Below you will find a list of the best things to do in Wilmington DE. Delaware is fondly known as the 1st state and Wilmington is a popular and an important city in the state. The city is only about a 35-minute drive from Philadelphia and constantly attracts a stream of visitors and tourists throughout the year.
Before visiting Wilmington De, we curated a list of activities to do in Wilmington Delaware and after our visit, we were able to add to that list and have written about all these places in this blog post. Without further ado, let’s get right to it.
List Of The Best Things To Do In Wilmington DE
1. Explore and Relax At Riverfront Wilmington
The Riverfront district of Wilmington is a well-liked hub for activities and social gatherings. The reason for this is not far-fetched, it was instantly apparent as soon as we drove into the district.
There are several outlets and attractions to keep you busy when you are here, there are bars, restaurants, and many other storefronts. Do not forget to checkout the Big Fish Grill and Taco Grande. An iconic landmark that you will see as soon as you drive into the Riverfront is the giant brick smokestack, it is really remarkable.
In our opinion, a visit to the Riverfront Wilmington area should be on top of your fun things to do in Wilmington DE list. There are a few other attractions in this district that we will talk about, later on.
2. Spend A Day At The Longwood Gardens
| Ticket Prices | Adults $25 Seniors (62+) $22 Students $22 Youth (5-18) $13 Kids (Under 4) Free Military $18 |
| Hours | Monday 10AM-6PM Tuesday Closed Wednesday 10AM-6PM Thu-Sat 10AM-10PM Sunday 10AM-6PM |
| Address | 1001 Longwood Rd, Kennett Square, PA 19348 |
The Longwood Gardens is a special place to visit. It in on the outskirts of town but we enjoyed every bit of the time we spent there. We went there right around when many flowers were in bloom and this amplified the beauty and serenity of the garden.
Whereas the address of this garden is physically in Pennsylvania, we have included it on this list because we went there during our trip to explore Wilmington DE and it is close enough. Tourists can easily spend a whole day at the Longwood Gardens and would not be bored for a second.
Shows, Events, Tours In Longwood Gardens
One of the major highlights of this garden is the fountain show, it is simply spectacular. The observatory is also another section of the gardens that we visited and instantly fell in love with.
Thinking of things to do in Wilmington Delaware for adults or with family? Go ahead and pen down a visit to the Longwood Gardens as one of them.
Question: Is the Longwood Gardens wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, the Longwood Gardens is wheelchair accessible. They have a lot of wheelchairs for free use and also, amazingly have motorized scooters that can be used too. It is given out based on first-come first-served and they only require you to pay what you can.
Question: Does Longwood Gardens have food for purchase?
Answer: Yes, they do. There is a food court and café to buy different kinds of food.
Question: What is the best time of the year to visit Longwood gardens?
Answer: The simple answer is that it depends on what your interests are. For us, late spring and early summer was the most ideal time, thus we visited in May. The temperature outside was in the low 80s and it made our walks very enjoyable. Checkout What’s In Bloom At Longwood Gardens, Here.
3. Visit And Explore The Majestic Nemours Estate
| Ticket Prices | Adult $20 Seniors (62+) $18 Kids (6-16) $10 Kids (under 5) Free Family $40 |
| Hours | Monday Closed Tue-Sun 10AM-5PM Open : April – December Closed: January – March |
| Address | 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803 |
The Nemours Estate is an opulently elegant mansion that has about 77 rooms and sits on 200 acres of lush gardens, sparkling green lawns and well landscaped land. The DuPont family’s presence and influence in the Wilmington locality is undisputed.
Their philanthropy is unmatched and well documented. The Nemours Estate is a Dupont family estate and is currently a popular tourist attraction. The tour will leave you, as it left us with many remarkable memories.
The estate is very well preserved and taken care off, especially when you realize how old it is. They have many friendly staff, who are eager to answer question and provide histories.
Question: Is the Nemours Estate wheelchair and stroller friendly?
Answer: Yes, it is.
4. Winterthur – Henry Francis du Pont’s Museum & Country Estate
| Ticket Prices | Adult $22 Seniors (62+) $20 Kids (3-13) $8 Kids (under 2) Free Students $20 |
| Hours | Monday Closed Tue-Sun 10AM-5PM |
| Address | 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735 |
Explore the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in Wilmington Delaware. Again, this is another wonderful place to visit in this city that is linked to the DuPont family. The museum houses thousands of decorative arts from an American origin.
The ground is expansive and as such, they have an onsite tram that can be used to aid your touring. There are various sections in the property, from the main house/museum to the gardens and library.
You can choose to go on a self-guided tour or participate in one of the docent-led tours that are organized regularly. Looking for things to do with kids in Wilmington DE? Consider visiting the children’s fairy garden and enchanted woods in Winterthur, your kids will absolutely love it.
