Local guide for new residents
Your Southern Delaware local guide
Moving is more than a new house. Here are the places my buyers ask about most once they get the keys: award-winning restaurants, where to shop and work out, trusted home-service companies, and the fun stuff, from Lewes and Rehoboth to Bethany, Millsboro, Seaford and Dover.
Restaurants
Readers' choice winners from Lewes to Dover, plus everyday local favorites.
30 listingsGrocery stores
Supermarkets, organic markets, butchers, seafood and farm stands.
15 listingsGyms & fitness
Full gyms, YMCAs, cycling, barre, Pilates and yoga.
10 listingsShopping & outlets
Tanger Outlets, boutiques, books, home decor, furniture and antiques.
14 listingsCar dealerships
Local dealers along Route 1, Route 113 and Route 13.
8 listingsMoving companies
Local and long-distance movers, plus tips for booking.
4 listingsHouse cleaning
Award-winning cleaners, carpet care and restoration.
4 listingsLandscaping & lawn
Landscapers, lawn care, hardscaping and tree service.
6 listingsHVAC
Heating and cooling service and maintenance plans.
6 listingsPlumbers
Award-winning plumbers and 24/7 service.
6 listingsThings to do
Beaches and state parks, theaters, museums, wineries and racing.
20 listingsNew resident essentials
DMV, utilities, internet, hospitals and county offices.
15 listingsAreas covered
- Lewes, Rehoboth, Dewey & Milton
- Bethany, Ocean View, Fenwick & Selbyville
- Millsboro, Long Neck & Georgetown
- Seaford, Laurel & Bridgeville
- Milford, Dover & Kent County
Picks come from 2025 and 2026 readers' choice awards where noted, plus long-standing local favorites. No business paid to be listed and I'm not affiliated with any of them. Hours, locations and services change, so call ahead, and for home services confirm licensing and insurance and get more than one quote. Updated October 2026. Sources: Delaware Today Best of Delaware 2026, Coastal Style Best of 2025 (Sussex County), Delaware State Parks.
Let's talk
Moving to Southern Delaware?
Tell me where you're moving from and what matters most. I'll help you find the right community, and I'm happy to share more local favorites.
