Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Claymont, Delaware

Claymont is situated on the western bank of the Delaware River, just north of Wilmington in New Castle County, Delaware.

The town had an approximate population of 13,000 residents as reported in 2018, and it is located only a few miles from Pennsylvania to the north and New Jersey to the east.

Moreover, its proximity to Interstate 95 enables travelers to access an array of attractions within and beyond the state with relative ease.

The region is especially recognized for its state parks, museums, and historical sites, with gaming and beaches within a short drive.

Here are 15 engaging activities to experience in and around Claymont, Delaware.

1. Darley House

The Darley House stands as one of Claymont’s most significant historic attractions. It was formerly inhabited by an illustrious illustrator named F.O.C. Darley, who lived during the 1800s.

Darley’s illustrations adorned the works of renowned authors of the period, such as Washington Irving and James Fenimore Cooper.

The locals commonly refer to the Darley House as The Wren’s Nest, as that is the name Darley assigned to it after acquisition in the 1860s.

While the house is currently not open for tours, a plaque is situated outside. This is one of those local attractions that merits a brief visit.

2. Charlie’s Pizza

For many families traveling with children, pizza constitutes a vital component of their vacation dining experience, and Claymont is home to several popular pizzerias.

Charlie’s Pizza, located on the Philadelphia Pike near downtown, is renowned for its traditional New Jersey-style pizza, widely considered the finest in the town.

The establishment is characterized as a cozy eatery, which contributes significantly to its appeal, especially when contrasted with chain pizza outlets that may lack unique charm.

Their pizzas are available in various sizes and come with a diverse selection of crust and topping choices. Previous patrons attest to the excellence of their cheesesteaks as well.

3. Darley Beer, Wine & Music Festival

Although it has only been celebrated for three years, the Darley Beer, Wine & Music Festival has garnered a devoted audience. It has quickly become one of the town’s most awaited annual gatherings.

This event takes place at the beginning of October, a time when the weather is usually ideal for outdoor activities. As its name suggests, it showcases an array of delightful alcoholic beverages and music spanning various genres.

Much of the beer and wine served is produced locally and regionally, with most performers being popular local acts. The festival also includes an assortment of food and arts and crafts.

4. Brandywine Creek State Park

Despite being one of the smallest states in the nation, Delaware features a remarkable number of state parks; many of which are located in the northern region, close to Claymont.

Brandywine Creek State Park, positioned just outside Wilmington, remains open year-round and provides a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors.

This park was one of the first official preserved areas in the state, established in the mid-1960s. It is particularly popular among hikers, cyclists, bird watchers, and anglers.

Brandywine Creek is highly sought after by trout fishing enthusiasts during the season; however, a Delaware fishing license is required to participate.

5. Nemours Mansion

The extraordinarily affluent DuPont family has owned numerous luxurious residences throughout the state for over a century, including the magnificent Nemours Mansion.

This residence, located in Wilmington, was constructed to mimic a European alpine lodge. It is currently owned and managed by a local historical foundation and is accessible to the public.

The home and its furnishings are nearly all original, showcasing exquisite housewares, furniture, and art pieces that evoke a European ambiance rather than a typical Delaware aesthetic.

6. Delaware Museum of Natural History

Natural history may often be overshadowed by the wealth of human history attractions in The First State, yet for those seeking a change of pace, the Delaware Museum of Natural History is a splendid location to spend a few hours.

Located on Kennett Pike in Wilmington, which is a short drive from Claymont, the museum exhibits themes surrounding animals, the natural world, dinosaurs, and ecology.

Many installations have interactive elements, making it particularly suitable for active children who seek engagement, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity.

Guided tours and special events are frequently offered, so it is advisable to check their website prior to your visit.

7. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts

Delaware’s historical roots extend back several centuries, predating the establishment of the country, and for many visitors, historical attractions typically dominate their itinerary.

Nonetheless, the state is also home to a vibrant art community, with the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts being the foremost museum of its type in the region.

Established in the late 1970s, its primary mission focuses on showcasing and promoting the work of local and regional contemporary artists while providing the community with accessible art opportunities.

