Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Brookside, Delaware

Brookside is a community of approximately 16,000 residents situated in New Castle County, Northwest Delaware.

Conveniently located just off Interstate 95, it serves as a practical stop for travelers journeying between Philadelphia and Baltimore. The area attracts numerous shoppers from the region, capitalizing on the absence of sales tax applicable to a wide range of goods, including apparel, electronics, vehicles, and groceries.

The vicinity offers a plethora of state parks and nature preserves, alongside various urban attractions such as collegiate sports events, a casino, and an array of historical sites.

Below are 15 attractions to discover in and around Brookside, Delaware.

1. Rittenhouse Park

Rittenhouse Park spans nearly 50 acres and is situated on West Chestnut Hill Road, conveniently located off Route 896.

Despite its close proximity to the city center, the park maintains a natural and undeveloped environment, making it especially favored for its nearly two-mile hiking trail.

During summer months, Rittenhouse Park hosts several camps and annual events. Available amenities comprise a playground, picnic tables, and easy access to Christiana Creek, ideal for children to cool off and explore on warm days.

The park is free to access, offers ample parking, and is situated near additional local attractions.

2. Tony’s Bistro

Although many of Brookside’s main attractions are technically located in Newark, several are only a short distance from downtown.

Tony’s Bistro, positioned in Chestnut Hill Plaza, specializes in pizzas and authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta, chicken parmesan, and Caesar salads.

Their pizzas are available in multiple sizes, featuring crusts that vary from thin and crispy to thick and doughy, with non-traditional toppings such as Buffalo chicken, ranch dressing, and bacon.

Patrons often describe Tony’s as cozy and welcoming, with pricing suitable for budget-conscious travelers.

3. Vince’s Sports Center

For those with an inclination toward sports and recreational activities, Vince’s Sports Center offers a unique variety of options within a single location.

This family-owned and operated establishment has been serving the community for nearly 40 years.

It features multiple mini-golf courses, an executive-style 9-hole course, batting cages, playgrounds, and one of the region’s largest video arcades.

Vince’s also provides a range of culinary options, including pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and funnel cakes.

Most visitors find themselves staying longer than anticipated, so it’s advisable to allocate more time than initially planned.

4. Middle Run Valley Natural Area

While Delaware is one of the smallest states in the United States, it features a surprising number of state parks, many of which are a short drive from Brookside.

Middle Run Valley Natural Area, located in New Castle County just east of Newark, is an accessible destination for those seeking to embrace the outdoors within a limited timeframe.

This natural area comprises nearly 900 acres reserved for preservation, showcasing a diverse range of habitats teeming with wildlife, often observable from its trails.

5. People’s Plaza

Established over four decades ago, People’s Plaza has expanded significantly and has evolved into one of the area’s most distinctive attractions.

The plaza now features a remarkable collection of businesses, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues such as movie theaters, all located on Wrangle Hill Road in nearby Bear.

During the weekends, particularly in the afternoons, People’s Plaza tends to attract large crowds, both during inclement weather and when the summer temperature becomes excessively warm.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, visiting in the morning may provide an opportunity to enjoy the surroundings without the throngs.

6. Cooch’s Bridge

Delaware is known for its wealth of historic sites, and Cooch’s Bridge is a notable but often overlooked destination.

This bridge was originally destroyed during a Revolutionary War battle in 1777; it has since been reconstructed and is now included in the National Register of Historic Places.

The site features monuments honoring fallen soldiers, along with informative plaques detailing the battle’s background and its unfolding.

Visitors can explore Cooch’s Bridge free of charge, typically spending about thirty minutes before proceeding to other destinations.

7. Newark Reservoir

Newark Reservoir serves as the principal freshwater source for the northern cities and towns of Delaware, capable of holding hundreds of millions of gallons at full capacity. Its primary water source is White Clay Creek.

The reservoir is situated adjacent to other local parks that are favored by urban outdoor enthusiasts.

The area surrounding the reservoir offers picturesque views and abundant wildlife, along with numerous trails that meander along its banks and through adjacent forests.

