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If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience in Delaware, you won’t want to miss out on the many interesting museums scattered throughout the state. From museums dedicated to the state’s history to those focused on science and technology, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the most interesting and intriguing must-visit museums in Delaware is the Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, located in Wilmington. This museum boasts an extensive collection of American decorative arts, with over 90,000 objects on display. In addition to the impressive collection, visitors can explore the 60-acre garden and enjoy various exhibitions and programs throughout the year.
Another one of the most fascinating and interesting museums in Delaware is the Johnson Victrola Museum, located in Dover. This museum highlights the history of sound recording, with a focus on the Victor Talking Machine Company and its founder, Eldridge Reeves Johnson.
Visitors can view a variety of early recording devices, including phonographs and gramophones, and learn about the impact of sound recording on popular culture.
Delaware Art Museum
2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE
If you are an art lover, the Delaware Art Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum boasts an impressive collection of American art, including works by famous artists such as Howard Pyle, Andrew Wyeth, and Edward Hopper.
The museum’s permanent collection includes over 12,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts and works on paper. The collection is particularly strong in American art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a focus on the Brandywine School of Illustration.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Delaware Art Museum also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions feature works by both established and emerging artists and cover a wide range of styles and mediums.
One of the highlights of the museum is its outdoor sculpture garden, which features works by contemporary artists set amidst beautiful gardens and wooded areas. The garden is open year-round and is free to the public.
Admission to the Delaware Art Museum is $14 for adults, $7 for students with a valid ID, and $6 for youth ages 7-18. Children 6 and under are free. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, and on Thursday evenings until 8 pm from April to December.
Air Mobility Command Museum
1301 Heritage Rd, Dover AFB, DE
If you’re interested in aviation history, the Air Mobility Command Museum in Dover, Delaware is a must-visit destination. This military aviation museum is the only one dedicated to airlift and air refueling history. You can explore its exhibits and learn about the history of air transport, military airlift, and air mobility command.
The museum’s collection features a fascinating array of vintage aircraft, ranging from World War II propeller planes to current four-engine jet transports. You can climb aboard many of these planes, including the C-47 Skytrain, the C-141 Starlifter, and the C-5 Galaxy. The museum also has two distinct sections, an interior hangar, and an outside ramp.
The Air Mobility Command Museum is open to the public and offers free admission. It’s a great place to visit for families, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone interested in military history. The museum also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, so be sure to check their calendar for upcoming events.
The Air Mobility Command Museum is a fascinating destination that offers a unique glimpse into the history of military aviation. If you’re in the Dover area, don’t miss the chance to visit this one-of-a-kind museum.
Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village
866 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE
If you’re interested in Delaware’s agricultural history and rural heritage, the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village is a must-visit. Located in Dover, this museum is dedicated to preserving the agricultural heritage of Delaware and the Delmarva Peninsula.
The museum features a main exhibit hall where visitors can marvel at the many inventions and monuments to engineering that played a key role in the growth and expansion of agriculture in the First State. You’ll find a variety of exhibits that showcase Delaware’s farming history, including displays of antique farm equipment, tractors, and wagons.
One of the highlights of the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village is its authentic 1890s Village, Loockerman Landing. This fully restored village illustrates life in a rural Delaware village in the late 19th century. You can explore a variety of historic buildings, including a general store, a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and a church.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. You can attend workshops, classes, and demonstrations on a variety of topics related to agriculture and farming. The museum also hosts a variety of special events, including festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations.
If you’re planning a visit to the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village, be sure to check the museum’s website for information on days and hours of operation, admission fees, and guided tours.
Delaware Museum of Natural History
4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE
If you’re interested in learning about the natural history of Delaware and beyond, the Delaware Museum of Natural History (DMNH) is a must-visit. Located in Wilmington, the museum has been a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts since it opened its doors in 1972.
Exhibits
The DMNH has a diverse collection of exhibits that showcase the natural world in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular and interesting museums exhibits.
- Delaware Wilderness: This exhibit highlights the diverse ecosystems found in Delaware, from the coastal marshes to the Piedmont forests. Visitors can see live animals like turtles, snakes, and fish, as well as interactive displays that teach about the state’s flora and fauna.
- Prehistoric Delaware: This exhibit takes visitors back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the area that is now Delaware. Fossils and interactive displays help visitors learn about the geologic history of the state and the creatures that lived here millions of years ago.
- Africa: This exhibit showcases the wildlife and cultures of Africa, including a life-sized elephant and displays of traditional African clothing and artifacts.
Programs and Events
In addition to its exhibits, the DMNH offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most popular exhibits.
- Nature Navigators: This program is designed for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Participants explore the museum’s exhibits and participate in hands-on activities that teach about the natural world.
