Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library - a large building with a lawn in front of it
1 / 10

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

4.7
·685 reviews·, United States

A magnificent estate with 175 period rooms and 1,000 acres of gardens, showcasing American decorative arts and natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Gardens in full bloom, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library - a large building with a lawn in front of it

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Gardens in full bloom, pleasant temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent estate with 175 period rooms and 1,000 acres of gardens, showcasing American decorative arts and natural beauty.

4.7
(685 reviews)

"So beautiful!!! Gorgeous rolling hills, woods, gardens and hidden gems all worthy of a long afternoon stroll."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Essential for garden exploration!

Book house tour tickets early

Self-guided house tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Enchanted Woods

Enchanted Woods

Children's Garden

A whimsical wonderland for kids with hobbit houses and fairy tea parties. Pure magic!

Period Rooms

Period Rooms

Historic House

Step back in time through 175 meticulously preserved rooms showcasing American decorative arts.

Tram Garden Tour

Tram Garden Tour

Estate Grounds

Effortlessly glide past rolling meadows, ancient trees, and seasonal blooms.

Ann Lowe Exhibition

Ann Lowe Exhibition

Museum Galleries

Marvel at gowns by America's first Black couture dress designer, including Jackie Kennedy's.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Estate's Scale

Winterthur is vast, with 175 rooms and 1,000 acres. Prioritize what you want to see—house tours, gardens, or specific exhibits—to make the most of your visit. Consider breaking it into two days if time allows.

Garden Exploration Essentials

Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the 60-acre gardens and wooded areas. While trams help, many hidden gems are best discovered on foot. Check the weather and pack sunscreen for sunny spots.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Gardens in full bloom, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temps, beautiful light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Coolest indoor museum in Switzerland #asmr #museum #viralvideo #winterthur #fyp #switzerland
@its.ammiie
460.4K likes • 38.1M views

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Essential for garden exploration!

Book house tour tickets early

Self-guided house tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

This place was a dream 🧚‍♂️🌿 @🍥rica #winterhur #delaware #fairygarden
@audriiiana
18.3K likes • 220.1K views
✨Kid-Friendly Winterthur ✨ Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library offers the perfect escape for the whole family, especially with kids in tow! Their magical Enchanted Woods is truly a wonderland where little adventurers can let their imaginations run wild. From whimsical tea parties to exploring hobbit houses, the endless possibilities make this a must-visit during your next Greater Wilmington geta...
visitwilmingtonde
73 likes • 2.8K views

Utilize the free tram tour

A great way to get an overview of the estate and access different areas easily. :bus:

Pack a picnic or use the cafe

Enjoy food amidst the beauty. Cafe has great food, even wine! :wine_glass:

Enjoy a magical day in Enchanted Woods at Winterthur Museum and Gardens. Their award winning children’s garden is worth a visit for the whole family. Visit Winterthur.org for more info. Video by @winterthurbloom, @winterthurmuse #WinterthurMuse #Garden #brandywinevalley #GardensOfInstagram #GardensOfInsta #Gardencore #Fairycore #Cottagecore #AmericasGardenCapital #ChildrensGarden #Design #Gar...
brandywinevalley
581 likes • 9.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Essential for garden exploration!

Book house tour tickets early

Self-guided house tours are popular; book ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Utilize the free tram tour

A great way to get an overview of the estate and access different areas easily. :bus:

Pack a picnic or use the cafe

Enjoy food amidst the beauty. Cafe has great food, even wine! :wine_glass:

Consider a two-day visit

So much to see, you might need more than one day to fully explore. :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(685 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Winterthur for its breathtaking gardens, impressive historic house, and the magical Enchanted Woods. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, along with convenient amenities like the tram tour and cafe, enhance the overall experience. While the estate is vast, most find it a delightful place for a leisurely stroll and exploration.

"So beautiful!!! Gorgeous rolling hills, woods, gardens and hidden gems all worthy of a long afternoon stroll. We did the self-guided house tour (170 rooms - not all open to the public but a large part of them are) very beautiful and interesting and the guides were very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful) and wandered the wooded hills and paths. (There are trams and buses throughout the day to transport people around the gardens and to the house and museum from the visitor center.) The museum is wonderful and impressive. Ours was a premier client company event and we all enjoyed a delicious - and let me tell you, it was delicious! - buffet of chicken tarragon, braised short ribs with mashed potatoes and gravy, a wonderful salad, and their famous (and rightly so) mushroom soup! It was a delightful day and I highly recommend a nice leisurely visit!"

