Wilmington, Delaware

1. Delaware Museum of Natural History

The Delaware Museum of Natural History is the only museum of its kind in the state, and lets visitors learn about the natural world through discovery and exploration.

The museum hosts a variety of on site exhibits, including permanent exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, birds, and Charles Darwin, among others. These exhibits are geared towards children and families , and they offer both interactive and interpretive activities to facilitate a fun learning environment. The Delaware Museum of Natural History is one of the top Wilmington attractions. The museum also provides various temporary and traveling exhibits throughout the year, including holiday displays, seasonal outdoor exhibits, and a variety of special events, all of which are posted on the museum’s website.

4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE, Phone: 302-658-9111, Map

2. Nemours Mansion and Gardens

Once the home of Wilmington’s renowned du Pont family, the Nemours Mansion and Gardens was modeled after a classic French Chateau and named for a town from which the du Pont’s descended. Today, the Nemours Foundation owns the home, and they restored its interior, exterior, and expansive grounds in order to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the elaborate style and luxury the family once enjoyed.

The home is open to the public, and guests are able to tour the establishment and admire the preserved furnishings and rare artwork, along with the romantic gardens, one of which is similar to a famous Versailles garden. The Nemours Mansion and Gardens is one of the best things to do in Wilmington, Delaware.

Nemours Mansion and Gardens, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE19803, Phone: 302-651-6912

3. Delaware Art Museum

One of the largest art collections in the state, the Delaware Art Museum is home to more then 12,000 pieces of work. The Museum is known for its collection of American art and illustrations, especially those dated between the 19th and 21st centuries. The museum also boasts an outdoor Sculpture Park, which expands almost 10 acres across the property.

Throughout the year, the museum presents a variety of special exhibitions, ranging from well known traveling displays to local folk art by Wilmington based artists. Over 100 workshops, classes, and sessions are offered throughout the year, and they are available to children, families, and adults alike.

2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-571-9590, Map

4. Hagley Museum and Library

The Hagley Museum and Library is a 225-acre compound that contains historical sites, heritage buildings, and various authentic artifacts all belonging to the established and influential du Pont family. The grounds, which sit alongside the Brandywine Creek, contain the first family of the du Ponts, as well as a 19th century machine shop and several powder yards.

A Renaissance-revival garden complete with statuary and terraces sits below the house. The Museum and Library are housed within the complex, and they provide education and insight on original artifacts pertaining to the early years of the du Pont family and their significant contribution to both Wilmington and the United States.

Hagley Museum and Library, 200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-658-2400

5. Grand Opera House

A well-known building in downtown Wilmington, the Grand Opera House, also known simply as The Grand, is a commanding and elaborate structure. Built in 1871, the property was initially home to a Lodge of Masons. Later, it played host a variety of performances including operas, Victoria melodramas, vaudeville, burlesque, and symphonies during before becoming a movie theater run by Warner Brothers.

Today, the building is host to a variety of community events, and it provides a scenic backdrop for some of Wilmington’s most talented to display their craft. For a calendar of upcoming events and ticket purchasing options, visit the Grand Opera House website.

Grand Opera House, 818 N Market St, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-652-5577

6. Brandywine Zoo

The Brandywine Zoo in downtown Wilmington is situated on a 12-acre land parcel. Home to over 150 species, the Zoo is divided into three sections: the main zoo, the exotic animal house, and a petting zoo.

Notable animal residents include red pandas, two toed sloths, and the largest known rodent, the capybara.

The museum also provides educational programs that provide informative and interactive features on a traveling rotation of species. A variety of events, including educational programs and seasonal features, take place on site throughout the year. The Brandywine Zoo’s website provides a calendar of upcoming exhibits and events.

1001 N Park Dr, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-571-7747, Map

7. Wilmington and Western Railroad

In the 1870’s, the original Wilmington and Western Railroad route stretched through downtown Wilmington, and for decades the path way contributed to the economy and work force of the area.

In the 1960’s, the once active train transitioned into a tourist attraction, and for more then fifty years it has functioned as a relaxing and scenic way to tour the surrounding area. Today, visitors can ride the train and travel down the heritage tracks to learn more about the site’s impact on Wilmington’s economical development and historical contributions, all while taking in the scenic rural views.

Throughout the year, the train hosts seasonal events and exhibits, and is available for personal rides, parties, and gatherings.

2201 Newport Gap Pike, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-998-1930, Map

8. Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge

Downtown Wilmington is home to the Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge, a unique urban green space designed to act as an environmental preservation and visitor recreation center.

The preserve itself is located directly on Wilmington’s Riverfront, and it is one of the few urban wildlife zones in the country. The land now features a tranquil sanctuary that provides both fish and other wildlife habitats along the waterfront and throughout the surrounding wetland marsh.

Raised wooden walkways, trails, and viewing platforms allow guests to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the scenery and wildlife of the refuge.

Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge, 1400 Delmarva Lane, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-656-1490

9. Delaware Children's Museum

Open to children of all ages, the Delaware Children's Museum has a mission of inspiring exploration, discovery, and self-efficacy in the lives of children through the use of interactive learning and hands-on experiences.

With permanent exhibits and activity centers based on topics such as science, technology, arts, engineering, and math, the museum is geared towards facilitating fun learning opportunities with a range of engaging and interpretive-based activities.

Throughout the year, the Delaware Children's Museum also hosts a variety of temporary and traveling exhibits and seasonal events, all of which are outlined on their website.

550 Justison St, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-654-2340, Map

10. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts

Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts is the only contemporary art museum within the state. Established in 1979, the museum is host to a range of local and regional artists, and it is focused on establishing a community center that thrives on the celebration of creativity.

The museum is considered non-collecting, meaning its priority is exhibiting a variety of new artists and their artwork instead of acquiring permanent pieces. As a result, the museum is a vibrant and inspirational setting within Wilmington. The Center also hosts a variety of workshops, classes, and camps throughout the year for both artists and non-artists who wish to learn more or find outlets of expression.

Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, 200 S Madison St, Wilmington, Delaware, Phone: 302-656-6466