Top 15 Attractions in Wilmington Manor, Delaware

Wilmington Manor is a municipality with approximately 10,000 residents situated in north-central Delaware’s New Castle County.

It is strategically located along the western bank of the Delaware River, positioned between Wilmington to the north, Newark to the west, and New Castle to the south.

As with many of the state’s towns and cities, Wilmington Manor is surrounded by an abundance of historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, shopping venues, and substantial state parks located to the north.

Day trips to nearby beaches are also popular, alongside gaming and auto racing experiences offered in Dover.

Here are 15 notable attractions in and around Wilmington Manor, Delaware.

1. Kalmar Nyckel

The Kalmar Nyckel stands as one of the most emblematic symbols of the First State; this historic replica of the sailing vessel plays a significant role in Delaware’s rich heritage and serves as a prominent tourist destination.

The ship is crewed by experienced sailors and knowledgeable local historians. Although weather conditions may occasionally hinder tours, the experience aboard the Kalmar Nyckel frequently becomes a highlight of visitors’ trips.

Typically, tours last several hours and encompass segments on the Christina and Delaware Rivers and within the Delaware Bay.

Admission prices are affordable, and it is advisable to bring along sunscreen, bottled water, and hats to ensure a pleasant experience.

2. Rockwood Mansion and Museum

Travelers with an interest in history visiting Delaware can occupy themselves for days exploring the state’s diverse museums, with the Rockwood Mansion and Museum being among the most favored options in the Wilmington Manor vicinity.

This mansion showcases stunning gothic architecture and was initially constructed in the mid-1850s.

For a significant portion of its history, it served as the residence of a prominent local family, containing exquisite period art, furniture, and artifacts reflecting the opulence of that era.

The entrance fee is budget-friendly, and for those with versatile schedules, free admission is available on the first Sunday of each month.

3. Three Ddd’s Steaks & Hoagies

Although neighboring New Jersey and Philadelphia typically attract attention for their exceptional pizza and sandwiches, Delaware has quietly cultivated its own noteworthy reputation in recent years.

Three Ddd’s Steaks and Hoagies is conveniently situated on Moores Lane in New Castle, catering to enthusiasts of Jersey and Philly-style cheesesteaks, traditional pizzas, and Italian cold cut subs.

It is rumored that they offer generous portions and also pride themselves on using fresh ingredients for their bread, dough, sauces, and cheeses.

Their menu also includes wraps, salads, and sandwiches. Additionally, takeout options are available for those pressed for time.

4. Rogers Manor Park

In their pursuit of visiting popular tourist spots, many travelers tend to overlook local parks.

However, for discerning travelers seeking exercise and budget-friendly activities, such parks provide valuable community amenities that should not be underestimated.

Rogers Manor Park is located a short distance from downtown Wilmington Manor, offering tennis courts, baseball fields, open spaces, and paved paths ideal for leisurely strolls.

Several of Wilmington Manor’s finest dining establishments are also nearby, and visitors can often enjoy complimentary little league baseball and softball games.

5. The Dove Diner

While national restaurant chains dominate much of the country, those preferring homemade meals and local business support still have plenty of options.

The Dove Diner, located just minutes from Wilmington Manor off Interstate 95, is described as charming, cozy, and welcoming.

Patrons should not anticipate formal waitstaff or elaborate settings, but they can expect traditional fare at reasonable prices within a casual environment.

Popular menu items include club sandwiches, soups, salads, chicken croquettes, and hearty breakfast selections such as omelets, home fries, fresh juice, and steaming coffee.

Fruits and oatmeal are also available for patrons mindful of their dietary intake.

6. Old New Castle

While it may not enjoy the same fame as historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia, New Castle remains one of the most well-preserved towns of its kind in the mid-Atlantic.

Its history extends back to the time of the American Revolution, featuring quaint cobblestone streets, historic pubs, and numerous preserved sites that are both educational and enjoyable.

Old New Castle is easily navigated on foot, and those preferring a guided experience have some options available.

7. Winterthur

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the affluent DuPont family owned several grand mansions across the state.

Winterthur, located in Wilmington, was once the residence of Henry Francis du Pont and is presently open to the public via both guided and self-guided tours.