Reservations are required for the house tours in Winterthur.
5. Explore The Breweries – Iron Hill Brewery
When we visit a new city, a line item that we always have on our to do list is to explore and visit the local breweries and craft houses. So, while in Wilmington Delaware, we did the same.
Right in the Riverfront district, there is a local brewery known as the Iron Hill Brewery. They have a wide range of beer and food options. Checkout their menu here.
6. Delaware Children Museum – Things To Do In Wilmington DE With Kids
| Ticket Prices | General $12 Under 1 Yr Free |
| Hours | Mon-Tue Closed Wed-Sun 10AM-5PM |
| Address | 550 Justison Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 |
The Delaware Children Museum is right on the main portion of the Wilmington Riverfront. It is a must visit museum if you have kids. Therefore, you should pen it down on your list of things to do with kids in Wilmington DE.
Going by the amenities inside this museum, we would say that kids, teens as well as adults will have plenty of fun visiting it. There are various exhibits designed to give kids their first practical experience on various aspects of science, engineering, architecture, arts and so much more.
Of course, the kids cannot visit by themselves, so they must be accompanied by parents or guardians. However, these parents or guardians are charged to enter the facility too. Well, some folks do not see the rationale for behind this, but we personally chuck it up and consider it as a donation to the museum.
7. Spend Some Time At The Delaware Art Museum
| Ticket Prices | Adults $14 Youth (7-18) $6 Students $7 Kids (Under 6) Free |
| Hours | Mon-Tue Closed Wed-Sun 10AM-4PM |
| Address | 2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington, DE 19806 |
The Delaware Art Museum was another place we had penned down on our things to do in Wilmington DE list before arrival. We paid a visit to this iconic cultural heritage center and enjoyed every bit of it.
We like to think that this museum has two parts to it, an excellent indoor space which has huge collection of arts and the wonderful Copeland Sculpture Garden outside. Overall, we assess this museum as a must visit for tourists who visit this city.
Question: Does the Delaware Art Museum have free parking?
Answer: Yes, the Delaware Art Museum has free on-site parking
8. Go Have Fun At The Delaware Contemporary
| Ticket Prices | Adults $12 Kids (under 13) $6 |
| Hours | Mon-Wed Closed Thu-Sun 12PM-5PM |
| Address | 200 South Madison St, Wilmington, DE 19801 |
The Delaware Contemporary is located minutes away from the Riverfront in Wilmington DE. It used to be known as the Delaware Center for Contemporary Arts before becoming rebranded to The Delaware Contemporary.
This arts museum has a total of 7 galleries, 26 studios for artists, a gallery shop, an auditorium, and classrooms. One of the advantages and alluring qualities of a contemporary museum is that it deals with the present or the not-too-distant past.
As such, there is a huge possibility that a visit to The Delaware Contemporary will give you the opportunity to meet some of the artists whose arts are on display. While in town, check out their schedule for studio nights, it a fun, interactive social gathering.
Question: Does The Delaware Contemporary organize tours?
Answer: Yes, they do. The have regularly scheduled tours for individuals and groups.
9. Explore The Hagley Museum
| Ticket Prices | Adults $16 Seniors (62+) $16 Students $16 Kids (6-14) $10 Kids (Under 6) Free |
| Hours | Daily 10AM-5PM |
| Address | 200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington, DE 19807 |
The Hagley Museum in Wilmington Delaware doubles as a museum as well as a library. It is yet another iconic landmark in this city that has a connection with the DuPont family. If anything, this is where the Dupont’s American story started, in the early 19th century.
Amongst their earlier foray in industrialization was through the manufacture of black gunpowder and at this museum, they timeline is well established and preserved. Plan to spend about 4 hours in this museum, this will enable you tour and make stops at the various sections.
The machine shop, turbine demonstration and gunpowder demo were our favorites. This museum has something for everyone and will be ideal for your things to do in Wilmington Delaware bucket list.
Question: Is the Hagley Museum and Library wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, the Hagley Museum and Library is wheelchair accessible.
Question: Does the ticket price include the tour bus?
Answer: Yes, it does and the bus will make stops at many of the remarkable spots on the museum grounds.
10. Boat Cruise On The Christina River Along The Riverfront
Enjoy a boat cruise on the Christina River along the Wilmington Riverfront. For visitors to the Riverfront area in Wilmington DE, they will usually have a lot of options, as it regards what activities to engage in.
One of those many options will be to enjoy a boat cruise on the serene and gentle flowing Christina River. You can choose to catch a cruise on the Brandywine boat or the Pau-Hana (Paradise Tiki) boat.
There are also several packages, individual, family and friends, evening cruise, sunset cruise and more. The dock is located right on the Riverfront Wilmington trail, behind the Iron-Hill brewery.
Address: 601 South Madison St, Wilmington, DE. 19801
Question: Does the boats have a drinks bar?
