DELAWARE - They call it "The First State," but for lottery players, it’s often the state of first-place finishes. Despite its small size, Delaware has a massive lottery footprint, and in 2026, certain retailers are standing out as absolute magnets for winning tickets. Whether you’re a local or just passing through on I-95, knowing where the "hot hands" are can make all the difference. From high-volume newsstands in Wilmington to legendary seaside stops in Sussex County, here are the luckiest places to play in Delaware right now.
New Castle County: The Volume Kings
New Castle County handles the bulk of Delaware’s lottery traffic, and two specific locations have become legendary for their frequent payouts.
- Books & News (Newark) Located on East Chestnut Hill Road, this shop is consistently ranked as a Top 10 retailer by the Delaware Lottery. It isn't just about volume; it’s about variety. This location has a history of selling big winning tickets for both Powerball and high-tier instant scratch-offs. According to recent 2026 data, it remains one of the most consistent hubs for "Top Tier" winners in the state.
- Fairfax News (Wilmington) If you’re in the Wilmington area, Fairfax News on Concord Pike is the place to go. It’s a classic newsstand vibe that has seen everything from five-figure Powerball winners to massive Lotto America payouts. It is a repeat offender on the "Big Winners" list, making it a favorite for "serial" players who believe in following the heat.
Kent County: The "Cigarette Outlet" Secrets
Central Delaware might be quieter, but its lottery retailers are anything but. The "luck" here tends to congregate around specialized tobacco and news shops that see high daily turnover of scratch-off tickets.
- Boxwood Books, News & Tobacco (Wilmington/Newport Area) While technically on the edge of the New Castle and Kent commuting lines, this spot has recently held the title of the #1 ranked lottery retailer in the state. It has become the premier destination for players looking for the newest scratch-off rolls and high-draw game volume.
- Mike’s Food Mart (Dover) In the state capital, Mike’s Food Mart has established itself as the luckiest corner in Kent County. It frequently appears in the official Winners Gallery for Play 3 and Play 4 wins, which are staples for the local Dover crowd.
Sussex County: The Seaside Staples
Down at the beach, the luck seems to blow in with the salt air. Large convenience chains and popular travel stops dominate the winning tallies here.
- Royal Farms #123 (Millsboro/Oak Orchard) This specific "RoFo" is a heavy hitter. It has a history of selling $1 million Powerball tickets and continues to be one of the highest-grossing—and winningest—locations in Southern Delaware. Its location makes it a magnet for both locals and those heading toward the inland bays.
- Wawa #834 (Lewes) You can’t talk about Delaware luck without mentioning Wawa. The Lewes location on Savannah Road is a frequent stop for vacationers, and that massive foot traffic has resulted in a staggering number of $50,000+ winning tickets over the last few years.
Delaware’s All-Time Luckiest "Grand Slam" Spots
If you’re hunting for a "Jackpot" legacy, these three spots have sold some of the largest tickets in Delaware history:
- Selbyville Goose Creek (Selbyville): The site of a massive $121.6 million Powerball win.
- Uncle Willies (Blades): Famous for a historic $214.7 million jackpot.
- Cutrona’s Liquors (Wilmington): The legendary location of a $50 million Powerball win.
The verdict is in: while any ticket can be a winner, these Delaware retailers have the track record to prove that lightning really does strike the same place twice.