Sharon McNeill

"My family had so much fun at Winterthur Museum and Gardens today. The admission was reasonable and the facilities are really nice. Beautiful buildings, exhibits and gardens. The free guided tram ride really give you a great way to get to know what you’d like to spend your time doing while you’re there. The cafe has great food, too or bring your own."

Tom Aquilone

"Beautiful gardens and mansion with quite a variety to see. The docents in the home are knowledgeable and friendly. The Enchanted Garden is a nice spot for kids and the guided tram tour that runs hourly (30 min long appx) allows those with mobility issues a chance to see much of the estate easily."

Benjamin Goodrich

What People Like

Stunning gardens and grounds
Beautifully preserved period rooms
Magical Enchanted Woods

What People Dislike

Can be crowded during peak times
Some areas uphill and unshaded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Winterthur is located outside Wilmington, Delaware. Driving is the most common way, with ample parking available. Public transport options are limited, but some bus routes may serve the area. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Many visitors arrive from nearby cities like Philadelphia, which is about an hour's drive away. InstagramReddit

Yes, Winterthur offers ample parking for visitors. The visitor center is the main entry point, and parking is conveniently located nearby. Follow the signs upon arrival. Reddit

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop off and pick up visitors at Winterthur. It's a good option if you're not driving yourself. Reddit

The estate is vast! You can walk, use the free guided tram tour that runs hourly, or take the bus service. The tram is excellent for getting an overview and reaching key areas. InstagramReddit

Yes, Winterthur strives to be accessible. The guided tram tour is a great option for those with mobility challenges, and many garden paths are paved or well-maintained. Accessible parking is also available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices vary depending on the season and any special exhibits. It's recommended to check the official Winterthur website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular house tours. Reddit

While walk-in tickets may be available, booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for the self-guided house tours, which can sell out. This ensures you get your preferred time slot. Reddit

General admission typically includes access to the gardens, the museum galleries, and the Enchanted Woods. Access to the historic house tours often requires a separate ticket or a premium admission package. Reddit

Check the Winterthur website for potential discounts, such as for seniors, students, or AAA members. Membership also offers free admission and other benefits. Reddit

Opening hours can vary by season and day of the week. It's best to consult the official Winterthur website for the most accurate and up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the stunning period rooms in the house, the magical Enchanted Woods for kids, and a leisurely stroll through the 60 acres of diverse gardens. The tram tour is also a great way to see the estate. InstagramReddit+1

To truly experience the house, gardens, and exhibits, plan for at least a half-day. Many visitors find a full day or even two days ideal to explore everything at a relaxed pace. Reddit

Yes, Winterthur offers guided tours, including the popular self-guided house tour with knowledgeable docents, and the estate tram tour. Check the schedule upon arrival for tour times. Reddit

The Enchanted Woods is a magical children's garden designed for imaginative play, featuring hobbit houses, fairy tea parties, and whimsical elements that kids adore. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in the gardens and public areas for personal use. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain indoor exhibits or the house. Always check signage. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Winterthur has a cafe that offers a good selection of food, including salads, sandwiches, and hot dishes. They even serve wine! You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy on the grounds. Reddit

Reviews suggest the cafe offers delicious food, with specific mentions of their famous mushroom soup and satisfying buffet options like chicken tarragon and braised short ribs. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is a great option. There are beautiful spots throughout the gardens where you can relax and enjoy your own meal. Reddit

While specific menus can change, the cafe typically offers a variety of options. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire with staff upon arrival for vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

Winterthur is a popular venue for events, including weddings. They offer various spaces for private functions. Inquire with their events department for details. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The gardens offer endless photographic opportunities with seasonal blooms, ancient trees, and scenic vistas. The koi pond is noted as a particularly beautiful and private spot. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Winterthur is a stunning backdrop for engagement and wedding photos. Many photographers capture beautiful moments here, especially in the gardens. Instagram

While personal photography is generally permitted, flash photography and tripods might be restricted in certain indoor areas or exhibits to protect the artifacts. Always check for posted signs. Instagram

