As the air turns crisp and the foliage bursts into stunning shades of red, orange, and gold, Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley becomes the ultimate fall destination. Whether you're a frequent visitor or new to the area, this season brings fresh opportunities to experience its unique charm. To help you make the most of your autumn adventure, we've gathered five must-do activities and events that capture the very essence of fall in our region. Get ready to discover the magic of Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley this season!
1. Fall Foliage Drives
Grab your favorite travel companions and embark on a picturesque journey through Wilmington's Brandywine Valley. The Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway and other scenic drives promise stunning landscapes that are nothing short of Insta-worthy. Who says summer gets to have all the travel fun? Fall unveils some of the country's best-kept secrets, and you'll want to capture every moment.
Who says summer is peak travel season? This fall you can experience an unforgettable weekend road trip with your spouse, closest friends…
Moonloop Photography
2. Fall Fun on the Railroad
Take a step back in time and hop aboard the Wilmington and Western Railroad, one of the area’s oldest landmarks. Originally chartered in 1867 to transport goods, it's now your ride to an extraordinary adventure. This historic railway chugs through 10 miles of picturesque tracks, offering scenic views of Wilmington's suburbs and the Red Clay Valley Scenic Byway. Keep an eye out for the Autumn Leaf Special and other exciting fall events in October and November.
The Wilmington and Western Railroad, originally chartered in 1867 to facilitate the transport of goods from the Red Clay Creek mills to the Port of Wilmington, has a rich history of evolution and…
3. Fall on the Farm
Pumpkins, hayrides, and corn mazes—fall wouldn't be complete without them! Head to Ramsey's Farm, just north of downtown Wilmington, for a family-friendly autumn experience. The Ramsey family has owned and operated this farm since 1995, making it the perfect spot for seasonal fun. Don't forget to check out their Instagram page for stunning aerial views of the 2023 Corn Maze and updates on the Ramsey Market's latest events and products.
Located 1 mile from Concord Mall off Rt. 92. U-pick pumpkins, hayrides, parties, special events, corn/other kids mazes, food and more FALL FUN! Weekday/Weekend School-Group-Evening tours and events…
4. Spooky Adventures
Prepare for spine-tingling thrills this fall at Delaware's haunted hotspots. Join the New Castle Historical Society for Hauntings in History tours throughout New Castle, where you'll delve into eerie tales of ghosts, legends, and chilling funerary practices. Old Swedes Historic Site's ancient cemetery calls ONLY the brave as visitors wander through centuries-old graves, where some say restless spirits linger. Explore the dark past of Fort Delaware, a former Civil War POW camp, offering Paranormal Adventures and Victorian Halloween events. Rockwood Park & Museum, known for housing a spirit or two, invites any who dares to investigate its eerie interior and haunted grounds.
Once the chill in the air becomes apparent, we can officially say the fall season is upon us! Nights are getting longer, pumpkins are plentiful, and there are strange encounters along with…
Moonloop
5. Du Pont Mansion Tours
The legacy of the Du Pont family is woven deeply into the fabric of Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley. The former estates have blossomed into cultural attractions, and fall is the ideal time to explore them. Hagley Museum and Library, with its historic gunpowder manufacturing site, offers a glimpse into the family's industrial heritage. Nemours Estate showcases French-inspired formal gardens created by Alfred A.I. DuPont himself. Mt. Cuba Center shares its premier plant garden formerly owned by Mr. and Mrs. Lammot du Pont Copeland. Finally, Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, once home to Henry Francis DuPont, houses an awe-inspiring collection of American decorative arts.
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Brandywine Valley…
Your autumn adventure awaits in Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley. Whether you choose to explore fall foliage, ride historic railroads, revel in the DuPont legacy, or put your bravery level to the test, Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley has it all. Create your own fall road trip itinerary and be sure to share your adventures with us using #VisitWilm on Instagram.
Take Advantage of the Season in #VisitWilm
Author
Jessica Horstmann
Digital Marketing Manager at the Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau
About Jessica: When I moved to Delaware at ten, I discovered a state that offers both the excitement of city life and the peaceful charm of the countryside, all within close reach. Delaware may be small, but it’s packed with surprising and memorable experiences, from vibrant attractions to hidden gems. As a fellow traveler and adventure-seeker, I’m excited to share the First State’s best-kept secrets with you. Follow along with my blogs, and see for yourself why Delaware is small yet mighty—there’s always something new to explore!
