Top 15 Attractions and Activities in North Star, Delaware

With a population of nearly 8,000 residents and a total area of less than seven square miles, the town of North Star in New Castle County, Delaware, showcases a blend of suburban and rural lifestyle. Located about an hour away from Philadelphia, it offers a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

North Star’s position along the Delaware River, coupled with convenient access to hiking trails and natural reserves, creates a distinctly rural ambiance. However, the numerous restaurants, cafes, and vibrant nightlife options, particularly in the downtown district, lend an urban flavor to the community. Additionally, shopping enthusiasts can explore popular destinations like the Dover Delaware Shopping Mall and Pine Creek Shopping Mall.

Below are 15 notable activities to consider when visiting North Star, Delaware.

1. Grab a Bite to Eat at The Crownery Chinese Restaurant

After a lengthy journey, your first inclination may be to enjoy a meal. The Crownery Chinese Restaurant, located in nearby Hockessin, provides an excellent opportunity to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine within a warm and inviting ambiance.

The menu boasts an array of classic and contemporary dishes, including the much-admired Dim Sum.

2. Mount Cuba Astronomical Observatory

On select evenings throughout the week, Mount Cuba Astronomical Observatory in Greenville welcomes the public. Guests can utilize a 0.6-meter telescope for an opportunity to observe the moon and planets up close.

During your visit, you can attend informative talks on astronomy, and explore the Sunquest sundial and souvenir shop available on-site.

3. White Clay Creek State Park

Enthusiasts of outdoor activities can dedicate an entire day to fishing, hiking, and biking within White Clay State Park. Millstone Pond and Cattail Pond offer freshwater fishing, where anglers may catch diverse species such as bluegill, crappie, and trout.

Hiking and biking are encouraged on 37 miles of trails that vary in difficulty, allowing you to traverse historical sites and admire picturesque views of valleys and unique rock formations.

4. Delaware Museum of Natural History

For an engaging day filled with interactive educational experiences, the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Wilmington offers visitors of all ages the chance to explore myriad aspects of the natural world.

This museum is the sole establishment of its kind in the state, featuring numerous permanent exhibits focused on dinosaurs, mammals, and the work of Charles Darwin. A variety of temporary exhibitions are also showcased throughout the year.

5. Delaware Art Museum

If you have an appreciation for art, you will be captivated by the over 12,000 artworks exhibited at the Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington. This museum houses one of the largest collections of American art, spanning from the 19th century to contemporary works.

An outdoor sculpture park extends across 10 acres, and throughout the year, the museum features numerous special exhibitions.

6. Take a Scenic Train Ride with the Wilmington & Western Railroad

While a picturesque drive is a popular way to appreciate the region’s landscapes, taking a scenic train ride allows you to soak in the beautiful surroundings without the concern of navigating the roadway.

The routes of the Wilmington & Western Railroad guide visitors through some of the area’s most scenic locales within the Red Clay Valley, encompassing Greenbank, Faulkland, Wooddale, Ashland, Yorklyn, and Hockessin.

7. Try Your Luck at the Casino Delaware Park

Visitors seeking entertainment and the chance to win are welcomed by a diverse array of gaming options at Casino Delaware Park in Wilmington. The establishment features over 2,300 slot machines arranged over two levels, alongside table games, a spacious poker room, and opportunities for sports betting.

A variety of dining options and an 18-hole public golf course are also available on-site.

8. Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge

Although it may appear incongruous, the downtown area of Wilmington is home to a wildlife refuge situated along the riverfront, one of the few urban wildlife refuges in the United States.

The Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge focuses on preserving a sensitive wetland marsh habitat and the numerous species inhabiting it. Raised walkways, pathways, and observation platforms allow visitors to safely view the beautiful landscape and its wildlife.

9. The Philadelphia Museum of Art

Given that the vibrant city of Philadelphia is merely an hour away from North Star, you may find yourself discovering its remarkable urban attractions. Among the must-visit sites is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, distinguished for its vast size, allowing visitors to experience two consecutive days of admission.

Inside the museum, guests may explore independently or partake in guided tours. This world-class cultural institution features a diverse collection of American, European, and Asian art across more than 200 galleries.

The museum showcases notable exhibits, including a collection of works by French Impressionists, art representing Philadelphia’s rich history, the largest collection of works by Marcel Duchamp globally, and a selection dedicated to Rodin.

A variety of family-friendly programs are available, alongside several dining options, including Stir.

10. Rockwood Museum and Park

Originally a distinguished country estate established in the 1850s, Rockwood Museum and Park in Wilmington has a rich history of being passed down through generations before being restored and made accessible to the public by a non-profit organization.

Visitors can explore the residence’s intricate interiors and accompanying gardens, which are open for exploration. Throughout the year, various events, including ghost tours and craft markets, are organized at this site.

11. Ashland Nature Center

Guests at Ashland Nature Center are invited to spend a day immersed in nature, surrounded by 130 acres of woodland, meadows, and marshlands. The site offers breathtaking views along Red Clay Creek and access to four miles of nature trails.

Along the trails, visitors may encounter the Red Clay Valley Important Bird Area, a Hawk Watch, a Bird Blind, a Butterfly House, and a Hummingbird Haven. The park remains open throughout the year and provides amenities such as restrooms, a visitor center, picnic areas, and an overnight lodge.

12. Enjoy a Seafood Meal at Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront

There is no superior way to savor a hearty meal of fresh, local seafood than with stunning river views in a relaxed ambiance enhanced by nautical-themed decor.

The Big Fish on the Riverfront Restaurant in Wilmington is renowned for serving generous portions, ensuring a fulfilling dining experience.

While seafood is their signature offering, a diverse menu is available, allowing you to enjoy your meal indoors or on a spacious covered patio during pleasant weather.

13. Delaware Children’s Museum

The Delaware Children’s Museum warmly welcomes youngsters of all ages to explore, learn, and discover new insights in a playful environment. This museum is dedicated to igniting a passion for learning through a variety of interactive exhibits.

Engaging experiences include permanent installations focused on mathematics, science, technology, and the arts.

14. Mt. Cuba Center Botanical Garden

At the Mt. Cuba Center in Hockessin, visitors can explore a unique botanical garden that features a variety of plants native to the Eastern Temperate Forests and the Appalachian Piedmont, alongside a considerable collection of historically significant plants.

As you admire the exquisite gardens, take the opportunity to learn more about the research involved in their development and the ongoing conservation efforts. Guided tours are available for interested guests.

15. The Hagley Museum and Library

Covering 225 acres, The Hagley Museum and Library is part of the larger estate once owned by the DuPont family. The grounds feature several historical structures, including a 19th-century machine shop, alongside a plethora of displayed artifacts.

Guests can also appreciate the revitalized Renaissance garden and gain insights into the history of the buildings and artifacts while exploring the museum.