Although the park is especially popular during summer, it exhibits stunning beauty during the fall as the leaves showcase their vibrant autumn hues.

8. Iron Hill Science Center

For families traveling with young, curious minds, the Iron Hill Science Center, situated on Robert L. Melson Lane in Newark, is a premier destination in Delaware.

The center’s exhibits cover a myriad of compelling subjects, including zoology, space exploration, technology, and the natural world.

While designed primarily for younger visitors, parents and older children also find the experience enjoyable and enlightening.

The staff organizes a range of regular activities that engage participants in hands-on experiences. Although it may not be the most inexpensive attraction in the area, many find it offers good value.

9. Resident Ensemble Players

The University of Delaware is a vital resource for the community, bustling with a variety of sporting events and other engaging activities. For those willing to invest some time in research, numerous free events can be found.

The Resident Ensemble Players, the university’s theater group, provides year-round productions for students, staff, and local community members.

The group presents a diverse selection of plays, ranging from classic pieces to contemporary works, with a particular reputation for the former.

Located in the Roselle Center for the Arts in Newark, tickets are available for purchase online, making it advisable to secure them early to avoid sold-out performances.

10. Fred Rust Ice Arena

Ice skating is an enjoyable and refreshing activity suitable for individuals of various ages and fitness levels.

The Fred Rust Ice Arena, located on South College Avenue at the University of Delaware campus in Newark, features multiple rinks.

Although primarily designated for organized hockey leagues and figure skating competitions, these rinks are opened to the public at designated times.

Should you not have your own skates, equipment, including helmets, can be rented on-site.

It is prudent to check their schedule prior to planning a visit.

11. Delaware Art Museum

Situated on Kentmere Parkway in Wilmington, the Delaware Art Museum houses one of the state’s most extensive collections of contemporary art.

The collection predominantly spans works from the 19th to 21st centuries and encompasses numerous pieces of traditional American art, along with folk and historically significant art that reflects the region’s heritage.

The museum features expansive outdoor grounds showcasing various sculptures across more than ten acres. The staff offers a diverse selection of workshops and special events year-round, particularly during the summer and holiday seasons.

12. Christiana Mall

Delaware attracts budget-conscious shoppers from across the mid-Atlantic due to its lack of retail sales tax.

This results in substantial savings, making Christiana Mall in Newark a favored shopping destination.

While it’s not the newest mall, it has undergone recent renovations and is home to hundreds of stores, prominently featuring various well-known brands such as Barnes & Noble, Macy’s, and Nordstrom.

The mall also offers a multi-screen cinema and a wide array of dining options, ranging from food court options to more upscale choices like The Cheesecake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen.

13. Delaware Park

Delaware Park attracts crowds who revel in both horse racing and various gaming activities reminiscent of Las Vegas, including poker, keno, and slot machines. However, it caters to a broader range of visitors through diverse amenities.

As one of the state’s largest live entertainment venues, it boasts a championship-caliber 18-hole golf course regarded as a standout option.

Delaware Park offers accommodations across a wide budget spectrum and several dining establishments, alongside many family-friendly activities.

For those wishing to avoid larger crowds, a weekday visit is recommended, as the majority are typically at work during that time.

14. Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge

The Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge is located within a more urban environment compared to Delaware’s other state parks and wildlife areas.

This setting offers convenience for individuals wishing to minimize travel time while still enjoying nature. Many visitors appreciate the expansive grounds, which create an illusion of seclusion from urban life.

The refuge features an indoor visitor center with engaging and informative exhibits, making it a common starting point for visitors due to the availability of maps and lists of attractions to explore on-site.

15. Wilmington & Western Railroad

Established in the years preceding the Civil War, the Wilmington & Western Railroad served as a primary means of freight and passenger transportation in the area for most of its history.

After nearly a century of operation, it transitioned into a tourist attraction, offering those interested a unique perspective of The First State.

During the journey, guests will uncover insights into the region’s historical and economic context, making it particularly appealing to families.

While ticket prices are reasonable, the train operates seasonally, so it’s advisable to verify their timetable before planning a visit.