Seaford is home to the historic Governor Ross Building. Visitors to the area can learn about the history surrounding the hotel with guided tours by the Seaford Historical Society.
Built in the mid-1800s, this large brick mansion was home to William Henry Harrison Ross and his family. In addition to the mansion itself, the 20 acres are also home to slave quarters, granaries, stables and smokehouses.
4. Play a round of golf at the Heritage Shores Club
Rated as one of the best golf courses in the state, Heritage Shores Club offers more than a championship golf experience.
Designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, the 7,005-yard course is beautifully designed and challenging for all levels. Every tee is different, so every round is a new challenge. Golfers also have access to a driving range and short course. There are a variety of restaurants, lounges and classic country club facilities on site.
5. Bridgeville Historical Society Museum
The best way to learn about Bridgeville’s history is to visit the Bridgeville Historical Society Museum. The main purpose of the museum is to collect and preserve local history for future generations.
A lot of local history is stacked in this small museum, covering many aspects of the area’s past, including railroads, agriculture, and commerce. There are many artifacts on display, such as vintage clothing and organs.
6. Enjoy craft beer and premium food at Jeff’s Tap Room
A historic family-owned restaurant in Bridgeville, Jeff’s Tap Room combines a bar and grill with the town’s popular nightlife scene.
On the menu, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious options, including shrimp paste, steamed clams, scallops with bacon, seafood samplers, and a variety of appetizers, soups, sandwiches, and burgers. There are 21 craft beers to choose from.
7. Eat delicious food at TS Smith & Sons
TS Smith & Sons is the perfect midday stop when you need a break from exploring Bridgeville. This 800-acre farm is a family-run farm with the state’s oldest crop of apples, peaches and nectarines.
Other fruits and vegetables – including asparagus, sweet corn, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, squash and cantaloupe – are also grown on site. Enjoy some fresh cider doughnuts and a variety of jams and jellies, or grab some fresh produce and hit the road.
8. Visit the Federalsburg Historical Society and Museum
The Federalsburg Historical Society and Museum is housed in a historic and well-preserved building in nearby Federalsburg (Maryland). The main purpose of the museum is to collect and preserve the history of the town.
Residents have donated many items over the years; these are on display, telling the story of the town from its beginnings to the present. You’ll learn about the industry, events and the proud people who shaped this town. The Historicly Yours boutique is also on-site.
9. Spend the day outdoors at Martinak State Park
You don’t need to travel far from Bridgeville to enjoy a day of fun outdoors with a variety of exciting activities. Martinac State Park in nearby Denton (Maryland) is a beautiful natural area along the Choeptan River and Watts Creek.
Conservation is the focus and there is a boat on site with easy access to the waterway. Anglers have the opportunity to catch a variety of fish including catfish, bass and bass.
Visitors looking to spend the night in the park can use the modern camping area, and you’ll also find picnic areas with tables and playgrounds. As you walk through the park, you will find a nature center and several hiking trails through hardwood and pine forest areas.
10. Spend the day at Slaughter Beach
Slaughter Beach is a town with an interesting history, but it’s also known for its long, beautiful beach, perfect for beach walks. Bird watching is another popular activity in the area, and bird watchers hope to catch a glimpse of many different species. The slaughter beach is also an important area for horseshoe crabs and their survival.
11. Visit the Seaford Museum
The Seaford Museum in downtown Seaford is considered one of the best in Delaware. Equipped with state-of-the-art high-tech features, this beautiful building is a sight to behold in itself.
Volunteers skillfully and lovingly transform this historic post office into a must-see attraction; however, it’s what’s inside that familiarizes visitors with the town and its colorful past.
Thousands of artifacts are on display, focusing on various aspects of the town’s history, as well as the history of Delaware and the United States. Nanticoke Indians, local industry, agriculture and railroads are some of the displays you will see. There is also a handy gift shop.
12. Taste Italian Culture at Tony’s Pizza & Pasta
Visitors to Bridgeville can experience Italian culture and authentic Italian food without leaving town or county, because Tony’s Pizza & Pasta offers the best Italian flavors around.
This family-run restaurant is run by first-generation Italians who have been serving freshly prepared traditional dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere for over 20 years. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the extensive menu offers many choices, including Chicken Caciatorre, Penne Arrabbiata, Pesto and Tortellini.
A variety of appetizers, side dishes, soups and pizzas are also available. Everything is made with the highest quality ingredients and offers outdoor seating.
13. Wander the gardens and reserves of the Adkins Botanic Gardens
The central focus of the Adkins Arboretum near Ridgeley, Maryland, is to protect a variety of different habitats and educate the public about them. While exploring the 400 acres, visitors can see more than 600 species of plants in diverse environments, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows.
The hotel offers guided walks and a gift shop. Hikers and nature lovers can also enjoy 5 miles of trails that pass through a variety of habitats such as hardwood forests and pine forests. Wildlife including deer and foxes can be seen.
14. Explore Raiden State Forest
About an hour away from the town of Georgetown is a nature lover’s paradise, the Raiden State Forest. This is the largest forest in the state, with more than 12,400 acres of natural space to explore.
There are 44 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. As you walk through the area, you will spot many birds and pass through densely forested areas.
The park also features primitive campgrounds and catch and release fishing areas.
15. Sample locally made craft beers at Mispilion River Brewing
Located in Milford, Mispillion River Brewing offers visitors a comfortable, friendly place to relax and enjoy some great local beers.
Their unique branding will catch your eye at first, but it’s the wide range of beers – including Ladybug Rose Beer, Sausage Party Marzen and Space Otter Pale – that will appeal to your palette.
The beer is made on site, and you can watch the process through the tasting room’s large windows. Or visit for a closer personal experience.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Bridgeville (DE), Delaware
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