You've already seen the fun we had in Newark by night, but unlike the nocturnal college crowd who partied with us, we actually did spend time on Main Street by day as well. After a good rest, Errol and I went for a sunshine promenade to see what we would find. Our first stop, as per one of my weaknesses, was Aunt Margaret's Antique Mall.

Margaret's carries everything from antiques to vintage to collectibles, items for both fashion and function, all brought in by many different dealers. The main reason for my own personal attraction to antique stores, however...

Antique books! This place had rows upon rows of wonderful hard-cover clothbound books, all in great condition. I ended up purchasing "Poems of James Russell Lowell," dated 1898. Basically, it's so old, you can see the indentations on the pages where the letters were pressed. Now there is something of value!

Being in the center of a college town seems to bring in the more hip and unconventional clothing stores and other shops. Also lining the streets are a number of restaurants which are privately owned, enabling visitors break away from the chains. Sometimes it's nice to eat somewhere besides Applebees.

Everything's ready and waiting for happy hour! Klondike Kate's is as rich in history as it is in atmosphere. The site of the restaurant was in use back in 1737 under the name "Three Hearts Tavern," before changing hands many times and undergoing reconstruction.

The award for most awesome facade in town goes to the Newark Arts Alliance!

We'd get more closeup pictures of the art, but then you wouldn't need to go there to see it.

Another bonus about the town is its proximity to many of the nature centers we've already mentioned in earlier articles, like the Brandywine Valley and DuPont Environmental Ed. Center. You can get a hotel in Newark, go out for some kayaking or fishing, and then come back to a lively town with great dining and an active night-life. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, Newark is a great place to be.

Thanks again to the Marriott for our wonderful accommodations!

Written by Erik Yount. Photos by Errol Webber.