Fort Miles was built in 1938 during world war II as a fortress to protect  Delaware Bay and River from German warships in 1961. It was later named after Lieutenant General Nelson Miles in 1941. Part of the fort was a military recreational area for military families and helped boost the officers’ morale.

After the war, Fort Miles briefly became a research center; Later incorporated into cape Henlopen State Park in 1996 and managed by state park staff and the Fort Miles Historical Association. It is now a critical historical piece of The United States defense during world war II.

Today, fort miles is home to a museum exhibiting restored facilities, including an observation tower, a cantonment area, a series of gun batteries display ranging from 3″ to 16″ guns, and a restored series of gun battery 519. The park has many world war II gun batteries, observation towers, and underground bunkers existing and explorable.

The most interesting display is a 16″ gun mounted on a proof carriage below the entrance of battery 519. On display is the 12″ gun carriage mounted in battery 519; the display includes a mounted gun tub, carriage, and a functioning breach block. Entrance to battery 519 is only by a guided tour.

If you are a historical enthusiast, visit fort miles and learn about The United States’ history and Delawares’ role in world war II. You can visit as a family or group, take a guided tour, an interpretive program, and visit the art gallery. 

Climb the concrete spotting tower and enjoy the scenic view of the seascape surrounding area. You can also have a special event at the park. Whenever you are in Lewes, go to Fort Miles with a curious mind to learn and carry your camera along to make memories through pictures and videos.

19 min (11.7 miles)
via U.S. 9 E
Fastest route, the usual traffic
Backyard Works Inc
26822 Lewes Georgetown Hwy, Harbeson, DE 19951, United States

Continue to U.S. 9 E
29 s (459 ft)

Follow U.S. 9 E to Cape Henlopen Dr in Lewes
16 min (9.5 mi)

Continue on Cape Henlopen Dr. Take Dune Rd to Cape Henlopen State Park
5 min (2.1 mi)
Fort Miles Historical Area
15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958, United States

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Cape May Lewes Ferry
Lewes, DE