As the weather begins to break, a trip to the Wilmington Riverfront becomes almost required. It’s time to leave those jackets in the car and explore! Best known for the Riverwalk, a 1.3-mile pathway along the Christina River, the neighborhood has become one of the most enticing to visit. Connecting the area’s Riverfront Market, a local marketplace filled with amazing food and shopping vendors, to the DuPont Environmental Education Center and the Jack A. Markell (JAM) trail, this well-known waterfront area is perfect for an all-day adventure or a quick visit. Whether you are on your own or with the family, there is something for everyone and every mood.  

Check out these 10 adventures to indulge in this spring along Wilmington’s Riverfront.  

 
1. Putt Your Way through the Riverwalk Mini Golf  

Opening again May 20th, this beautifully landscaped mini-golf course is fun for the whole family. Designed by Harris Miniature Golf of Wildwood, New Jersey, the Riverwalk Mini Golf course features many of the colors and plant life found along the Riverfront as well as the iconic Tom Burke birdhouses! We say the loser buys the ice cream and milkshakes at the golf shack next door.  

2. Sail the Christina with Kalmar Nyckel Sailing Days 

Beginning May 6th, the Kalmar Nyckel will hit the high seas (well as high as the Christina River gets anyway) for its 2023 season. Get outside and enjoy the spring and summer breeze in your hair aboard Wilmington’s full-scale replica Tall Ship. Learn about the history of the Swedes in Delaware with a hands-on experience. Haul lines, set sails, hear tales from the crew, or simply sit back and enjoy.  

3. Walk, Bike, and JAM across the Jack A. Markell Trail  

Even the most novice of riders can take on what is referred to as the JAM trail. The Jack A. Markell biking and walking trail connects Wilmington’s Riverfront to Historic New Castle. This 7.9-mile trail is an off-road pathway consisting of elevated boardwalks, paved pathways, and one on-road section through Historic New Castle. 

4. Grab a Bite for Now and Later at the Riverfront Market  

The Riverfront Market is a bustling public marketplace in a historic warehouse on the banks of the Christina River. Inside, the market boasts a European-style marketplace that features plenty of café style seating and high-quality foods from local, independently owned merchants. Vendors occupy the ground floor of the building, and feature such items as: seafood, baked goods, pizza, sandwiches, soups, salads, snacks, sushi, and Thai cuisine. Stop by for a quick bite, to grab a prepared meal, or to gather the freshest ingredients for the recipe waiting for you at home. 

5. Discover Dynamic Art at The Delaware Contemporary  

The Delaware Contemporary is a dynamic gathering place where art, design, and technology intersect to inspire creativity in daily lives. The gallery is located just a few blocks from the Riverwalk and features regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized artists that explore topical issues in contemporary art and society. 

DuPont Environmental Education Center6. Explore Nature at the DuPont Environmental Education Center 

Better known as DEEC, the DuPont Environmental Education Center, located at the end of the Riverfront, is where the city, river, and marsh meet. This beautiful refuge is 212 acres of freshwater tidal marsh adjoining the Christina River and is home to many birds and other nesting and migrating species. DEEC is open to the public year-round and features a Visitor Center with panoramic river and marsh views (perfect for those #InstaWorthy photos), a 10-acre ornamental garden, and a quarter-mile handicapped-accessible pond loop that extends into the marsh.  

7. Grab a Brew and Throw an Axe at Constitution Yards Beer Garden  

The Riverfront is home to the area’s only seasonal beer garden, featuring 30,000 sq. ft of outdoor space along the Riverwalk. Helping to round out what had already become the area’s go-to place for spring and summer fun, Constitution Yards features classic backyard BBQ fare, an ever-changing rotation of craft beers, and plenty of space for backyard games like corn hole! Eat, drink, relax, and play. Bring your friends for a night out or the family. Did we mention there was axe throwing!? 

8. One... Two... Three Strikes You're Out to a Blue Rocks Game  

Baseball season is upon us so why not take in a game while at the Riverfront? The Wilmington Blue Rocks, Delaware’s Advanced-A Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Washington Nationals Major League team, are ready to “PLAY BALL" and will throw out their first pitch of their 30th season April 8th. Learn more about upcoming games in the blog below.  

9. Cruise the Christina in Style 

Delaware Cruises round out “Riverfront Wilmington Entertainment.” Take a public cruise with scenic views of the Christina River, evening sunset and skyline, or grab a drink at the Mimosa Brunch ride. If you have a group, book a private cruise for up to 48 passengers. Looking for a tropical experience? You can coast the Pau Hana with a Paradise Tiki Tour during your next #VisitWilm Riverfront adventure. More information on the 2023 schedule will be available soon. Be sure to check out www.riverfrontwilmington.com.

10. Dining with a Riverside View  

Last but not least... While out and about along the Riverfront, enjoy the innovative and ever-changing culinary scenery filled with extraordinary choices - all with a view of the river!