Conveniently located near major U.S. cities like Philadelphia, New York City, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley offers a perfect getaway—no matter how long you have to explore.

Discover charming, eclectic cities and neighborhoods, tour art-filled museums and historic sites, wander through breathtaking parks, and savor a vibrant culinary scene featuring innovative restaurants, microbreweries, and wineries. Whether you’re here for just a few hours or an entire day, this ultimate guide provides expertly curated suggestions to help you make the most of your visit. 

Short & Sweet: 2 Hours in Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley

Only have a few moments to spare? Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Wilmington with a visit to one of its most iconic spots, Riverfront Wilmington. Enjoy a quick stroll along the water, where you’ll pass historic landmarks, restaurants, shops, and attractions—including mini golf and boat tours—for a brief yet memorable experience.

Another solid option is the Hagley Museum & Library, which offers a condensed experience of history and nature. Peruse the famous du Pont family’s original gunpowder mills, stroll along the bank of the Brandywine River, and view fascinating exhibits on early American industry. 

Afterward, grab a quick bite at a beloved local café or bakery, like Janssen’s Café, which serves a variety of breakfast items, including sandwiches and egg dishes, along with a coffee and tea bar featuring specialty drinks.

Explore a Little More: 4 Hours to Discover Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley

Spend a delightful morning or afternoon experiencing Wilmington’s top attractions

With some time on your hands, make Nemours Estate a must-stop. Tour the glamorous 77-room mansion,  the home’s chauffeur's garage with vintage automobiles, and 200 acres of French-inspired formal gardens, grounds, and woodlands. Then, head just a few minutes southwest to explore the neighborhood of Trolley Square. Drop in to Trolley Square Oyster House for a light seafood lunch featuring a classic raw bar and other seafood specialties. 

If you’re traveling with family, consider stopping by the ultra-picturesque Brandywine Park or other local favorites like the Brandywine Zoo, Delaware Children's Museum, or Delaware Museum of Nature & Science.

Half-Day Adventures: 6 Hours of Fun in Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley

Half-day visitors can truly uncover some of the diverse layers of Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley with thoughtfully planned itineraries suited to fit many different interests. 

Love du Pont history? Immerse yourself in the legacy of this iconic family with a visit to Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, home to an extraordinary collection of American decorative arts and 1,000 acres of rolling hills and breathtaking gardens. Afterward, savor a delicious lunch at the historic Buckley's Tavern before heading north for a delightful stroll through the flower-filled landscapes of Longwood Gardens.

Nature lovers should take advantage of the region’s natural beauty by hiking the scenic trails at Brandywine Creek State Park, where gorgeous views of the Brandywine River await. Cap off your adventure with an early dinner at Krazy Kat’s Restaurant, known for its seasonally-inspired cuisine in a cozy and eclectic setting.

Alternatively, history buffs can start their day in Historic New Castle, Delaware, a town brimming with Colonial charm. Wander through historic buildings, including the New Castle Court House Museum, where Delaware voted to secede from both the Crown and Pennsylvania, and explore the Read House & Gardens, a 14,000-square-foot marvel surrounded by picturesque gardens. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at Jessop's Tavern and Colonial Restaurant, which serves American, English, and Swedish fare. 

The Full-Day Experience: Dive Into All Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley has to Offer!

While taking in a quick visit is a great way to get an understanding of a destination, the best way to experience Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley is with a full-day trip (or weekend getaway) to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors this vibrant region has to offer. With no time restraints, you can fully indulge in the rich history and the unique culture. The best part? Whether you're exploring solo, with a partner, or with family, there’s something here for everyone.

Nature & History Lovers

Kick off your day with breakfast at Quinn’s Cafe in Hockessin, serving breakfast and brunch all day, including build-your-own omelets, French toast, and breakfast sandwiches. It’s near the next stop, Mt. Cuba Center, where serene walking paths and lush native plant displays offer a peaceful escape, all set on the grounds of a former du Pont estate. For a step back in time, visit the Marshall Steam Museum at Auburn Heights, home to an incredible collection of vintage automobiles and steam-powered vehicles that transport you to a bygone era. When it’s time for lunch, check out The Back Burner Restaurant, a cozy spot offering delicious American fare like soups, sandwiches, and comfort dishes in a charming setting. 

With a full day ahead, explore more of the region’s renowned public gardens, spanning over 3,000 acres. Visit the beautiful gardens at Marion Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar and Brandywine Park or iconic du Pont family estates such as Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, Longwood Gardens, Nemours Estate, and Hagley Museum & Library.

If you’re craving a bit more outdoor adventure, head to White Clay Creek State Park, where scenic hiking trails, peaceful picnic spots, and endless thrills await.

End your day at one of Wilmington’s exceptional steakhouses, such as Harry’s Savoy Grill or Bardea Steak. Here, a mix of beloved classics and trendy new spots serves perfectly crafted steak dishes.

For Families

Start your day with breakfast on the Riverfront Wilmington at the Riverfront Bakery, where freshly baked pastries, quiches, and crepes are paired with your choice of hot or cold-brewed coffee.

After breakfast, dive into all the family-friendly activities the Riverfront has to offer. Stroll through Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Delaware Children’s Museum, or challenge the whole family to a round of Riverwalk Mini Golf. If you’re up for an aquatic adventure, hop on a boat tour along the Christina River for a unique perspective. Nature enthusiasts will love the DuPont Environmental Education Center, where kids can learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. For an active option, rent bikes or take a walk along the Jack A. Markell Trail, which features scenic views along the Riverfront and stretches for miles.

For lunch, stop at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant on the Riverfront for delicious burgers, fresh salads, and a variety of craft beers brewed on-site.

If you have more time in your day—or want to venture beyond the Riverfront—consider heading to the Brandywine Zoo, where kids can meet a variety of animals and enjoy fun, family-friendly activities.  Depending on the season, you could also catch a Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball game or cheer on the Delaware Blue Coats basketball team.

Cap off the day with dinner on the Riverfront at Banks Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar, renowned for its fresh raw bar, award-winning crab cakes, and succulent lobster dishes.

Plan Your Ideal Trip

Now that you have a taste for what you can explore, it’s time to plan your own Greater Wilmington getaway! Use these suggestions as a starting point to make the most of your time in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley. Whether you're here for a few hours or the day, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Start planning your visit today!