Looking for the best things to do with toddlers in Wilmington DE? These attractions are sure to keep your little one entertained and it doesn’t hurt that the rest of your family will enjoy them too!
Wait, There Are Things To Do In Delaware?
The first time someone mentioned visiting Delaware to us, we were a little skeptical. Our first thought was Delaware’s size. Delaware is the second smallest state in the U.S. So how much can there be to do?
Delaware has a lot to offer for its size. And we aren’t just talking about the tax-free shopping and beaches. Although who doesn’t love not paying taxes and going to the beach?
Most importantly, Delaware has toddler-friendly attractions and some of the best can be found in Wilmington, which is Delaware’s largest city.
Visiting Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington is easy to get to by car since I-95 runs right through the city. It is about a 30-minute drive from Philadelphia and 90 minutes by car from Baltimore. Amtrak also has a station in Wilmington if you are traveling by train.
Since Wilmington experiences all four seasons, the best time to visit depends on what you plan to do. Summers are warm, humid, and the busiest time to visit. Spring and fall are great times to explore the city if you want to avoid crowds. But of course, there are a lot of seasonal attractions that can make winter a magical time to visit, even if it’s cold and snowy!
Best Things To Do With Toddlers In Wilmington DE
We have visited some of these attractions multiple times with our toddler, especially #1 on the list. Whether you live close enough to take a day trip or are just traveling in the area, you will want to check out these fun things to do with toddlers in Wilmington DE.
1. Delaware Children’s Museum
Delaware Children’s Museum Sneak Peek
- Free parking close by
- Stroller-friendly although you probably won’t need a stroller for your toddler
- Prepare to spend 60 – 90 minutes at the museum
- Coats racks are available to hang your outerwear at no cost
- Bring a change of clothes for your little one
The Delaware Children’s Museum is located on Wilmington’s Riverfront. The museum has its own free parking lot on Beech Street and the lot is big so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a spot.
The parking lot is only a short walk from the museum and your toddler should be able to make the walk. Or worst case, you can carry your little one to avoid taking a stroller. While the museum is stroller-friendly, you probably won’t want to be burdened with a stroller while at the museum since your toddler will be running all over!
The museum has a ton of exhibits your toddler will love exploring so you should plan to spend about 60 – 90 minutes at the museum. There is something for everyone from pretend play in the auto body shop to shooting hoops on the toddler-sized basketball court.
There is a water play exhibit and smocks are provided. But as always, we suggest bringing a change of clothes in case your little one gets wet splashing around.
There are coat racks near the museum entrance so you can hang up your outerwear. This is so convenient and allows you to engage with your toddler instead of carrying coats!
The museum is completely indoors so it is a great year-round activity. There is annual maintenance in September so the museum does close for a month, in case you plan to visit around that time.
2. Riverfront Wilmington
Riverfront Wilmington Sneak Peek
- Wide, paved pathway next to the Christina River
- Lots of places to dine and stay as well as things to do close by
- Great photo opportunities
- Perfect place to let your toddler move or relax, whatever is needed most
- Free parking nearby
You will find a lot of attractions, places to eat, and places to stay along Riverfront Wilmington. So basically it’s the place to see and be seen!
You can use the riverwalk along the Christina River to let your toddler walk and burn some energy. It’s also perfect for pushing them in the stroller and giving them a chance to rest after other busy activities.
There is a lot to capture your little one’s attention along Riverfront Wilmington. From boats on the river to live music at some of the restaurants, there is a lot to see and do.
You will also find beautiful views of the river and downtown so it’s a great place to take some pictures. Riverfront Wilmington is a great backdrop for a family photo, which we know is pretty impossible with a toddler, but you can try.
You can find free parking in the Riverfront’s Commuter Lot on Beech Street. Also, some of the attractions along Riverfront Wilmington have free parking.
3. Brandywine Zoo
Brandywine Zoo Sneak Peek
- Free parking across the street
- Small zoo so prepare for a 45-minute visit
- Stroller-friendly, but you will need to bring your own
The Brandywine Zoo is a small zoo, but definitely worth a visit with your toddler. You should plan to spend about 45 minutes at the zoo.
If your little one likes to get up close to animals, then you are in luck! The zoo has domestic goats your toddler can pet! And you can too because who doesn’t love to pet goats?
