Wilmington DelawareATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wilmington, Delaware.
1. Nemours Estate
HISTORIC CHATEAU-INSPIRED MANSION
Nemours Estate is a historic estate featuring a French chateau-inspired mansion with self-guided tours and a private bowling alley. Visitors can explore the manicured gardens adorned with sculptures and a reflective pool. The estate offers a shuttle service to help guests navigate the vast grounds.
2. Hagley Museum And Library
DUPONT FAMILY LEGACY
Hagley Museum And Library reveals the historic legacy of the DuPont family and their gunpowder production business. The site features guided tours of the heritage home and gardens that showcase the family's influence on American industry. Visitors can experience live demonstrations that bring the past to life.
3. Wilmington Riverwalk
SCENIC WATERFRONT PATH
The Wilmington Riverwalk winds its way downtown from the DuPont Environmental Education Center alongside the picturesque Delaware and Christina Rivers. This waterfront promenade offers stunning views and numerous dining options to tempt visitors' palates. The Riverwalk serves as a central attraction connecting many of Wilmington's downtown highlights.
4. Grand Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Grand Opera House is a historic performance venue in downtown Wilmington that hosts a variety of shows and cultural events. This beautifully preserved theater features stunning architecture and excellent acoustics that enhance every performance. Visitors can enjoy everything from Broadway shows to symphony concerts in this iconic Wilmington landmark.
5. Delaware Art Museum
ART AND SCULPTURE GARDEN
The Delaware Art Museum houses an impressive collection of American art and illustrations spanning multiple centuries. Visitors can wander through the museum's sculpture garden, which features beautiful outdoor art installations set among lush landscapes. The museum is particularly known for its Pre-Raphaelite collection and works by Wilmington native Howard Pyle.
6. Wilmington and Western Railroad
HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEY
The Wilmington and Western Railroad offers visitors a chance to ride vintage trains through the scenic Red Clay Valley. This historic railroad operates both steam and diesel locomotives on a heritage line dating back to the 19th century. Special themed excursions are available throughout the year, including holiday trains and dinner service experiences.
7. Rockwood Park & Museum
VICTORIAN MANSION GARDENS
Rockwood Park & Museum features a preserved Gothic Revival mansion surrounded by picturesque gardens and wooded paths. The estate provides visitors with a glimpse into late 19th-century upper-class life through its period furnishings and decor. The surrounding park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events for the public to enjoy.
8. Delaware Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE FAMILY LEARNING
The Delaware Children's Museum offers hands-on exhibits and educational play spaces designed specifically for children and families. Interactive displays encourage experimentation with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a fun, engaging environment. The museum's waterfront location along the Riverwalk makes it an accessible stop during a day of exploring Wilmington.
9. Mount Cuba Center
NATIVE PLANT GARDENS
Mount Cuba Center is a botanical garden specializing in native plant species of the Piedmont region. Visitors can unwind while exploring the meticulously maintained gardens featuring wildflowers, shrubs, and trees indigenous to the eastern United States. Educational programs and guided tours help guests appreciate the importance of native plants in supporting local ecosystems.
10. DuPont Environmental Education Center
URBAN WILDLIFE REFUGE
The DuPont Environmental Education Center serves as the gateway to the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge along the Christina River. The center offers educational exhibits about local ecosystems and wildlife found in the adjacent 212-acre freshwater tidal marsh. Visitors can enjoy bird watching from the observation deck or explore the area via boardwalks and trails.
11. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
PREMIER AMERICAN DECORATIVE ARTS
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library houses one of the most important collections of American decorative arts in the country, displayed across 175 period rooms. The 1,000-acre estate includes a 60-acre naturalistic garden designed by founder Henry Francis du Pont. Visitors can explore the mansion through guided tours and enjoy seasonal displays throughout the meticulously preserved property.
12. Delaware Museum of Nature and Science
NATURAL HISTORY EXPLORATION
The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science showcases exhibits on dinosaurs, ecosystems, and various aspects of natural history. Interactive displays and life-size models bring science to life for visitors of all ages. The museum's collections and educational programs highlight both global biodiversity and Delaware's unique natural environments.
13. Brandywine Zoo
INTIMATE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Brandywine Zoo offers a compact but engaging wildlife experience featuring animals from around the world, including its popular red panda exhibit. The zoo focuses on conservation education and provides up-close viewing opportunities despite its small size. Located within Brandywine Park, the zoo makes for a family-friendly attraction that can be enjoyed alongside other park amenities.
14. Constitution Yards Beer Garden
RIVERFRONT DINING EXPERIENCE
Constitution Yards Beer Garden is a seasonal outdoor dining venue located along Wilmington's popular Riverwalk. Visitors can enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and casual food while taking in views of the Christina River. The space features yard games, communal seating, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a favorite gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
15. Market Street Shopping District
DOWNTOWN RETAIL HUB
Market Street Shopping District serves as Wilmington's main commercial corridor featuring a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops. The area combines historic architecture with modern storefronts, creating a unique shopping environment in the heart of downtown. Visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping while exploring this pedestrian-friendly district that connects to other Wilmington attractions.