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!

The Best Places to Stay in Wilmington

For a grand & central stay

• Hotel du Pont is a luxurious property in the heart of Wilmington, just 10 minutes' walk from the Grand Opera House, the University and the DuPont Theatre. Book one of more than two hundred elegant guestrooms, and savour fabulous French fare at the hotel's award-winning restaurant, The Green Room. Lavish opulence for couples, business travellers or families in the centre of the city.

For historic charm

• The Inn & Spa at Montchanin Village is a cluster of 11 beautifully-restored historic houses featuring 28 indulgent rooms and suites just outside town. Pick this place for period charm and absolute tranquility, with a superb spa, lovely gardens and top-notch food. Great for a romantic getaway, striking wedding or group golfing trip.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Philadelphia Airport (PHL) and take a short train or taxi ride to Wilmington from there. The overland journey should take less than an hour.
• Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching 30°C and above in June, July and August. For slightly cooler weather, come during the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October), when the city will also be less crowded.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Delaware.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in nearby New Jersey.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

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