Answer: Yes, they do. They also have assorted drinks, that is both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
11. Explore The Blue Ball Barn and Alapocas Run
The Blue Ball Barn is part of the Delaware park system and suitable for those who are looking for outdoor activities. It also has the indoor space, which is a barn and also doubles as a mini museum.
There are variety of things to do here, for starters you can walk, stroll or hike. Depending on when you go, you can also participate in the Top Rope Rock Climbing activity.
Park staff at the Blue Ball Barn in Wilmington Delaware will start by giving a brief introduction of the equipment, climbing and safety. When that is done, they will help you to get the harness on and direct you on how to climb the natural rock wall in the Blue Ball Barn premises.
Consider visiting the Blue Ball Barn as part of your things to do with teenagers in Wilmington Delaware list. To participate in this rock climbing and rappelling at the Alapocas Run, you must fill and print the free Rock-Climbing permit and bring with you.
Address: 1914 W Park Dr, Wilmington DE. 19803
Question: Is there an age limit to participating in the Top Rope Rock climbing exercise at Blue Ball Barn?
Answer: Yes, there is an age limit. Only participants who are 8yrs and above are allowed to participate.
Question: How much does it cost to participate in the Top Rope Rock Climbing exercise at Blue Ball Barn?
Answer: It costs $30 per person to participate in the Top Rope Rock Climbing exercise at Blue Ball Barn.
12. Delaware Museum of Nature and Science Plus The Evolution trail
| Ticket Prices | General (3 & up) $14.50 Toddlers (1-2) $4.25 Infant (Under 1Yr) Free |
| Hours | Daily 9:30AM-4:30PM |
| Address | 4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807 |
The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is yet another museum that was founded by a member of the Dupont family, circa 1950’s. As is usual with museums, they typically cater to a particular theme and in this case, the same hold true.
The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science caters to, collects and displays themes about birds and their eggs, seashells, artic animals, skeletal dinosaurs and many different animals. Inside of the museum is designed to appeal to the whole family but when we went there, we saw a lot more kids than adults.
Thus, for your list of things to do in Wilmington with kids, give this museum a visit. There is also the newly created evolution trail outside of the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science. Walking this trail is fun and educating.
There are signages along the paved path that traces the earth’s formation some 4.6 billion years ago and its subsequent evolutionary history.
Question: Is this museum wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science is wheelchair accessible.
Question: Can I get into the museum with strollers?
Answer: Yes, you can get into the building with strollers and all the exhibitions are on the 1st floor.
Question: Does the museum have free parking?
Answer: Yes, it does.
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13. Play Some Golf At The Riverfront Minigolf Center
| Ticket Prices | $10 Per Person Kids Under 3 Free |
| Hours | Mon-Tue Closed Wed-Sat 2:30PM-9:30PM Sunday 12PM-7PM |
| Address | 550 Justison St, Wilmington Delaware. 19801 |
The Riverfront Minigolf facility is sandwiched right between the Delaware Children’s Museum and the Trail at Riverfront. It is a small facility that brings another variety to the activities that can be engaged in while visiting the Riverfront area in Wilmington DE.
They have 18 holes and easy to play topography. Additionally, there is an ice cream, milkshake and soda stand. It is worth a visit, it is cheap and the whole family will enjoy it.
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14. Delaware Theatre Company
The Delaware Theatre Company brings live artistic and theatrical performance to the shining fore. They have regular shows and events, with each designed to entertain and make you relish watching or seeing them. The seating arrangement is good, providing excellent views of the stage from every seat.
Lighting, music, costumes, and designs are all top-notch. The tickets can be pricey sometimes, but you can always take advantage of their advertised discounts, especially when purchasing early. To enhance the experience for visitors, they have recently equipped the theater with a new wireless assistive listening device, for those who need it.
Address: 200 Water Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
Question: Is the Delaware Theatre Company wheelchair accessible?
Answer: Yes, the Delaware Theatre Company is wheelchair accessible.
Question: Is the price the same for different shows at the Delaware Theatre company?
Answers: No, the prices differ according to the show and the zone your assigned seat is in.
15. Explore The Brandywine Park
The Brandywine Park is located right in the heart of Wilmington DE. It is alongside the Brandywine River as well as the Brandywine Zoo. This park is very popular with the locals and tourists to the city.
It very well maintained and has various fantastic features that keeps making it attractive. Some of the features include but aren’t limited to several lush green lawns, a rose garden, a circuit for fitness enthusiasts, a fountain, a tennis court, the sugar bowl stage and more.
The park is remarkable in a lot of ways, and you should visit it. Because of its proximity to the Brandywine River, it is common to see people fishing here. Additionally, you can explore and hike the trail, while also visiting the swinging bridge. Admission into the park is Free and it has a lot of free parking spaces.
