A Drive from Bridgeville, Delaware to North East, Maryland: Five Unexpected Places to Stop

Driving can be a fun and relaxing way to take in the beauty of the Eastern Shore. The route from Bridgeville, Delaware to North East, Maryland covers about 100 miles and can take about two hours, depending on traffic. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. Here are five unexpected places to add to your itinerary.

Halfway Point: Smyrna, DE

Smyrna, Delaware is the halfway point on the drive from Bridgeville to North East. While it may not seem like the most exciting place to stop, it’s worth taking a break and exploring this charming town. One highlight is the Duck Creek Greenway, a 14-mile trail that runs along the creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are also several historic buildings in town, including the Old Smyrna Schoolhouse and the Smyrna Opera House. For lunch, head to Sheridan’s Irish Pub for a delicious sandwich and a pint of Guinness.

1. Delaware City, DE

Located on the Delaware River, about 20 miles south of Wilmington, Delaware City is a hidden gem. The town was a strategic military location during the Civil War and has a rich history that can be explored at the Fort Delaware State Park. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the fort, which served as a prison for Confederate soldiers. For lunch, try the Chesapeake Crab Cake Sandwich at Crabby Dick’s, a local favorite.

2. Aberdeen, MD

Aberdeen, Maryland is home to the Aberdeen Proving Ground, a military base that dates back to World War I. The base is not open to the public, but visitors can explore the Aberdeen Room Archives and Museum, which has exhibits on the town’s history and military past. For lunch, check out the Railroad Room, a train-themed restaurant that serves delicious burgers and hot dogs.

3. Havre de Grace, MD

Located at the mouth of the Susquehanna River, Havre de Grace is a picturesque town that’s worth a visit. The town has a rich maritime history and is home to the Concord Point Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operated lighthouse on the East Coast. Visitors can take a tour of the lighthouse and climb to the top for stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay. For lunch, grab a crab cake at Laurrapin Grille, a farm-to-table restaurant that’s earned rave reviews.

4. Perryville, MD

Perryville, Maryland is a small town on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The town’s most famous landmark is the Perryville Railroad Museum, which features exhibits on the history of the railroad and its impact on the town. Visitors can also take a walk along the boardwalk and enjoy views of the bay. For lunch, try the crab bisque at Backfin Blues Bar & Grill, a waterfront restaurant that’s popular with locals.

5. Elk Neck State Park, MD

Elk Neck State Park is a hidden gem located at the southern tip of the Elk Neck Peninsula. The park offers miles of hiking trails, as well as swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. One of the highlights of the park is the Turkey Point Lighthouse, which offers views of the Chesapeake Bay and the surrounding countryside. For a picnic lunch, pack a sandwich and enjoy the peace and quiet of the park.

Conclusion

While there are plenty of well-known attractions along the Eastern Shore, sometimes the best experiences are the unexpected ones. From exploring historic towns to enjoying the beauty of nature, there’s something for everyone on this drive from Bridgeville, Delaware to North East, Maryland. So, pack a picnic, grab your camera, and hit the road for a fun and memorable adventure.