Sussex County Lifestyle

Arts • Culture • History

Sussex County Lifestyle

Featured Local Story

The Broadkill Store

A living piece of Delaware beach history, welcoming generations of families to the quiet shores of Broadkill Beach.

Broadkill Beach • Milton, Delaware

A Place Where Time Slows Down

There are very few places left where stepping through the front door feels like stepping back in time. The Broadkill Store at Broadkill Beach is one of those rare treasures.

For more than a century, this beloved gathering place has welcomed generations of families, fishermen, beachgoers, birdwatchers, nature lovers and visitors looking to experience the quiet charm that makes Broadkill Beach so special.

While Delaware's beach communities have grown tremendously over the years, the Broadkill Store has remained a reminder of a simpler time—a place where memories are made and traditions continue.

Historic Broadkill Store at Broadkill Beach Delaware
The Broadkill Store has been part of the Broadkill Beach story for generations.
Through the Generations

A Building Rich in History

Long before it became the neighborhood market everyone knows today, the building played a role in the area's wartime history.

During World War II, the building was part of the Army barracks associated with the military presence along Delaware's coast.

By the 1950s, the building was known as a dance hall, bringing local residents and vacationers together for evenings of music, dancing and community.

Over time, the building evolved into the beach store that generations of Broadkill families know and love today.

“Walking into the Broadkill Store still feels like stepping back into a simpler time.”
Broadkill Beach • Delaware Bay
Preserving the Past

The Charm Is Still Here

Walk through the door today and visitors immediately notice something special.

The old-fashioned floors, shelves and timeless character of the building look much as they did decades ago.

Rather than modernizing away its personality, the store has preserved many of the details that make it unique.

And that is exactly why people return.

They come because the Broadkill Store feels authentic. It connects today's families with generations who vacationed, fished and spent their summers along these same quiet shores.

Original interior of the Broadkill Store
The old floors, shelves and simple interior are part of the store's unmistakable charm.
A Favorite Beach Tradition

More Than Just a Store

The Broadkill Store has always been much more than a place to pick up supplies. It is part beach market, part café, part fishing stop and part community gathering place.

Pizza donuts and ice cream at the Broadkill Store

A Taste of Summer

Ice cream, pizza and donuts have become part of the Broadkill experience. For many families, stopping at the store for a favorite treat is simply part of a day at the beach.

Broadkill Store clothing souvenirs and beach supplies

Take Home a Little Broadkill

Beach gear, clothing, fishing bait and special souvenirs allow visitors to pick up what they need—or take home something that reminds them of their time at this special beach.

Ice Cream  •  Pizza  •  Donuts  •  Fishing Bait  •  Beach Gear  •  Clothing  •  Souvenirs
Mike and Tina Hilligoss at the Broadkill Store
Mike and Tina Hilligoss, and a few other owners, have helped carry on the Broadkill Store tradition for today's generation.
The People Behind the Store

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Current owners Mike and Tina Hilligoss know the Broadkill community as only people who grew up here can.

Through the years, they have watched children become parents and parents become grandparents, all returning to Broadkill Beach and making another visit to the store.

They have heard countless stories from people who remember coming here as children, spending summers in nearby cottages, fishing on Delaware Bay and stopping at the store with their families.

After years of caring for this beloved landmark, Mike, Tina and a few other Broadkill Beach owners have made the difficult decision to sell the store.

Their greatest hope is not simply to find a buyer—but to find someone who appreciates what makes the Broadkill Store so special and wants to carry its tradition forward.

Between the Bay & the Marsh

A Hidden Gem on Delaware Bay

The Broadkill Store sits in one of the most unique locations along Delaware's coast.

Just Steps From Broadkill Beach

Just steps from the store is the quiet public beach along Delaware Bay, where families enjoy swimming, shell collecting, fishing, kayaking and beautiful sunrises over the water.

Nature at Your Doorstep

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Across the way lies the breathtaking Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge, known for peaceful marshes, migrating birds, abundant wildlife and unforgettable sunsets.

Here, visitors experience something increasingly rare along the coast—quiet surroundings, natural beauty and a true connection with the landscape.

Broadkill Beach feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk and larger resort towns.

This peaceful atmosphere is exactly what makes this hidden corner of Sussex County so special.

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge near Broadkill Beach Delaware
Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge provides a spectacular natural backdrop to the Broadkill Beach community.
The Next Chapter

Looking Toward the Future

The sale of the Broadkill Store creates a unique opportunity for a new owner to become the steward of something much bigger than simply a building or business.

Ideally, the next owners will continue the beloved beach market while finding thoughtful ways to build upon its traditions.

The store offers many exciting possibilities for its next chapter while remaining a hub for the Broadkill Beach community.

Continue the traditional Broadkill beach market
Expand the café and food offerings
Add inviting outdoor seating
Host community gatherings and special events
Showcase local artists and coastal makers
Create a unique destination restaurant

Whatever vision the future brings, the hope is that the next owners will honor the history, preserve the character and continue welcoming visitors with the same warmth that has defined the Broadkill Store for generations.

Broadkill Store at Broadkill Beach Milton Delaware
A Place Worth Preserving

More Than a Store

The Broadkill Store is more than a convenience store. It is a landmark, a meeting place, a memory maker and a symbol of everything that makes Broadkill Beach so special.

As one chapter comes to a close and another begins, the community hopes this treasured landmark will continue welcoming families, vacationers, fishermen, birdwatchers, nature lovers and beach lovers for many years to come.

Some places deserve to be preserved—not only for their history, but for the memories they continue to create every single day.

Broadkill Beach • Milton, Delaware

Explore More of Coastal Sussex County

Art • Culture • History • Music • Coastal Life

Discover historic towns, inspiring local artists, live theatre, outdoor concerts and the creative spirit that makes coastal Delaware such a wonderful place to live and visit.