Furthermore, the center’s staff conducts workshops catering to aspiring artists of various ages and skill levels.

8. Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife refuges are generally located in rural settings that require considerable travel to reach. However, visitors to Claymont and Wilmington can access a unique natural attraction positioned in the heart of one of the state’s largest urban centers.

The Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge is situated along the Delaware River, offering an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers who prefer to remain close to urban amenities.

This refuge features a network of trails and elevated walkways, providing opportunities for wildlife observation. Informative signs and seating areas accompany the trails for rest and education.

9. Bob Carpenter Center

College and university campuses frequently offer valuable community resources that are often overlooked by travelers.

Located in Newark on the University of Delaware campus, the Bob Carpenter Center serves as the home for the Blue Hen’s women’s and men’s basketball and volleyball teams.

Compared to larger educational institutions, tickets to the University of Delaware sporting events are reasonably priced and readily available. When games are not occurring, the center often accommodates other events, including minor league NBA games, live music performances, and arts and crafts festivals.

Inspect their event calendar online to learn about upcoming happenings during your visit.

10. Christiana Mall

Delaware recognized the economic benefits of eliminating retail sales tax early on. Consequently, it attracts shoppers from surrounding areas seeking significant savings on an extensive range of products, including vehicles, clothing, electronics, and sports equipment.

Christiana Mall represents the state’s premier shopping destination. Initially established in the late 1970s, it has undergone numerous renovations and presents a contemporary appeal comparable to newer competitors.

It showcases major national retailers such as Barnes & Noble, Nordstrom, and Cabelas, along with a sizable movie theater and an array of excellent dining options.

11. Iron Hill Park

Iron Hill Park encompasses over 300 picturesque acres, conveniently located on the Old Baltimore Pike in Newark.

This park is equipped with amenities that appeal to a diverse range of visitors. It is particularly popular among pet owners due to its designated dog park, which features separate areas for large and small dogs.

In addition to multi-use trails and an expansive playground, the park also hosts a disc golf course, providing an enjoyable alternative to traditional golf.

Many guests capitalize on the park’s plentiful picnic facilities, especially during the mild spring and earliest fall months.

12. Cooch’s Bridge

Approximately 250 years ago, Cooch’s Bridge witnessed a significant battle during the Revolutionary War, and it is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

While most of the original bridge is no longer intact, the site contains various monuments and informative markers that outline the battle’s importance. For numerous visitors, it is particularly moving to learn about the lives of the soldiers who lost their lives on-site and the implications of their sacrifices for the nation.

While many guests opt for a self-guided exploration, engaging guided tours are also available for those seeking a more comprehensive experience.

13. The Hale-Byrnes House

The Hale-Byrnes House is another historic attraction in Delaware that is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

This residence was originally constructed in the 1750s and is renowned as the site of a meeting between George Washington and military leaders prior to the confrontation at Cooch’s Bridge involving American and British forces.

Over the years, the home has also hosted several notable families. It features distinctive colonial-era architecture and other historically significant memorabilia.

Hours of operation are seasonal, and the house is not open to the public every day; therefore, prior online verification of visiting hours is recommended.

14. White Clay Creek State Park

Established in the late 1960s, White Clay Creek State Park encompasses over 3,000 acres in New Castle County, situated not far from Claymont.

The park’s centerpiece is Clay Creek, which flows nearly 20 miles through diverse and undisturbed natural landscapes.

Numerous trails trace the creek’s course and are popular with walkers, cyclists, amateur nature photographers, and bird watchers. Additionally, a nature center is located on-site.

Staff members organize various regularly scheduled activities, including outdoor exploration suitable for individuals of all ages, along with insights into the area’s historical features.

15. Resident Ensemble Players

The Resident Ensemble Players is yet another remarkable feature of the University of Delaware and is a favored destination for enthusiasts of live theater throughout the state.

Throughout the year, the Resident Ensemble Players stage numerous productions that span from thought-provoking classics to lighter, contemporary performances. Many theater enthusiasts agree that the quality often rivals that of larger venues.

Tickets are generally affordable; however, they may sell out quickly for popular performances during peak times. Therefore, securing tickets in advance is advisable to avoid missing out on favored shows.