Spring is well on its way, which means it is the ideal time to make plans for coming out of hibernation and getting away to new destinations, near and far, with your loved ones in the coming months.
While Delaware is within fairly close proximity to large metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., New York City and Philadelphia, making it easy to get your big-city fix as needed, you don’t actually have to travel far for fun, recreation and entertainment. There are plenty of attractions and activities in Delaware and the general vicinity to keep you occupied this spring.
One appealing aspect of living in Delaware is the diversity of historical, cultural and natural attractions located within state lines. Whether you are in the process of planning fun activities for your children’s spring break or a getaway with your partner or friends, Delaware has a destination that can serve as the backdrop for your desired adventures. Here are a few fun and interesting places to visit in Delaware this spring:
Bicycle enthusiasts and those with a spirit of adventure will enjoy getting out on the Jack A. Markell Trail this spring. The roughly 8-mile trail, which was built on an old railroad line, provides a direct shot from the Wilmington Riverfront to New Castle’s historic Battery Park. Along the way, you will traverse a bridge over the Christina River, a long boardwalk through the Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge, two well-lit tunnels, and a wooded section.
The Delaware Children’s Museum is a must-see destination during your Delaware family vacation. The mission of the museum is to “develop creative minds through the power of playful learning.” There are numerous exhibits and interactive displays that connect young people to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as scheduled events and the opportunity to rent the facility for birthday parties. The museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, with a special “$5 Fridays After 5 p.m.” event that features special extended hours, unique programming, and discounted pricing.
The scenic 1.3-mile Wilmington Riverfront is brimming with things to do in the spring. For an adult outing, head to Constitution Yards, a sprawling beer garden on the riverwalk that offers classic BBQ, music, wood-burning fire pits, weekly holiday movie nights, and backyard games. If you want to spend an afternoon with your children or grandchildren, take in a movie at the Penn Cinema Riverfront 14 + IMAX on South Madison Street. Get some exercise by strolling along the preserved marshlands of the DuPont Environmental Education Center to Tubman-Garret Riverfront Park and grab a bite to eat at one of the dozens of restaurants near the riverwalk..
For a weekend getaway to Pennsylvania, plan a visit to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square. This botanical garden consists of roughly 1,100 acres of gardens, woodlands and meadows nestled within the stunning landscape of Brandywine Creek Valley. Longwood’s breathtaking displays elevate the art of horticulture. The spring season at Longwood typically starts around mid-March. There’s a picnic area that is open to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can dine at The Terrace, a Certified Green Restaurant.
Whether your interest lies in historic attractions or quirky destinations, make sure your spring getaway plans in Delaware include a visit to the Deer Park Tavern. The tavern has been a Newark landmark since 1851, when it was built in place of the former St. Patrick’s Inn. Deer Park Tavern is a unique place for fun social gatherings that also provides patrons with delicious food, draft beer, wine and spirits. Saturday’s brunch is generally served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or you can visit for Sunday Funday and get a customized Bloody Mary.
Fort Delaware State Park is set to reopen in April 2021, and it makes for a great family outing in Delaware. The State of Delaware deeded Pea Patch Island, located in the Delaware River between Delaware and New Jersey, to the federal government in 1813. Fort Delaware was built around 1859 to protect the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia. Pea Patch Island also became a Union prison camp during the Civil War. Currently, you can hike the Prison Camp Trail through the Pea Patch Island Nature Preserve, walk around the exterior of the fort and learn more about the history of the site from costumed interpreters.
Spring is a nice time of year to vacation at the beach before the summer crowds arrive. Rehoboth Beach is considered one of the best coastal destinations in the state. The small town of Rehoboth Beach includes a mile-long boardwalk fronting the Atlantic Ocean that is lined with shops, restaurants, lodging accommodations and amusements. Other breathtaking Delaware beaches to consider for your spring vacation include Bethany Beach, Lewes Beach and Dewey Beach.
Spring is the ideal season for going on day trips or weekend getaways with your loved ones, as well as sprucing up your home—inside and out. If you have major home renovation projects to tackle this year, consider contracting with Bromwell Construction Company. We can oversee every aspect of your remodeling project, giving you more time and energy to spend on making memories and having fun with your family and friends.