The joy of Wilmington, Delaware’s largest city, is its easy combination of culture and countryside, ideal for outdoorsy explorers and history buffs alike. Accommodation options in and around the city include grand hotels, charming inns and self-catering cottages suited to a range of budgets. Our pick of the best places to stay in Wilmington promises both period charm and contemporary comforts, as well as a great base for visiting the city and the popular Brandywine Valley.
Sitting at the confluence of three rivers — the Christina, the Brandywine and the Delaware — Wilmington brims with historic buildings and cultural attractions in a superbly scenic setting. The city centre features a host of fantastic museums, including the Delaware Children’s Museum and the Delaware History Museum, housed in the former Art Deco Woolworth’s building. Sports aficionados will be particularly intrigued by the Sports Museum and the Hall of Fame.
If it’s art that you’re after, the work of Edward Hopper and John Sloan, members of the local Brandywine School, is showcased at the Delaware Art Museum. There are innovative exhibitions at the striking Delaware Centre for the Contemporary Arts, too, set in the recently redeveloped Riverfront district. This is also a lively spot for shopping, food and drink, with trendy shops and buzzing eateries to sample and savour. Kids will especially adore the IMAX Theatre and the winter ice-skating rink!
Just a few miles north of downtown Wilmington lies the gorgeous Brandywine Valley, home to a string of country estates with impressive gardens. Admire the 1000 acres of Longwood Gardens, or marvel at the American decorative arts on display at the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library. The 18th-century Versailles-inspired mansion at Nemours Estate is also not to be missed. With miles of walking trails, winery tours, golf, birdwatching, canoeing and kayaking, the Brandywine Valley is a fantastic place for couples, families or groups of friends to discover.
Whether you’re in town for the many museums, the picturesque river kayaking or the wineries, Wilmington is a charming choice for an East Coast trip. Look out for an exciting programme of annual events — from theatre to food — and time your visit accordingly. The best places to stay in Wilmington fill up fast, so book your stay well in advance!
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Wilmington (Delaware)
A cluster of 11 historic houses restored into this charming hotel. Private, uniquely designed buildings feature rooms with modern marble bathrooms, four poster beds, and gardens. Superb spa offering massages, facials, and treatments. A magical, relaxing retreat.
Wilmington (Delaware)
A luxurious hotel located in the heart of lively Wilmington. A breathtaking classical interior boasts grandeur and opulence. Large rooms fuse contemporary and traditional styles. Magnificent dining and banquet rooms serve food from the award-wining French restaurant 'The Green Room'.
Wilmington (Delaware)
Boutique hotel in historic Downtown. Vintage furniture, rich textures and elegant wallpaper create a classy, romantic feel. There's an opulent basement lounge, leafy courtyard, rooftop bar for craft cocktails and restaurant serving Southern French and Italian cuisine. Understated grown-up glamour.
