"Great Escapes" Spring Travel Getaways

Subject: A Day in Old New Castle

Contact: Lyn Lewis, Director of Communications
Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau
(302) 295-2212, LynLewis@WilmCVB.org

Plan your "Girls' Getaway" around "A Day in Old New Castle", the nation's oldest, continuously running house and garden tour. Located off Interstate-95, just minutes south of Wilmington, DE, Historic New Castle is second only to Williamsburg in the number and authenticity of its historic structures, but unlike Williamsburg, it is a living, vibrant community. On May 21st from 10AM until 5PM, residents in this 350-year-old town open their homes and gardens to the public. It's a unique opportunity to go inside private homes that are over 200 years old. See how they have been adapted to 21st-century lifestyles and admire their carefully manicured gardens. Enjoy complimentary walking tours along cobblestone paths, colonial music and games, a plein air artists' competition, horse drawn carriage rides and savory treats at local restaurants.

Consider extending your "Getaway" with an overnight stay. Indulge yourselves in old-world luxury at the historic Hotel du Pont in the heart of Downtown Wilmington. Savor the Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa's charm and tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy the relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere at the Hilton Wilmington/Christiana with its award-winning Brasserie Grille.

After a delicious breakfast, celebrate Spring at Longwood Gardens where you'll find twenty acres of outdoor gardens in full bloom and four acres of gardens under glass in the Conservatory. If you prefer, visit Nemours Mansion & Gardens, Winterthur or Hagley Museum. If time allows, spend the final moments of your "Getaway" in one of our many wineries.

For more information about the Greater Wilmington Area, your gateway to the beautiful Brandywine Valley, go to www.VisitWilmingtonDE.com or call 302-295-2210.

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