The zoo is stroller-friendly and an easy walk. However, they do not provide strollers so you will want to bring your own.
We love when you don’t have to pay for parking and the Brandywine Zoo doesn’t disappoint! There is a big parking lot across from the zoo at Brandywine Park. And parking is free!
Be sure to check the zoo’s calendar of events. They offer special events throughout the year as well as daily events like animal feedings and animal shows.
4. Brandywine Park
Brandywine Park Sneak Peek
- Paved path for a one-hour walk
- Free parking
- Enjoy local wildlife, Jasper Crane Rose Garden, Josephine Fountain, and fitness equipment
- Your toddler can rest in the stroller or walk around and burn some energy
Brandywine Park is along the Brandywine River in Wilmington. It is home to the Brandywine Zoo, but there is so much more to explore in the park.
Parking is free and we would recommend parking in the lot across from the Brandywine Zoo.
From there, you can walk down the path along North Park Drive to North Market Street, where you can cross over the Brandywine River. Then you can take the walkway along South Park Drive up to the Swinging Footbridge. Once you cross the bridge, the path will take you back to the parking lot.
This route will take about one hour to walk and it is totally worth it. The path is paved and stroller-friendly. There is only one place with some stairs that you will have to carry your stroller down, but it is manageable.
It is a great walk to do with your toddler because they can either rest in the stroller or enjoy the local wildlife. You can usually spot birds, ducks, and turtles hanging out near the path or in the river.
The loop will also take you past the Jasper Crane Rose Garden and Josephine Fountain, which are great photo opportunities. Additionally, you will find stations with fitness equipment along the path for you and your little one to use.
5. Constitution Yards
Constitution Yards Sneak Peek
- Convenient place to get something to eat and drink while your little one plays
- Located along Riverfront Wilmington
- Beautiful views of the Christina River
Constitution Yards is a beer garden located on Wilmington’s Riverfront with awesome views of the Christina River.
With a toddler, it’s challenging to go to a restaurant and have a meal. Trying to keep your little one in their seat and entertained at a restaurant is exhausting and unenjoyable at times.
Constitution Yards is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat and an adult beverage, without anyone giving you dirty looks because your toddler is running around.
There is green space and a sand area where your little one can play. They also have games like cornhole and connect four that your toddler will enjoy.
We would recommend stopping by during the day with your toddler. It can get crowded at night, especially when there is live music or an event.
One Day In Wilmington DE: Day Trip Itinerary
If you are in the city for the day, this is the perfect itinerary so you can visit all of the best things to do with toddlers in Wilmington DE!
Morning
- Start your morning with a peaceful walk at Brandywine Park. Look for local wildlife, watch the Brandywine River, explore the Jasper Crane Rose Garden, and take some pictures at the Josephine Fountain.
- The next stop (without having to move the car) is the Brandywine Zoo. Watch your toddler get excited by the animals and make sure to pet the goats! Catch an animal feeding or show if you can.
- If you are looking for something else to do before leaving the park, check out the Kids Playground at Brandywine Park. Your little one can use their boundless energy to run around and climb on the play equipment.
Afternoon
- Head over to Riverfront Wilmington and grab something to eat and drink at Constitution Yards if they are open. Otherwise, you can either dine in or get takeout from a restaurant along the Riverfront. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Big Fish Grill, and Taco Grande offer takeout so you can get your food and eat on a bench along with Riverfront while your toddler runs around.
- Once your belly is full, enjoy a walk along Riverfront Wilmington. People watch, look for boats on the Christina River, and hopefully your toddler will doze off in the stroller for a little quiet time.
- Visit the Delaware Children’s Museum to learn and play! Build with blocks, pretend to cook a meal in the kitchen, throw a baseball, and so much more!
You can definitely extend your stay in Wilmington DE, but if you only have one day, you can still see and do a lot in the city.
This post was all about the best things to do with toddlers in Wilmington DE.
Other Posts You May Like
- If you are looking for other toddler-friendly places to visit on the East Coast, you may like the Ultimate Day Trip to Providence RI with Toddlers and 7 Epic Things To Do In New Hope PA With Toddlers.
- Before taking any toddler trip, you will want to read How to Travel with a Toddler | 9 Essential Tips so you have the best trip ever!
