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Delaware Museum of Nature & Science museum in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
View of Delaware Museum of Nature & Science in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
View of Delaware Museum of Nature & Science in Wilmington, DE
Photo: James Hynes

Delaware Museum of Nature & Science

4.6(1,105 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the hands-on discovery rooms where they can touch and explore, while elementary-aged kids are captivated by the dinosaur exhibits and detailed wildlife dioramas that bring natural history to life.

About

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.

Highlights

  • Interactive hands-on discovery rooms where kids can touch specimens and explore
  • Impressive dinosaur exhibits featuring fossils and life-sized models
  • Realistic wildlife dioramas showcasing animals in their natural habitats
  • Engaging exhibits about the natural world that spark curiosity in budding scientists
  • Regular educational programs and special events for families

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right at opening (9:30 AM) on weekdays for the quietest experience and best access to popular hands-on exhibits
  2. 2.The discovery rooms are the biggest hit with young kids,plan to spend extra time there and bring hand sanitizer
  3. 3.Parking is free on-site, making this an easy stop without the hassle of finding street parking
  4. 4.Pack snacks and drinks since food options are limited inside the museum
  5. 5.Visit on a rainy day,this is the perfect indoor activity that keeps kids engaged for hours

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings between 9:30-11:00 AM offer the calmest experience before school groups arrive. Avoid weekday afternoons during the school year when field trips are scheduled, and expect larger crowds on weekend afternoons.

What to Know

Check the museum's website for current admission prices and any special exhibit fees. Free parking is available on-site, and the facility is wheelchair accessible with elevators to all floors.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours seven days a week. The museum occasionally hosts special seasonal events and holiday programs,check their calendar for themed activities during winter break, spring, and summer months.

Nearby Eats

Head to Brew HaHa! (about 2 miles away) for kid-friendly sandwiches and treats, or visit Talleyrand Park's picnic areas just minutes down the road for a packed lunch with playground fun afterward.

More Activities Near Wilmington

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4.6$$

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.

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Delaware Art Museum

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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

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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

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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.