Skip to main content
Nemours Estate museum in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Nemours Estate
View of Nemours Estate in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Cortney Ayers
View of Nemours Estate in Wilmington, DE
Photo: Melanie Weaver

Nemours Estate

4.8(1,087 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger elementary-aged children enjoy the open spaces for exploring and seasonal scavenger hunts, while tweens and teens appreciate the mansion tours and historical significance of this du Pont family estate.

About

The Nemours Estate offers families a chance to step back in time while exploring 300 acres of breathtaking formal gardens, fountains, and tree-lined pathways. Kids can run free on expansive lawns, discover hidden garden nooks, and participate in hands-on family programs that bring the estate's fascinating history to life in age-appropriate ways.

Highlights

  • Spectacular formal French gardens with colorful seasonal plantings
  • Impressive fountains and reflecting pools throughout the grounds
  • Wide open lawns perfect for kids to explore and play
  • Seasonal family events including garden scavenger hunts and holiday celebrations
  • Guided mansion tours showcasing the opulent du Pont family lifestyle

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right when they open to enjoy the gardens before afternoon heat and tour groups arrive
  2. 2.Bring a blanket for picnicking on the great lawn areas where kids can play between garden explorations
  3. 3.Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll cover significant ground exploring the expansive grounds
  4. 4.Check their event calendar before visiting for special family days with activities like garden games, crafts, and seasonal celebrations
  5. 5.Don't miss the reflection pool and fountains near the mansion - kids are mesmerized by the water features

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings in spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) when gardens are at their peak, temperatures are comfortable for walking, and crowds are lighter. Weekend family events are wonderful but draw larger crowds.

What to Know

Admission fees apply for both garden and mansion tours (check website for current pricing and combination tickets). The estate has ample free parking, but outside food is typically not permitted in certain areas, so confirm picnic policies when you arrive.

Seasonal Notes

The estate is typically open May through December (closed January-April). Spring blooms and fall foliage are spectacular. Special holiday events in November-December feature festive decorations throughout the mansion and gardens.

Nearby Eats

Head to Charcoal Pit (10 minutes away) for classic burgers and milkshakes kids love, or try Iron Hill Brewery in nearby Pike Creek for a family-friendly menu with something for everyone including a dedicated kids' menu.

More Activities Near Wilmington

Adventure

Taconite Creek

Free

Taconite Creek offers families a wonderful escape into nature just outside Wilmington, where kids can wade in shallow creek waters, explore woodland trails, and discover local wildlife. This peaceful outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for building fairy houses, skipping stones, and letting children connect with the natural world at their own pace.

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.

Park

Wawaset Park

Free

Wawaset Park is a beloved Wilmington destination where families can spend an entire day enjoying top-notch outdoor amenities. The park features well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, a refreshing splash pad perfect for hot summer days, and plenty of open green space for picnics and free play. With sports facilities and shaded picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for both active adventures and relaxing family gatherings.

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.