The mansion features nearly 200 rooms reminiscent of European royalty, leaving most visitors astonished by the extraordinary wealth that facilitated such a lavish lifestyle.

The estate is adorned with stunning gardens interconnected by paved pathways, and many visitors tend to spend approximately three to four hours exploring the grounds.

8. Iron Hill Science Center

In previous years, families traveling with children faced limited opportunities for engaging and educational activities. Fortunately, this situation has since transformed.

The Iron Hill Science Center, located on Robert L. Melson Lane in Newark, stands as one of Delaware’s leading attractions.

Its hands-on exhibits cover a diverse array of topics, from meteorology and technology to zoology, art, history, and geology, ensuring that boredom is rarely a factor.

Although designed primarily with children in mind, the center is generally popular among older youths and their parents as well.

9. Fred Rust Ice Arena

Owing to its coastal position, Delaware experiences relatively mild winters compared to its landlocked neighbors such as Pennsylvania and Maryland.

Nevertheless, it is home to one of the region’s most renowned ice-skating rinks, conveniently located on the University of Delaware campus in Newark.

The Fred Rust Ice Arena is well-regarded as a training hub for elite figure skaters. While its rinks often host hockey leagues and figure skating competitions, they frequently accommodate public skating sessions as well.

Skates and helmets are available to rent, but it is wise to verify the event calendar on their website prior to planning a visit.

10. Read House

The Read House, located in the historic downtown area of New Castle, was constructed in the early 1800s.

The inaugural owner, a distinguished attorney and businessman, had a father who signed both the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

Built in the Federalist style characteristic of the era, the house encompasses more than a dozen rooms and nearly 15,000 square feet of indoor space.

It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and welcomes visitors and tour groups from Wednesday to Sunday, from April to December each year.

11. White Clay Creek State Park

Situated in Delaware’s northwestern region, White Clay Creek State Park is positioned near the intersection of Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

Spanning over 3,000 acres, it connects with a nature preserve of the same name across the Pennsylvania border.

The park’s namesake creek meanders for nearly 20 miles through a variety of natural habitats, teeming with wildlife, offering opportunities for observation along its multi-use trails.

A nature center is also present near the park entrance, making it a good starting point for visitors prior to their excursions into nature.

12. Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania ranks among the most beloved attractions, presenting a captivating fusion of natural and man-made landscapes that mesmerize many visitors.

While the gardens attract the largest crowds during the spring bloom, their charm persists throughout the year.

The property was initially acquired by the DuPont family to conserve local trees that would have been cleared for agriculture.

Longwood Gardens is often regarded as one of the country’s most magnificent, frequently hosting special events, particularly during the Christmas season with its stunning light displays.

13. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant

Located on East Main Street in Newark, Iron Hill Brewery and Restaurant began with modest beginnings and has quickly risen in prominence.

Iron Hill’s brews offer a wide array of colors, flavors, and alcohol levels, with seasonal offerings ensuring a variety during each visit.

Unlike many small-batch breweries that rely on food trucks for customers’ meals, Iron Hill boasts its own restaurant, renowned for its traditional homemade dishes, including steaks, macaroni and cheese, and roast chicken.

The establishment is family-friendly, and considering the quality of its offerings, the prices remain competitive.

14. Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge

In contrast to many other preserves, the Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge is situated in an urban setting, making it an easily accessible option for residents seeking outdoor experiences without extensive travel.

Most of the refuge lies adjacent to Wilmington’s riverfront. The expansive undeveloped areas provide a surprising retreat, making visitors feel as though they are much farther from urban life.

The refuge includes an indoor educational center that is beneficial to visit first, as it provides an overview of the park’s features and activities.

15. DuPont Environmental Education Center

The DuPont Environmental Education Center, situated on Delmarva Lane in Wilmington, is a complimentary attraction open to the public throughout the year.

While many new visitors commonly associate Delaware with its Atlantic coastline, the state also possesses a rich agricultural landscape featuring numerous diverse natural ecosystems.

The center’s grounds are primarily located along the Christina River, boasting a remarkable variety of wildlife, especially in transitional zones where land and water converge, such as marshes and wetlands.

The center’s staff offer regularly scheduled tours and activities throughout the year, accommodating participants of all ages.