New Castle County Zip Code Map
If you’re planning a trip to New Castle County and want to make the most of your visit, you’ll need a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to hidden gems. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the county’s most exciting destinations, food scene, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, historical landmarks, and much more.
Top Attractions
New Castle County is home to a variety of exciting attractions that cater to all interests. If you’re a history buff, be sure to visit the Hagley Museum and Library, which tells the story of the DuPont family and their contributions to American industry. For art lovers, the Delaware Art Museum is a must-see, featuring works by local and international artists. And for nature enthusiasts, the Brandywine Zoo and the Delaware Nature Society offer up-close encounters with wildlife and educational exhibits.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, New Castle County also has its fair share of hidden gems. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to the Kalmar Nyckel Museum and Shipyard, where you can tour a replica of a 17th-century Dutch ship. Or, take a stroll through the Winterthur Museum and Gardens, which boasts a stunning collection of antiques and a picturesque landscape.
Food Scene
When it comes to food, New Castle County has something for everyone. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Farmer and the Cow, which serves up farm-to-table burgers and craft beer. If you’re in the mood for seafood, the Riverfront Market has a variety of options, including crab cakes and oysters. And for a sweet treat, be sure to visit the UDairy Creamery, which offers homemade ice cream in a variety of flavors.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Don’t worry โ there are plenty of ways to save money in New Castle County. Consider visiting during the off-season, when prices may be lower and crowds are thinner. You can also save money on food by opting for local markets and food trucks instead of restaurants. And if you’re looking for free activities, check out the county’s parks and trails, which offer hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, New Castle County has plenty to offer. Take a stroll through the Wilmington Riverwalk, which offers scenic views of the Christina River and a variety of shops and restaurants. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the Brandywine Creek State Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. And for a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the county’s picturesque landscape.
Historical Landmarks
New Castle County is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. The Old New Castle Courthouse, built in the 1700s, offers a glimpse into the county’s colonial past. The Fort Delaware State Park, located on an island in the Delaware River, served as a prison during the Civil War and now offers tours and reenactments. And the Nemours Mansion and Gardens, once the home of Alfred I. du Pont, features a stunning French-style mansion and formal gardens.
Family-Friendly Activities
New Castle County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to all ages. The Delaware Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that teach STEM concepts and encourage creativity. The Wilmington and Western Railroad offers scenic train rides through the county’s countryside. And the Brandywine Zoo has a variety of animals that kids will love, including red pandas and river otters.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider exploring some of New Castle County’s off-the-beaten-path experiences. The Fort Christina National Historic Landmark, located in Wilmington, is the site of the first Swedish settlement in North America. The Delaware Park Racetrack and Casino offers horse racing and gambling opportunities. And the Delaware Center for Horticulture offers gardening classes and workshops, as well as a beautiful garden to explore.
Natural Wonders
From beaches to mountains, New Castle County boasts a variety of natural wonders. The Delaware Bay beaches offer miles of pristine shoreline and opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The Brandywine Valley is home to rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, perfect for hiking and biking. And the White Clay Creek State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding and cross-country skiing.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, New Castle County has plenty of options. The Trolley Square neighborhood in Wilmington offers a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment. The Riverfront area also has a variety of options, including the Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball stadium and the Delaware Theatre Company. And for a unique experience, check out the Painted Stave Distilling, which offers craft cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients.
Local Markets
For a taste of local culture, be sure to check out some of New Castle County’s markets. The Wilmington Farmers Market, held on Wednesdays and Sundays, offers fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors. The Newark Farmers Market has a variety of international foods and spices. And the Historic New Castle Farmers Market features a variety of local products, including honey, cheese, and baked goods.
Beaches and Mountains
New Castle County offers a variety of natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains. The Delaware Bay beaches offer a quiet and peaceful escape from the city, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The White Clay Creek State Park, located in the rolling hills of northern Delaware, offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. And the Appalachian Mountains are just a short drive away, offering breathtaking scenery and opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
Cultural Immersion
New Castle County is home to a rich cultural history, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions. The Delaware Art Museum features a variety of exhibits and programs that celebrate local and international art. The Delaware Historical Society offers a glimpse into the county’s past, with exhibits and programs on colonial and Revolutionary War-era history. And the Wilmington Riverfront hosts a variety of multicultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating the county’s diverse communities.
Art and Music Scene
If you’re a fan of the arts, New Castle County has plenty to offer. The Grand Opera House, located in Wilmington, hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year. The Delaware Art Museum features a variety of exhibits and programs that celebrate local and international art. And the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, held annually in Rodney Square, showcases some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore New Castle County is on foot. The Wilmington Riverwalk offers a scenic stroll along the Christina River, with opportunities to stop at shops and restaurants along the way. The Historic New Castle Walking Tour offers a glimpse into the county’s colonial past, with stops at historic homes and buildings. And the Wilmington Art Loop, held on the first Friday of each month, offers a self-guided tour of local art galleries and studios.
Architectural Marvels
New Castle County is home to a variety of architectural marvels, from colonial-era homes to modern skyscrapers. The Nemours Mansion and Gardens features a stunning French-style mansion and formal gardens. The Hotel du Pont, located in downtown Wilmington, is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture. And the DuPont Building, also located in downtown Wilmington, features a stunning Art Deco lobby and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Historical Sites
If you’re a history buff, New Castle County is a treasure trove of historical sites. The Old New Castle Courthouse, built in the 1700s, offers a glimpse into the county’s colonial past. The Fort Delaware State Park, located on an island in the Delaware River, served as a prison during the Civil War and now offers tours and reenactments. And the Delaware History Museum, located in downtown Wilmington, features exhibits and programs on the state’s history and culture.
Biking Routes
New Castle County is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with a variety of scenic routes and trails. The Wilmington Riverwalk offers a paved path along the Christina River, with opportunities to stop at shops and restaurants along the way. The Junction and Breakwater Trail, located in nearby Sussex County, offers a scenic ride through Delaware’s coastal landscape. And the Brandywine Creek State Park has a variety of trails that offer both mountain biking and road biking opportunities.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, New Castle County has plenty of options. The Inn at Montchanin Village, located in a historic village just outside of Wilmington, offers a variety of spa treatments and wellness programs. The Nemours Estate, located in nearby Pennsylvania, features a stunning mansion and gardens, as well as a variety of wellness programs and yoga classes. And the Nemours/A.I. duPont Hospital for Children offers a variety of health and wellness programs for children and families.