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Delaware Children's Museum tourist attraction in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Delaware Children's Museum
View of Delaware Children's Museum in Wilmington, DE
Photo: R Houseman
View of Delaware Children's Museum in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Heather Mott

Delaware Children's Museum

4.6(1,846 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-8. Toddlers enjoy the sensory-rich exhibits and safe exploration areas, while preschool and early elementary kids thrive with the art studios, building activities, and imaginative play zones that match their developmental stages.

About

Delaware Children's Museum offers an imaginative wonderland of hands-on learning designed specifically for young children. With rotating interactive exhibits, creative art studios, and an outdoor learning garden, this museum transforms playtime into educational adventures that engage all the senses while parents appreciate the thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage exploration and creativity.

Highlights

  • Hands-on art studios where kids can paint, sculpt, and create take-home masterpieces
  • Interactive STEM exhibits that make learning about science and building fun
  • Outdoor learning garden with nature exploration and seasonal activities
  • Imaginative play areas including pretend shops, construction zones, and kid-sized environments
  • Rotating special exhibits that keep repeat visits fresh and exciting

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right at 10 AM opening on weekdays (Wednesday-Thursday) for the quietest experience before school groups arrive mid-morning
  2. 2.The outdoor learning garden is a hidden gem that many visitors overlook,spend time here for a calming break between high-energy indoor exhibits
  3. 3.Bring socks for kids as some areas require shoes off, and pack a change of clothes if visiting during nice weather since outdoor activities can get messy
  4. 4.Check their website before visiting for special programming like art workshops or STEM activities that are included with admission
  5. 5.Park in the Justison Landing lot directly adjacent to the museum for easiest access with strollers and young children

Best Time to Visit

Wednesday or Thursday mornings right at opening offer the best experience with smaller crowds. Weekends and school holidays can get busy, especially 11 AM-2 PM. Avoid Monday and Tuesday when the museum is closed.

What to Know

General admission is around $12-14 per person (check website for current pricing and membership options). Free parking is available nearby, and while there's no café on-site, you can bring snacks or find numerous restaurants within walking distance in the Riverfront area.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with indoor climate-controlled exhibits. The outdoor learning garden is most enjoyable spring through fall. Special holiday programming and seasonal exhibits are offered throughout the year, particularly during school breaks.

Nearby Eats

The Riverfront area offers plenty of family options including Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (half block away with kids menu) and Grain H2O Craft Bar & Kitchen which welcomes families for lunch with riverside views.

More Activities Near Wilmington

Museum

Delaware Museum of Nature & Science

4.6$$

The Delaware Museum of Nature & Science offers an enriching hands-on experience where kids can explore lifelike wildlife dioramas, get up close with dinosaur exhibits, and engage with interactive discovery rooms. With its impressive 4.6-star rating from over 1,100 families, this Wilmington gem provides the perfect blend of education and entertainment that keeps children curious and parents happy.

Museum

Delaware Art Museum

4.6$$

The Delaware Art Museum offers a wonderfully interactive experience where kids don't just look at art,they create it! With dedicated children's studios, hands-on galleries, and family-focused programming, this museum makes art accessible and exciting for young visitors. The welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully designed spaces encourage exploration and creativity without the stuffy, don't-touch vibe of traditional museums.

Nature

Ashland Nature Center

Free

Ashland Nature Center offers families 400 acres of pristine Delaware countryside to explore together through interactive nature programs, scenic hiking trails, and hands-on wildlife observation opportunities. Kids can get their hands dirty examining pond creatures, spotting local wildlife, and participating in seasonal nature education programs that make outdoor learning fun and memorable.

Park

Riverfront

Free

The Riverfront in Wilmington offers families a perfect blend of urban park amenities and scenic waterside relaxation. Kids can cool off in the splash pad during summer, explore multiple playgrounds, and enjoy wide-open spaces for running around, all while parents take in beautiful views of the Christina River and city skyline. The paved walking trails are ideal for strollers, bikes, and scooters, making it accessible for families with children of all ages.