New Castle County Map
Introduction
New Castle County, located in the northernmost part of Delaware, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, there is something for everyone in this county. This comprehensive travel guide will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, vibrant nightlife, and much more.
Top Attractions
1. Hagley Museum and Library
The Hagley Museum and Library is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. This museum showcases the history of the DuPont family and their influence on American industry. Visitors can tour the family’s 1802 home, see the first du Pont powder mills, and explore the library’s extensive collection of research materials.
2. Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is one of the most beautiful and expansive gardens in the country. Visitors can explore over 1,000 acres of gardens, meadows, and woodlands, and see exotic plants from around the world. You can also attend concerts, classes, and workshops, or enjoy a meal at one of the on-site restaurants.
3. Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library
The Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is another must-visit attraction for history and art lovers. The museum showcases American decorative arts from the 1600s to the present day, and the gardens are among the most beautiful in the country. Visitors can also explore the library’s extensive collection of research materials.
Hidden Gems
1. Fort Delaware
Fort Delaware is a hidden gem for history and nature enthusiasts. This fort played a significant role in the Civil War, and visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history. You can also take a ferry to the fort and see the wildlife and natural scenery along the way.
2. Brandywine Creek State Park
Brandywine Creek State Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the park’s many trails, or enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s scenic areas. You can also fish or canoe in the Brandywine Creek.
3. Newark Natural Foods Co-op
The Newark Natural Foods Co-op is a hidden gem for foodies. This co-op offers a wide selection of organic and locally-sourced foods, as well as classes and workshops on cooking and nutrition.
Food Scene
New Castle County has a thriving food scene, with everything from fine dining to casual eats. Some of the top restaurants in the area include The Green Room, La Fia, and The House of William and Merry. For a more casual meal, try Two Stones Pub or Brew HaHa!.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of things to do in New Castle County. Many of the area’s top attractions, such as the Hagley Museum and Library and the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library, offer free admission on select days. You can also explore the county’s many parks and nature trails for free.
Outdoor Adventures
New Castle County is home to many beautiful parks and nature trails, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top parks in the area include White Clay Creek State Park, Brandywine Creek State Park, and Bellevue State Park. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the many trails, or enjoy a picnic in one of the scenic areas.
Family-Friendly Activities
New Castle County has plenty of activities for families with children. Some of the top family-friendly attractions in the area include the Delaware Children’s Museum, the Wilmington and Western Railroad, and the Delaware Museum of Natural History. You can also explore the many parks and nature trails in the area.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in New Castle County. Some unique attractions in the area include the Marshall Steam Museum, the Iron Hill Museum, and the Delaware Art Museum. You can also explore the county’s many historic districts and architecture.
Natural Wonders
New Castle County is home to many beautiful natural wonders, including the Brandywine Valley, the White Clay Creek Preserve, and the Delaware Bay. You can explore these natural wonders on foot, by bike, or by boat.
Vibrant Nightlife
New Castle County has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and music venues. Some of the top places to go for nightlife in the area include the Queen Wilmington, the Gypsy Saloon, and Kelly’s Logan House.
Local Markets
New Castle County is home to many local markets, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and more. Some of the top markets in the area include the Newark Co-op Farmers Market, the New Castle Farmers Market, and the Wilmington Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
New Castle County is located near both the beaches of the Delaware coast and the mountains of Pennsylvania. You can take a day trip to the beach or the mountains and enjoy all that these areas have to offer.
Cultural Immersion
New Castle County has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Native American, African American, and European cultures. You can learn about this heritage at the many museums and historic sites in the area, or by attending cultural events and festivals.
Art and Music Scene
New Castle County has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues. Some of the top places to go for art and music in the area include the Delaware Art Museum, the Grand Opera House, and the Delaware Contemporary.
Walking Tours
New Castle County has many historic districts and architecture, making it a great destination for walking tours. You can explore the city on foot and learn about its history and architecture.
Historical Sites
New Castle County has a rich history, with many historic sites to explore. Some of the top historical sites in the area include the Old New Castle Courthouse, the Fort Christina National Historic Landmark, and the New Castle Historic District.
Biking Routes
New Castle County has many beautiful biking routes, including the James F. Hall Trail, the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, and the Pomeroy Trail. You can explore the county on two wheels and enjoy the scenery.
Wellness Retreats
New Castle County has many wellness retreats, where you can relax and rejuvenate. Some of the top wellness retreats in the area include the Inn at Montchanin Village, the Spa at Montchanin Village, and the Well Spa at Hotel du Pont.
Adventure Sports
New Castle County has many opportunities for adventure sports, including kayaking, rock climbing, and zip-lining. You can explore the county’s natural beauty while getting your adrenaline pumping.