Welcome to 2025!
A new year means new adventures, and Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley is ready to be your ultimate getaway. This charming destination offers the perfect escape—just a short trip away, but a world apart. Known for its budget-friendly appeal, diverse experiences, and the cozy charm of historic towns, the area is a delightful mix of artisan attractions, cultural festivals, and vibrant local flavor. Located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, Wilmington continues to make waves, earning accolades like Condé Nast Traveler's list of the best places to visit. With its renowned outdoor recreation, world-class museums, and multicultural events, this region celebrates its rich heritage in every way. And, of course, the stunning gardens that make this area a haven for nature lovers remain one of the biggest draws on the East Coast.
Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape or a longer, more immersive experience, Greater Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley has everything you need to create an unforgettable trip. Start your 2025 off right—come explore the beauty, history, and charm that's waiting for you!
1. TASTE GREATER WILMINGTON’S EVER-GROWING FOOD SCENE...
There’s no denying it—Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley’s dining scene is hotter than ever! Dubbed “The It City Next Door” by Philadelphia Magazine, this culinary hotspot continues to attract food lovers with an ever-expanding roster of innovative eateries and unique experiences. The Bardea restaurant group continues to thrive as one of Wilmington’s culinary success stories, with exciting new additions on the horizon. Joining their already impressive lineup is “Casa Nonna,” a casual Italian eatery debuting at DE.CO Food Hall, inspired by chef Antimo DiMeo’s Italian grandmothers. Additionally, Bardea’s co-owners have acquired the former Stitch House Brewery on Market Street, transforming it into "Roost," a pub and kitchen featuring elevated comfort foods.
Meanwhile, Augustine Tavern has opened in Middletown, bringing fresh energy to a historic building that once served as a hotel overlooking the Delaware Bay. With its blend of white-tablecloth classics and approachable dining, Augustine Tavern is a perfect nod to the past with a modern twist.
Eat & Drink
The restaurants of the Wilmington, Delaware and the Brandywine Valley draw influences from the farm-to-table values of the Pennsylvania Dutch to…
2. CHECK OUT THE GRAND CHANGES AT LONGWOOD GARDENS...
Longwood Gardens, one of the most beloved public gardens in the United States, has unveiled a stunning transformation through its “Longwood Reimagined” project. This ambitious endeavor includes new buildings, expanded indoor and outdoor gardens, a fresh dining concept, and a significant extension of Longwood’s property. The highlight of the project is the West Conservatory, which debuted just in time for A Longwood Christmas in November 2024. With its striking asymmetrical peaks rising from a reflective pool, the conservatory gives the illusion of floating—an architectural masterpiece. It’s a can’t miss destination for your 2025 adventures.
3. GET WILD AT MT CUBA CENTER THIS SPRING...
Delaware’s Mt. Cuba Center, a cherished botanical garden, showcases native plants, scenic trails, a trial garden, peaceful ponds, and so much more. Once farmland, it has blossomed into one of the region's hidden treasures. Dedicated to celebrating the beauty and importance of native plants while safeguarding their habitats, Mt. Cuba is a must-visit destination. The 2025 season begins on April 1, aligning perfectly with National Garden Month. A highlight of their year is the annual Wildflower Weekend in late April, featuring live music, food trucks, and stunning displays of vibrant wildflowers that transform the gardens and trails into a breathtaking spectacle.
Wildflower Celebration Weekend
- Mt. Cuba Center
- Apr 19, 2024 - Apr 21, 2024
4. ENJOY A YEAR OF FUN AT HAGLEY MUSEUM AND LIBRARY...
Hagley Museum and Library offers a glimpse into history as the site of the first du Pont ancestral home, Eleutherian Mills, alongside the original gunpowder mills and beautifully preserved gardens once cared for by the du Pont family. Throughout the year, Hagley hosts a variety of events designed to create lasting memories, from craft fairs and car shows to summer community celebrations and its iconic holiday display. A must-see is the Nation of Inventors exhibition, located in the Visitor Center, showcasing over 100 patent models that tell the story of innovation and the evolution of inventions still in use today. Hagley combines history, STEM learning, and fun, making it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages.
5. VISIT SIX INCREDIBLE GARDENS WITHIN 12 MILES...
Did you know this region boasts over 30 public gardens and historic landscapes within just 30 miles? That’s right! Known as “Chateau Country” by locals, the Brandywine Valley is home to six exceptional garden attractions, all within a 12-mile radius and with rich ties to the du Pont family. Conveniently located in America’s Garden Capital, these estate properties—Hagley Museum and Library, Mt. Cuba Center, Longwood Gardens, Nemours Estate, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, and the Brandywine Museum of Art—offer year-round opportunities to explore their unique beauty. Spanning from 200 to over 1,000 acres, each estate showcases its own distinct charm and history.