Visitors often capture landscape shots of the gardens, architectural details of the estate, and intimate moments in the Enchanted Woods. The period rooms also offer unique photographic subjects. Instagram

Drone usage is typically prohibited at Winterthur to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and to protect the estate and its collections. Always verify current regulations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Winterthur is a fantastic destination for families! The Enchanted Woods is a must-visit, offering a magical play space with hobbit houses and imaginative activities that kids absolutely love. Instagram+1 The free tram tour is also a hit with children, providing an easy and engaging way to see the vast estate without tiring little legs. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful gardens, or utilize the family-friendly cafe. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and designed to engage younger visitors, making it a memorable outing for the whole family. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Garden Enthusiasts

For those passionate about horticulture, Winterthur's 60-acre gardens are a dream come true. Explore diverse landscapes, from formal displays to naturalistic woodlands, each offering unique seasonal beauty. The estate's ancient trees and carefully cultivated plantings are a testament to the founder's passion. InstagramReddit

Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the various garden 'rooms' and discover hidden paths. The Tram Garden Tour offers a great overview, but dedicated time for walking allows for a deeper appreciation of the horticultural artistry. InstagramReddit+1

🏛️ History & Art Buffs

Winterthur's historic house is a premier destination, boasting an unparalleled collection of American decorative arts across its 175 period rooms. Each room is a meticulously curated snapshot of American history and design. Reddit The docents add immense value with their knowledgeable insights, bringing the past to life. Reddit

Beyond the permanent collection, keep an eye out for special exhibitions, such as the acclaimed Ann Lowe gown display, which highlight significant figures and movements in American art and fashion. Instagram The museum galleries offer further depth into the decorative arts, making it a rich experience for anyone interested in American heritage.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Enchanted Woods

The Enchanted Woods at Winterthur is a highlight for families and anyone who loves a touch of whimsy. Described as a 'fairytale garden',Instagram it's designed to spark imagination in children. Visitors can expect to find charming elements like hobbit houses and areas perfect for pretend tea parties.Instagram+1 It's a place where little adventurers can truly let their imaginations run wild, making it a memorable part of any visit.

This award-winning children's garden is more than just a play area; it's an immersive experience. The creators have thoughtfully designed it to be engaging and magical, offering endless possibilities for exploration. It’s a testament to Winterthur’s commitment to providing diverse experiences for all ages, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have a fantastical time. Instagram+1

The Historic House and Period Rooms

Winterthur's historic house is a treasure trove of American decorative arts, featuring 175 rooms, many of which are open to the public. These period rooms are meticulously preserved, offering a vivid glimpse into the lives and tastes of past generations. Visitors can wander through these beautifully appointed spaces, admiring the exquisite furniture, art, and objects that tell stories of American history and design. Reddit

The self-guided house tour is a popular activity, with knowledgeable docents available to answer questions and provide insights. The guides are often praised for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the educational and engaging nature of the tour. Reddit The sheer scale of the house, once the home of Henry Francis du Pont, is impressive, showcasing his passion as an antiques collector and horticulturist. Instagram

Beyond the main house, Winterthur also hosts rotating exhibitions. A notable recent exhibit featured gowns by Ann Lowe, America's first Black couture dress designer, including a piece worn by Jackie Kennedy. Instagram These exhibits add another layer of cultural and historical depth to the visitor experience, making each visit potentially unique.

Gardens and Estate Exploration

The 60-acre botanical gardens at Winterthur are a major draw, offering a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and meticulously curated plantings. Visitors can explore diverse areas, from formal gardens to naturalistic settings, with seasonal blooms providing year-round beauty. The estate itself spans nearly 1,000 acres, providing ample space for leisurely walks and discovery. InstagramReddit

To help visitors navigate this expansive estate, Winterthur offers a free guided tram tour. This is highly recommended, especially for those with mobility concerns or who want a comprehensive overview of the grounds. The tram glides past iconic old-growth trees, some hundreds of years old, and offers stunning vistas. InstagramReddit+1 For those who prefer to explore on foot, comfortable shoes are essential, as some areas involve uphill climbs and unshaded paths. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the beauty and tranquility of the gardens, describing them as 'gorgeous' and 'well-maintained.' Reddit It's a place where one can easily spend an afternoon strolling, enjoying the natural beauty, and discovering hidden gems like the koi pond, which is noted as a particularly picturesque and private spot. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2