Winterthur Museum & Gardens

About

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library sits on a breathtaking 1,000-acre estate in Delaware's Brandywine Valley, originally the home of Henry Francis du Pont. Today it's one of America's premier collections of decorative arts, with nearly 90,000 objects made or used in America between 1640 and 1860. The 175-room house alone is worth the trip, filled with period rooms that bring centuries of American craftsmanship to life.

But Winterthur isn't just an indoor experience. Sixty acres of naturalistic gardens surround the estate, designed by du Pont himself as a series of intimate garden "rooms" that bloom in succession throughout the seasons. Spring brings sweeping displays of azaleas, dogwoods, and wildflowers. The Enchanted Woods, a three-acre fairy-tale garden, is a favorite with families and kids of all ages.

Visitors can explore the gardens by tram, on foot, or a combination of both. Guided house tours offer different themes and depths, from introductory overviews to focused explorations of specific collections. The estate also houses a world-renowned research library specializing in American art, culture, and history.

Practical details: Winterthur is located about six miles northwest of Wilmington, off Route 52. Plan for at least half a day to see the highlights, though you could easily spend a full day here. A cafe on-site serves lunch and snacks. The museum shop is excellent for unique gifts. Seasonal events include the annual Yuletide tour, a point-to-point steeplechase in May, and outdoor concerts in summer.

Whether you're drawn to fine art, garden design, American history, or simply a peaceful day on beautiful grounds, Winterthur delivers a rich and memorable visit.

Accessibility

Winterthur offers several accessibility features for visitors with mobility needs. Vehicles with official disability permits may park in designated spaces next to the Visitor Center and near the Galleries Reception Area, minimizing the distance to entry points.

Complimentary companion-guided wheelchairs and strollers are available at no cost at both the Visitor Center (where tickets are picked up) and the Galleries Reception Atrium. Garden shuttles, trams, and most walking paths are wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it possible to experience the 60-acre garden without extensive walking. The tram system is particularly helpful for covering the estate's large grounds.

Visitors using their own wheelchairs, powered mobility devices, or strollers should be aware that some garden paths may have natural surfaces and varying grades. All-terrain tires or adaptive/motorized equipment may be needed in certain areas.

For sensory accommodations, restroom accessibility, service animal policies, or details about specific house tour routes, contact Winterthur directly at (800) 448-3883 or visit their website. Accessibility features and tour options may vary by season, so it's worth confirming current details when planning your visit.

More accessible places in Delaware

• Delaware Art Museum (Wilmington)
• Delaware Museum of Nature and Science (Wilmington)
• Longwood Gardens (across PA but major draw) (Wilmington)
• Nemours Estate (Wilmington)
• Brandywine Creek State Park & Russell W. Peterson Refuge (Wilmington)
• Brandywine Zoo (Wilmington)