Middletown—once known for little more than farmland, the Old-Tyme Peach Festival and its claim to fame as the filming location of Dead Poets Society—is now a bustling town with plenty to do.
For prospective day-trippers to the New Castle County town, there’s plenty to do right in town or a short drive away. Take a look at our guide, then plan your own ideal trip to Middletown.
Don’t forget to tag us (@delawaretodaymagazine) on Instagram if you visit any of these spots!
8 a.m. – Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Manhattan Bagel
Middletown is home to plenty of trendy chains, and Manhattan Bagel is one that’s worth the visit. Grab a bagel or breakfast sandwich and a coffee to get the day started.
Manhattan Bagel | 400 West Main Street, Middletown
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10 a.m. – Do some shopping around town
From niche hobby havens to trendy boutiques to an expansive farmers market, Middletown boasts a diverse and lively shopping scene. Start by exploring the aisles at Dutch Country Farmers Market, where you’ll find Amish snacks and baked goods, furniture and home decor, cheeses and much more. For hobbyists, peruse collectibles, cards, games and more at Born to Game and Destination Anime. Plus, local boutiques like F+L Boutique offer trendy styles.
Dutch Country Farmers Market | 701 North Broad Street, Middletown
Born to Game | 821 North Broad Street, Middletown
Destination Anime | 1 Broad Street, Middletown
F+L Boutique | 25 West Main Street, Middletown
12 p.m. – Grab lunch at Taco Reho
The Rehoboth Beach taco and burrito hotspot opened a second location in Middletown, and it’s the perfect place to stop for lunch. The rock-centric decor and mouthwatering tacos make for the perfect midday refuel.
Taco Reho Middletown | 100 Sandhill Drive, Middletown
@delawaretodaymagazine If you haven’t visited Taco Reho’s Middletown location yet, this is your sign! #fyp #foodie #delaware #middletownde
12 p.m. – Unleash your inner artist at Your Creation Station
This paint-your-own pottery studio is a great stop to make after lunch. Choose from a selection of drinkware, dishes, planters and more to customize. Once your unique design is finished, the studio will fire it, then you can return later to pick up your one-of-a-kind ceramic project.
318 East Main Street, Middletown
2 p.m. – Spend the afternoon enjoying craft brews and light bites
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Middletown is a must-visit hidden gem in the Delaware brewery scene. One of Delaware’s two Crooked Hammock locations is in Middletown. Volunteer Brewing Company is on the town’s Main Street. First State Brewing Company is also a Middletown staple with brews you won’t want to miss out on, and JAKL Beer Works is just a bit further down Patriot Drive. If you work up an appetite, don’t worry! Some of these breweries also have impressive food menus with plenty of snacking options.
Crooked Hammock | 316 Auto Park Drive, Middletown
First State Brewing Company | 109 Patriot Drive, Middletown
JAKL Beer Works | 128 Patriot Drive, Suite 11, Middletown
Volunteer Brewing Company | 116 West Main Street, Middletown
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4:30 p.m. – Head to Camp Adventureland for axe throwing and escape rooms
End your beer trail adventures at JAKL or First State Brewing Company to place yourself in the same neighborhood as Camp Adventureland. Throw axes or knives at targets to get into the competitive spirit. Or, work together trying to solve your way out of an escape room. No matter which experiences you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.
Camp Adventureland | 112 Patriot Drive, Suite C, Middletown
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6:30 p.m. – Indulge in an upscale dinner at Lore Modern Woodfyre
Located within St. Anne’s Golf Club, Lore offers upscale entrees, thoughtful cocktails and a diverse menu with something for everyone. The dinner menu includes oysters on the half shell, wood-fired pizzas and entrees like braised short ribs, sweet potato gnocchi and much more.
Lore Modern Woodfyre | 1100 St Anne’s Boulevard, Middletown
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7:30 p.m. – Catch a show at Middletown’s historic Everett Theatre
The interior of this historic theater might look familiar—it was featured in the 1989 film, Dead Poets Society. From live performances and film screenings to special events, there’s always something happening at The Everett. Check online for a schedule and tickets for upcoming events and screenings.
The Everett | 47 West Main Street, Middletown
9:30 p.m. – Head to Sully’s Irish Pub for a nightcap
Enjoy the classic Irish bar atmosphere at Sully’s. Grab a beer or a cocktail and wind down after a fun-filled day.
12 W Main St, Middletown
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Related: What to Do in Milton: A Day Trip Guide to the Home of Dogfish Head
