Delaware has so many rivers, lakes, ponds and (of course!) beaches, and they all lend a peaceful, serene beauty to the First State. There are so many charming river towns in Delaware that are worth visiting now that the weather is beginning to break, particularly if you want to escape the busy lifestyle above the Canal. Whether you're looking for a place to stroll and catch some sunlight, or waterfront dining and shopping options, these 7 Delaware river towns will blow you away with their charm, hospitality, shopping and restaurants.

1. Milford

Downtown Milford is full of boutiques, great restuarants, excellent shopping and a charming riverwalk. The town takes pride in its history and charm, and you'll really enjoy the breeze coming off of the Mispillion River on a warm Spring day. If you're looking for something to eat, dine at Park Place or Abbott's.

2. Bowers

Bowers Beach is a town that formed right in between the Murderkill and St. Jones Rivers, and it's still very much a fishing town where life is simple. Strolling town and the beach is a great way to spend a warm day, and you can even grab fresh seafood right on the water at JP's on the Wharf. If you're not familiar with the little town of Bowers, you can read more about most charming, old fashioned river town in Delaware.

3. Laurel

Laurel is a town that's surrounded by natural beauty, from waterfront dining on Broad Creek to Trap Pond State Park. The town was once a native american settlement, then it became an important stop between Delaware and Maryland, as Broad Creek runs into the Nanticoke River, which empties into the Chesapeake Bay.

4. Seaford

Seaford is a fun town with a lot of history behind it, and some of the best waters to drop in if you're a kayaker. The Nanticoke River is beautiful, and on a nice day, it's an easy paddle for miles. There are a ton of dining options in this town, too - from Bon Appetite, which sevrves some of the best french cuisine in Delaware, to Davelli's Bagel Cafe, and everything in between. You'll enjoy strolling the town and stuffing your face as much as you'll enjoy the view of the Nanticoke River.

5. Milton

Milton is well known for being the home town of Dogfish Head, but downtown Milton is also one of the most charming river towns in Delaware. Governor's Walk and Governor's Walk Park are some of the best places to pass time on a beautiful day, and the views of the river are lovely year-round. There are plenty of dining options, from Irish Eyes to The Backyard, which is one of the most talked about restaurants in Delaware.

6. Lewes

What could I say about Lewes that hasn't been said before? If you aren't intimiately famliar with this town, you've been doing that whole "Delaware" thing wrong. Get down to the most charming, historic town in Delaware ASAP and enjoy the views of the canal from the canalfront park, try all of the incredible restuarants like Bethany Blues and Irish Eyes. There's so much to explore in Lewes that you'll need our Guide to the Charming Town of Lewes to make sure you don't miss anything.

7. Millsboro

Millsboro's main street is a hotspot for foodies and shoppers alike! Grab a bite to eat at the Country Kitchen in between searching for antiques at Antique Alley. You'll love the old-fashioned feel of this town, where life is still simple and everybody is warm and welcoming.

The First State is so charming, I almost can't stand it. There are hidden gems everywhere you look - from these charming river towns to the restuarants that serve amazing food despite looking quite simple, you really never know what you'll find in Delaware until you go exploring.