As one of America’s thirteen original colonies, Delaware’s history goes back centuries. And while we love a good history lesson and a visit to any of our state’s famous historic sites as much as the next person, sometimes we would rather experience that history for ourselves, perhaps with a cold beer in our hand? Not only is Newark’s Deer Park Tavern one of the oldest bars in Delaware, but it’s also one of the most haunted.

Built in 1851 on the land where the remains of the burned down St. Patrick’s Inn had resided since 1747, it’s safe to say that the Deer Park Tavern is as historic as it gets. In the mid to late 1800s, this was considered one of the finest hotels on the east coast. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982, the Deer Park Tavern is also reported to be haunted.

Mathieu Plourde/Flickr

Though the Deer Park Tavern has been remodeled several times over the years, the basement was allegedly used as a stop along the Underground Railroad before the Civil War. Rumor also has it that Edgar Allen Poe wrote “The Raven” here, and according to local legend, he cursed the place after slipping in the mud outside.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

Reports of paranormal activity by the waitstaff include mysterious sounds on the stairs (which were closed off at the time) when opening or closing the bar, though, of course, no one was there. It is also said that the front doors would swing open as someone entered, but again, no one was there. Patrons have also reported a creepy sensation experienced by the bar.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, Deer Park Tavern is one of the best places on Newark’s Main Street to grab a drink — and it’s easy to see why.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

With live entertainment and drink specials, its patrons include University of Delaware students and staff as well as businesspeople and locals. From house wines and local beers to vodka mixed drinks and seasonal cocktails, there’s something for everyone at Deer Park Tavern.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

And the food, well, it’s exactly what you would expect from such an establishment. You’ll find a variety of burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and salads on the menu as well as tasty appetizers like the Philly cheesesteak queso dip and a cheese platter.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

Those in the know order the nachos. Topped with housemade chili, sour cream, spicy jalapenos, shredded lettuce, and of course, tomato, the “Los Grande Nachos” have been recognized as some of the best in Delaware.

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

From wine, beer, and scrumptious cocktails to tasty bar food, plenty of history and a few tales of the paranormal, Deer Park Tavern has it all. What more could you ask for?

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

 

Mathieu Plourde/Flickr

Deer Park Tavern/Facebook

Deer Park Tavern is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.

Have you ever been to this historic and haunted bar? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

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Address: 108 W Main St, Newark, DE 19711, USA