6. GET OUTSIDE AND EXPLORE SOME OF THE REGION’S BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION...
Greater Wilmington is a well-preserved piece of the Mid-Atlantic region that boasts miles of trails and pathways for hikers, bikers, wildlife viewers, and even horseback riders. Wake up early to fish in rivers, streams and ponds, or watch rare birds take flight along one of the largest migratory passages in North America. And in our parks, daily activities throughout the year show the best of each of our gorgeous four seasons. Delaware’s outdoor tourism is incomparable. The Northern part of the state is known for its incredible green spaces perfect for a quick rock climb, a picnic lunch under Rockford Tower, or even a weekend exploration to the marker where Maryland, Pennsylvania and Delaware connect inside White Clay Creek State Park. If you’re outdoorsy on any level, we have incredible sights to see in New Castle County.
Outdoor Recreation & Sports
The natural beauty of the Brandywine Valley is ready for you to discover on land, on water, and by air.
7. TAKE IN SOME WILDLIFE...
Delaware boasts 34 unique Nature Preserves spanning nearly 7,000 acres, offering serene retreats for nature enthusiasts. These protected areas highlight the state’s rich natural diversity, from lush forests and tranquil marshes to pristine sandy beaches. Managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), the preserves invite visitors to hike, observe wildlife, and immerse themselves in untouched landscapes. Though camping isn’t permitted, these spaces provide a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature, all while ensuring Delaware’s natural beauty is preserved for generations to come. Visitors are reminded to embrace “leave no trace” practices to help protect these cherished sites.
Wings Over Wilmington & the Brandywine: Exploring Birding Hotspots in Delaware's State Parks
Embark on a birding adventure through the landscapes of Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley's state parks. Whether you're a seasoned…
8. LEARN MORE ABOUT FORT DELAWARE’S INCREDIBLE UPGRADE... 
Built in 1859, Fort Delaware, located on Pea Patch Island, served as a Civil War prison housing nearly 33,000 Confederate POWs. Today, it’s a vibrant living history site where reenactors in period clothing bring the past to life with demonstrations, including cannon firings. The island is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring the largest heron nesting site on the East Coast outside of Florida. Some recent funding even led to major improvements to the visitor experience, including a rebuilt tram road from the pier to the fort, upgraded park trails, a new accessible birdwatching platform, and a screened picnic pavilion with 16 tables. Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, Fort Delaware is a must-visit for your 2025 bucket list!
9. ADVENTURE ON A HISTORICAL HIKE...
Delaware holds the unique distinction of being the only state entirely east of the Mason-Dixon Line. You can explore the origin of this historic boundary on the Tri-State Marker Trail, a 3.5-mile loop starting at White Clay Creek State Park Nature Center. The trail leads to the exact spot where Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland meet, with nearly half of the path situated in Delaware. A short quarter mile farther along, you’ll discover the Arc Corner Monument, marking where the famed Arc of Delaware intersects with the Mason-Dixon Line.
Fun fact: Delaware is also the only state in the U.S. with an arched or curved border—a testament to its rich and distinctive history!
10. EXPLORE GREATER WILMINGTON BY BIKE...
The Greater Wilmington region has over 120 miles of paved walking and biking trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts! Among these, three major interconnected trails are part of the East Coast Greenway, a 3,000-mile route stretching through 15 states from Maine to Florida. Locally, the Jack A. Markell (JAM) Trail is a standout favorite. This nearly eight-mile path connects the Wilmington Riverfront’s DuPont Environmental Education Center to Battery Park in Historic New Castle, weaving through scenic and historic landscapes.
For cycling enthusiasts, Wilmington raises the stakes with the Wilmington Grand Prix, a USA Cycling National Event happening, May 16-18, 2025. This three-day event features a grueling timed trial up Monkey Hill, thrilling criterium races, and community rides like the Major Taylor Community Ride and Gran Fondo, which includes exclusive access to du Pont estate properties. Ready to test your endurance? Register at wilmgrandprix.com.
11. EXPLORE A FIRST STATE JEWEL...
Wilmington is brimming with unexpected adventures, from freeform rock climbing at Alapocas Run State Park and sailing aboard the Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware, to ziplining through the treetops at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park in Lums Pond State Park. When visiting Downtown Wilmington, don't miss the historic Brandywine Zoo, a cherished destination nestled in Brandywine Park that has delighted visitors for over 100 years. Open year-round, the zoo offers unique experiences for all ages, from adult-only events like “Trivia Nights” and “Brew at the Zoo” to family-friendly favorites like “Boo at the Zoo” and “Noon Year’s Eve”. With its engaging atmosphere and rich history, the Brandywine Zoo remains a must-visit Wilmington attraction.
Brandywine Zoo
- Brandywine Park
Visit the Brandywine Zoo in Brandywine Park! A Delaware jewel in Wilmington, the Brandywine Zoo is a cool place to meet a lemur or condor, or a capybara up close. Awesome zoo for little ones to…