The Ultimate Family Vacation Guide to Delaware
Just a short drive south of Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, Brandywine Creek State Park offers a lush retreat that families can explore together any time of year. The park’s multiple trails weave through woodlands and alongside the peaceful Brandywine Creek, with the Rocky Run Trail providing a gentle loop of about two miles perfect for kids and strollers. What sets this park apart is its connection to the Brandywine Valley’s rich artistic heritage—nearby are the famed Brandywine River Museum and studios once belonging to the Wyeth family of painters, making this an ideal spot to blend nature with culture. Spring and fall bring especially vibrant foliage, turning the park into a colorful playground for little adventurers.
The coastal town of Rehoboth Beach, about two hours south of Wilmington, is an iconic Delaware family destination that shines in summer’s warm months. Its broad sandy beach is accessible and calm, great for children learning to swim or families just seeking a seaside escape. The Rehoboth Boardwalk is a lively spot where kids can enjoy classic rides and games, while parents take in seaside shops and eateries serving fresh seafood. Beyond the beach, the nearby Cape Henlopen State Park, less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Rehoboth, offers miles of bike trails and a historic World War II observation tower to climb for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Sunrise visits here reveal spectacular coastal light and are perfect for early risers.
In Dover, Delaware’s capital located roughly 30 minutes southwest of Wilmington, the Air Mobility Command Museum invites families into the fascinating world of military aviation. Set on the grounds of Dover Air Force Base, the museum features a collection of historic aircraft including cargo planes and vintage fighter jets that visitors can explore up close. Kids often marvel at climbing aboard a massive C-5 Galaxy, one of the largest military aircraft in the world. The museum’s outdoor displays and interactive exhibits make it both educational and thrilling. Cooler months provide a more comfortable experience, as walking between planes can be hot in summer, but either way, it’s an engaging way for families to learn about America’s airpower history.
Heading east to the charming town of Lewes, about two and a half hours south of Wilmington near Delaware’s Atlantic coast, families will find the Zwaanendael Museum, a gem of local history housed in a striking Dutch Colonial-style building. The museum tells the story of Delaware’s earliest European settlers from the Netherlands and showcases maritime artifacts and Native American crafts. Its seaside location near the Delaware Bay makes it a peaceful stop, with nearby nature trails where children can spot migratory birds and salt marsh wildlife. Late spring and early fall are especially lovely times to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds, allowing families to soak in the quiet charm and history of this historic town.
For outdoor enthusiasts near the Delaware-Pennsylvania border, White Clay Creek State Park lies a mere 15-minute drive west of Wilmington and offers an expansive natural playground. The park’s White Clay Creek Trail system includes over 20 miles of hiking and biking paths winding through forests and meadows, with the popular Gateway Trail providing a manageable 2.5-mile loop for families. What distinguishes this park is the abundance of wild flora and fauna, including spring wildflowers and occasional sightings of deer and foxes. The park is especially magical during the fall foliage season when the trees blaze with color, making every walk feel like a nature movie set. Picnic areas along the water’s edge invite families to linger and enjoy the tranquil environment.
In the heart of Newark, roughly 15 miles southwest of Wilmington, the Delaware Museum of Natural History offers an immersive experience that captivates children and adults alike. Its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, live butterfly atrium, and exhibits on local Delaware wildlife provide interactive learning opportunities. The museum’s centerpiece is the Moyer Exhibit Hall, which features a detailed diorama of Delaware’s prehistoric past alongside displays of rare seashells and minerals. The museum is a great rainy-day destination, ensuring families can enjoy an engaging outing regardless of weather. Weekend visits tend to be livelier with special programs, but midweek offers a quieter environment for curious explorers.
Finally, just a 20-minute drive south of Wilmington, the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is a unique family destination that combines art, history, and sprawling gardens. Known for its extensive collection of American decorative arts housed in a grand former du Pont family estate, Winterthur invites children to discover period rooms full of antiques alongside the Enchanted Woods, a nature trail designed to engage young imaginations with storytelling and interactive features. The gardens bloom spectacularly in spring and summer, creating a sensory-rich setting for a family stroll. This blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Winterthur a standout destination where children can both learn and play.