The Creative Coast

Discover the Heart and Soul of Sussex County


Life at the Delaware Beaches is about much more than sand and surf. Throughout Sussex County, historic streets, local galleries, performing arts venues, museums, festivals and waterfront concerts create a rich coastal lifestyle filled with beauty, creativity and community.

Coastal Heritage

Historic Towns to Explore


Wander through tree-lined streets, visit local museums and experience the stories that shaped southern Delaware.

Historic Lewes, Delaware 01

Lewes

Founded in 1631, Lewes is known as the “First Town in the First State.” Its maritime heritage comes alive through historic homes, waterfront streets, museums and beautifully preserved landmarks.

Historic Milton, Delaware 02

Milton

Located along the scenic Broadkill River, Milton combines Victorian architecture, shipbuilding history and small-town charm with galleries, shops, festivals and a thriving community of artists.

Historic Georgetown, Delaware 03

Georgetown

Sussex County’s historic county seat is centered around The Circle. Visitors can explore local architecture, museums, government landmarks and the celebrated Return Day tradition.

Lewes Historical Society
Living History

Lewes Historical Society

Explore the people, buildings and maritime traditions of Delaware’s oldest town. Historic properties, exhibitions, walking tours and special events bring centuries of Lewes history to life.

  • Historic homes and preserved buildings
  • Guided walking tours and local stories
  • Museums, exhibits and community programs
Milton Historical Society
River Town Heritage

Milton Historical Society

Discover Milton’s fascinating past as a nineteenth-century shipbuilding center. The town’s museums, historic district and preserved Victorian architecture reflect its connection to the Broadkill River.

  • Milton’s shipbuilding history
  • Victorian homes and historic architecture
  • Local exhibits, lectures and special events
Art Along the Coast

Galleries and Art Centers


Meet local artists, browse original coastal artwork and discover classes and exhibitions throughout Sussex County.

Rehoboth Art League
Featured Art Destination

Rehoboth Art League

Founded in 1938, the Rehoboth Art League is one of Delaware’s premier arts organizations. Its beautiful wooded campus features multiple galleries, artist studios, rotating exhibitions and nationally recognized outdoor art festivals.

  • Gallery exhibitions and artist studios
  • Painting, drawing and fine-craft classes
  • Outdoor Fine Art and Fine Craft Show

Milton Art Guild

A welcoming downtown art center featuring exhibitions, workshops, classes and work by local and regional artists.

Mispillion Art League

Gallery exhibitions, artist demonstrations, educational programs and opportunities for artists throughout the region.

Gallery One

Original paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, glass art and handcrafted gifts by regional artists.

Peninsula Gallery

A Lewes gallery representing respected Mid-Atlantic artists through monthly exhibits, sculpture and contemporary works.

Raye of Light Studio Gallery

Original artwork, handcrafted jewelry, pottery and coastal-inspired gifts in a charming Lewes setting.

Local Studios and Artisan Markets

Discover independent artists, seasonal markets, open studios and handcrafted treasures throughout Sussex County.

Seasonal Inspiration

Outdoor Art Shows and Festivals

Coastal Delaware’s art festivals bring painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelers and fine-craft artists together in beautiful outdoor settings.

Rehoboth Beach Arts Festival

A springtime celebration featuring original art, photography, jewelry, ceramics and fine crafts.

Outdoor Fine Art & Fine Craft Show

The Rehoboth Art League’s nationally recognized summer show features more than 100 artists and artisans.

Milton Art Guild Exhibitions

Rotating exhibitions and special events highlight artists working in many different mediums.

Mispillion Seasonal Shows

Juried exhibitions, member shows, demonstrations and educational art programs throughout the year.

Local Craft Fairs

Seasonal markets feature pottery, woodworking, fiber art, paintings, jewelry and coastal-inspired crafts.

Community Art Events

Explore pop-up galleries, studio tours, art walks and creative programs across Sussex County.

On Stage

Theatre and Performing Arts


From Broadway-style productions to concerts under the stars, Sussex County offers entertainment for every generation.

Milton Theatre

Milton Theatre

Originally opened in 1910, the restored Milton Theatre presents concerts, tribute bands, comedy, family entertainment and nationally touring performers.

Clear Space Theatre Company

Clear Space Theatre Company

Located in Rehoboth Beach, Clear Space presents musicals, plays, concerts, children’s productions and educational programs for aspiring performers.

Freeman Arts Pavilion

Freeman Arts Pavilion

This popular open-air venue near Fenwick Island welcomes nationally recognized musicians, dancers, orchestras and family performers.

Possum Point Players

Possum Point Players

Sussex County’s long-running community theatre presents comedies, dramas and musicals while supporting local performers and volunteers.

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
Summer Soundtrack

Free Outdoor Music by the Coast

Bring a beach chair, gather with friends and enjoy live music in some of Sussex County’s most beautiful community settings.

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand

Free summer concerts featuring tribute bands, jazz, rock, country and family entertainment.

Bethany Beach Bandstand

Concerts, family programs, movies and seasonal entertainment in the heart of Bethany Beach.

Milton Sounds of Summer

Live performances beside the Broadkill River at beautiful Milton Memorial Park.

Lewes Summer Concerts

Seasonal community music in waterfront and park settings throughout historic Lewes.

Dewey Beach

Beach-town music, live outdoor performances and entertainment near the bay and ocean.

Freeman Arts Pavilion

Select free community concerts and family performances complement its ticketed season.

Live Creatively

Experience the Culture of Coastal Delaware

Whether you are admiring local artwork, walking through a historic town, attending a live performance or listening to music beneath the summer sky, Sussex County offers memorable ways to connect with the people and places that make the Delaware Beaches special.

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