Bear. Delaware

Bear, DE

The small city of Bear got its name from a tavern located along U.S. Route 40 that boasted a huge picture of a bear. This once sleepy farming town south of Wilmington was known for its corn and cows, but today it's a popular residential and retail area. Most people commute or work in health care, finance or retail.

The Community of Bear

Bear sits at the junction of U.S. Route 40 and Delaware Route 7, just south of I-95. Most people live in the Kirkwood or Williamsburg areas to the east, or the Parkside area to the west. Being just 44 miles from Philadelphia, many people commute there or to nearby Wilmington.

What to Do in Bear

With lovely scenery, plenty of hiking trails and bike paths and space for horses, Lums Pond State Park is a great place to get back to nature. You can go camping or get in a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. Water lovers can kayak, fish and go boating. There's a lot to do just a couple miles from suburbia.

If you're afraid of heights, Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course is a place to conquer your fears. Climb, stretch, leap and take off on the speedy and fun zip lines high in the trees, all while connected safely to a harness.

Whether you've thought about trying rock climbing or you're already a pro, you'll have fun at the Delaware Rock Gym. Both roped climbing and bouldering (no ropes) are options in this 11,300-square-foot facility. The interesting steel frame design offers more flexibility and complexity than most climbing gyms.

One Place You Shouldn't Miss in Bear

If you'll be in Bear over the winter holidays, you should make plans to visit Santa Claus Lane, a highly decorated house that would make Clark Griswold from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation proud. Homeowners Rich and Linda Faucher estimate they spend $80,000 a year just lighting their display. Traffic past the house can get tangled so consider parking a couple blocks away and walking.

Dining in Bear

Whether you're visiting for the popular pub food or for the freshly brewed beers -- or both -- Stewart Brewing Company is the right destination. Amazing nachos, a cranberry duck burger and shrimp and grits are just a few things worth trying from their menu. When you're done with dinner, take part in a trivia contest or just watch the game on a bank of big screen TVs. "Hoppy" Hour and Sunday Brunch are popular times to go.

If you love noodles, Pho Nhu Vu is the place for you. Their Pho is phenomenal, and their other Vietnamese dishes get thumbs up for authenticity. You can also get the protein of your choice served over rice or vermicelli.