Address: 1080 N. Park Dr, Wilmington, DE 19802
16. Brandywine Zoo – Things To Do With Wilmington Delaware With Kids
| Ticket Prices | Adults(18-61) $7 – $9 Kids (3-17) $5 – $7 Seniors (62+) $5 – $7 Kids (under 3) Free |
| Hours | Daily 10AM-4PM |
| Address | 1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington, DE 19802 |
The Brandywine Zoo is just across the road from the Brandywine Park. Even though it is a small zoo, it leaves visitors with a sense of fulfilment after a visit. We spent roughly half an hour here while walking at a leisurely pace, yet we made our rounds and saw almost if not all the animals in this zoo.
Thinking of things to do with kids or teens in Wilmington DE, add a trip to this zoo to that list. They often have events and shows organized to teach kids and teenagers about animals and the zoo.
17. Rent A Bike and Ride Along The Riverfront
Another fun activity to do on the trail or boardwalk located on the Riverfront is to rent a bike and ride along the trail. There is a bike station right outside the Mini-Golf facility and it is a popular activity on the trail.
The lovely aspect of this new bike station is that it gives visitors to the Riverfront the opportunity to switch up their activities, say from walking and strolling to renting a bike and exploring the boardwalk. While riding the bike, you can go as far from the Riverfront boardwalk as to the popular JAM trail.
18. Catch A Movie At The Penn Cinema
If you are in the mood to spend some time in an indoor theater watching a movie, then head over to Penn Cinema. This cinema has IMAX and 3D capabilities, and it presents visitors with yet another activity to do in the Riverfront Area.
In fact, for the list of romantic things to do in Wilmington Delaware for couples, I will definitely include visiting this cinema. As expected, they have different theater rooms and depending on which one you go into, it may have reclining seats.
19. Wilmington State Parks – Things To Do In Wilmington DE
This state park is another wonderful outdoor space that is located in the heart of Wilmington DE. It is just a few minutes off I-95 and quite close to the Brandywine Park. It has a lot of the standard amenities that you would expect to see in a well-run park.
On a typical day, you will see people who are out there to have a picnic and chill, whereas others are out there to hike, walk or stroll. It is usually so serene and peaceful. Each season brings a different kind of beauty to the scenery and landscape.
20. Delaware History Trail
The Delaware History Trail spans across the 1st state, meandering through hills and valleys of Brandywine up to the flat lands and sandy soils of the Atlantic Ocean. This trail was designed to provides hikers the opportunity to indulge in the history of the state of Delaware while on a hike.
Throughout its length and breadth, the Delaware History Trail has about 29 notable spots that are designed to highlight various aspects of the state’s rich and culturally relevant past. Because of the length of this trail, you can start your hiking from many locations.
21. Hike, Walk, Stroll Along The Riverfront
There is a boardwalk on the Riverfront Wilmington that attracts people from all walks of life. You can hike, walk or stroll along this boardwalk and proceed onto the JAM trail.
There are benches all along this boardwalk/trail and you are welcome to sit occasionally and catch your breathe or just take in the scenery of the Christina River which runs parallel to the boardwalk.
22. Bellevue State Park
Looking for a memorable outdoor experience in Wilmington? Look no further than Bellevue State Park! Nestled in the heart of Wilmington, this picturesque park offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike.
From tranquil picnics amidst lush greenery to invigorating hikes along scenic trails, Bellevue State Park has something for everyone. Explore the historic Bellevue mansion and its beautifully manicured gardens, or engage in a game of disc golf with friends.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the park features horseback riding trails and a fishing pond. With its rich history, diverse recreational options, and breathtaking landscapes, Bellevue State Park stands as a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers looking to make the most of their time in Wilmington.
Summary Of Unique Things To Do In Wilmington DE
- Explore and Relax At Riverfront Wilmington
- Spend A Day At The Longwood Gardens
- Visit And Explore The Majestic Nemours Estate
- Winterthur – Henry Francis du Pont’s Museum & Country Estate
- Explore The Breweries – Iron Hill Brewery
- Delaware Children Museum
- Spend Some Time At The Delaware Art Museum
- Go Have Fun At The Delaware Contemporary
- Explore The Hagley Museum
- Boat Cruise On The Christina River Along The Riverfront
- Explore The Blue Ball Barn and Alapocas Run
- Delaware Museum of Nature and Science Plus The Evolution trail
- Play Some Golf At The Riverfront Minigolf Center
- Delaware Theatre Company
- Explore The Brandywine Park
- Brandywine Zoo – Things To Do With Wilmington Delaware With Kids
- Rent A Bike and Ride Along The Riverfront
- Catch A Movie At The Penn Cinema
- Wilmington State Parks – Things To Do In Wilmington DE
- Delaware History Trail
- Hike, Walk, Stroll Along The Riverfront
- Bellevue State Park
