Laundry Can Wait: A Family Weekend in Wilmington & Brandywine Valley
- Sarah Jayne
- 11 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Some weekends are for catching up on laundry. And then there are weekends where you decide the laundry can absolutely wait.
Our family weekend in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, Delaware was the kind that filled our days (and our camera roll) in the best possible way. It had just the right mix of good food, curious little explorers, peaceful gardens, interactive museums, and a few sugar-fueled moments that kept everyone smiling.
If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly Delaware getaway, this little corner of the state quietly delivers.
Where We Stayed
We based ourselves at Homewood Suites in Wilmington/Brandywine Valley, and if you’re traveling with kids, apartment-style layouts are such a gift. Having a little extra room to spread out at the end of a full day makes everything feel easier. Especially when everyone needs space after too much excitement (and maybe too much ice cream).
Friday: Riverfront Views & Taco Night
We kicked off the weekend at Taco Grande along the Wilmington Riverfront, and I firmly believe tacos taste better when eaten near water.
The kids were happy. We were relaxed. Nobody was asking for snacks five minutes after sitting down because, well, tacos.
After dinner, we grabbed ice cream and took a slow stroll along the Riverfront Wilmington path. The kids ran ahead like they’d just been released into open territory, and we followed at a much calmer pace. It was simple, easy, and exactly how a family weekend should begin.
Saturday: Cozy Breakfast & Outdoor Exploring
Saturday morning started at Centreville Place, one of those cozy breakfast spots that makes you want to linger. Warm coffee, comforting food, and a pace that felt calm instead of rushed.
If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend checking Visit Wilmington DE ahead of time to see if any local festivals or events are happening. We were lucky enough to catch the Separation Day celebration in Historic New Castle, which added such a fun, unexpected layer to our trip.
Later in the day, we headed to Winterthur Museum and Gardens, and this was easily one of our favorite stops in the Brandywine Valley. The Enchanted Woods are magical in a way that feels playful rather than precious. Kids can explore freely, climb, imagine, and wander, while parents soak in the beauty of the gardens.
It’s that rare combination where everyone feels like they’re getting exactly what they need.
Museums That Keep Everyone Engaged
No family weekend in Wilmington would feel complete without a little hands-on learning.
We spent time at the Delaware Museum of Nature & Science, which was packed with interactive exhibits and displays. Dinosaurs were, unsurprisingly, a major highlight. I don’t think I’ve ever met a child who casually walks past a dinosaur skeleton.
We also visited the Delaware Children’s Museum, which is basically built for curious little minds. Hands-on play stations, creative exhibits, and plenty of “Mom, come see this!” moments made it a win.
If you’re mapping out a family weekend in Wilmington, Delaware, both museums are worth adding to your list.
Sunday: Coffee, Play, and a Slow Goodbye
Sunday was intentionally slower. We grabbed coffee at Brew HaHa! Café (highly recommend for parents who need a moment) and let the kids enjoy outdoor playtime at the Delaware Center for Horticulture. That balance of movement and calm made the day feel grounded rather than rushed.
It was the perfect way to wrap up a weekend that felt full but not overwhelming.
A Smart Tip for Families Visiting Brandywine Valley
If you’re planning a family trip to Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley, look into the Brandywine Treasure Trail Passport for Families.
One passport includes admission for two adults and up to three kids at 12 local attractions, including several stops on our itinerary. It’s a great way to save if you plan on visiting multiple museums or gardens.
And if there’s one thing we appreciate on family trips, it’s stretching the budget just enough to say yes to one more treat.
Why Wilmington & Brandywine Valley Work So Well for Families
What I loved most about our time in Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley was how easy everything felt. The attractions are close together. The pace is manageable. There’s a mix of food, nature, learning, and play without feeling chaotic.
You can follow a loose itinerary like we did, or simply see where the day takes you.
Either way, you’ll head home with happy kids, full bellies, a camera roll you’ll scroll through later, and yes… probably laundry waiting for you.
So tell me, what’s your first stop? Tacos, dinosaurs, or ice cream? ✨
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