- Science Saturdays: On select Saturdays throughout the year, the DMNH offers special science-themed activities and demonstrations. Past topics have included geology, astronomy, and marine biology.
- Summer Camps: The DMNH offers week-long summer camps for children in grades K-8. Each camp has a different theme, such as “Dino Days” or “Animal Adventures,” and includes hands-on activities, games, and outdoor exploration.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, the Delaware Museum of Natural History is worth a visit.
Zwaanendael Museum
102 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE
If you are interested in Delaware’s history, you should visit the Zwaanendael Museum. This museum is located in Lewes, Delaware, and it was built to commemorate the Delaware’s first European colony by the Dutch. The Zwaanendael Museum’s exhibits provide a showcase for Lewes-area maritime, military, and social history.
The museum duplicates the architecture of a medieval Dutch town. This traditional Dutch-style building houses a not-so-traditional inhabitant: A Fiji merman. The merman is a taxidermy hoax that was popular in the 19th century. It is a monkey’s head and torso sewn onto the tail of a fish. The Zwaanendael Museum also has a collection of artifacts from the DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the coast of Delaware in 1798.
The Zwaanendael Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm and on Sunday from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and on major holidays. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
If you plan to visit the Zwaanendael Museum, keep in mind that face coverings are required at this location. The museum has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and books related to Delaware’s history. If you want to experience nearby attractions, we recommend taking a Wetlands Safari Cruise (Birding By Boat).
Johnson Victrola Museum
375 S New St, Dover, DE
If you’re interested in the history of sound recording and the music industry, the Johnson Victrola Museum in Dover, Delaware is a must-visit attraction. The museum is dedicated to Eldridge Reeves Johnson, a Delaware native who founded the Victor Talking Machine Company in 1901.
The museum provides a fascinating context to musical history in the United States. Though the Victrola may seem far removed from our present day streaming services, you can see the connection from gramophone to Spotify. The museum documents Johnson’s achievements as a recording industry pioneer, inventor, and successful businessman during the first quarter of the 20th century.
The Johnson Victrola Museum is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. The museum is located at 375 S. New St. Dover, DE 19904.
If you’re a music lover or a history buff, you won’t want to miss the Johnson Victrola Museum. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the early days of recorded music and the man who helped shape the industry.
Nanticoke Indian Museum
26673 John J Williams Hwy, Millsboro, DE
If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Native Americans in Delaware, the Nanticoke Indian Museum is a must-visit. This museum is the only Native American museum in the state and is located in Millsboro, Delaware.
The Nanticoke Indian Museum is run by the Nanticoke Indian Tribe and has been listed as a National Historic Landmark by the Federal Government. The museum’s collection includes handmade jewelry, pottery, spears, arrow points, and other artifacts that interpret and honor the culture of the Native Americans who have long called Delaware home.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum to learn about the history of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe and their contributions to Delaware. The museum also hosts educational programs, events, and workshops throughout the year.
The museum is open from April through December, Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday from noon to 4 PM. From January through March, the museum is open Thursday to Saturday from 10 AM to 3 PM and Sunday from noon to 3 PM.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Nanticoke Indians, you can also visit the Nanticoke Indian Center, which is located nearby. The center offers tours and educational programs for groups and individuals.
Iron Hill Museum
1115 Robert L. Melson Lane, Newark, DE
If you’re interested in history and science, the Iron Hill Museum in Newark, Delaware is a must-visit. Formerly known as the Iron Hill Science Center, this museum is dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural history of the region.
The museum was originally located in a former African-American school building in Newark, but in 2016 it moved to a new building. The Iron Hill Museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region, including displays of local wildlife, geology, and Native American artifacts.
One of the most interesting of the museum’s exhibits at the Iron Hill Museum is the “Delaware Dinosaurs” exhibit, which features fossils and other artifacts from the region’s prehistoric past. Visitors can see a replica of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull and learn about the different types of dinosaurs that once roamed the area.
In addition to its exhibits, the Iron Hill Museum also hosts a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. From summer camps for kids to lectures and workshops for adults, there’s always something interesting happening at this museum.
If you’re planning a trip to Delaware and you’re looking for an interesting and educational museum to visit, be sure to check out the Iron Hill Museum. With its fascinating exhibits and engaging programs, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Delaware Children’s Museum
550 Justison St, Wilmington, DE
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your children, the Delaware Children’s Museum is a great place to visit. Located in Wilmington, the museum is Delaware’s first and only kid-centric museum, teaching math, science, and technology through hands-on exhibits.
Exhibits
The museum features 37,000 square feet of interactive fun, with age-appropriate experiences for tots to tweens. There are seven hands-on, interactive exhibits to explore, each designed to encourage children to learn through play.
- Bank on It: This exhibit teaches children about money, banking, and finance in a fun and interactive way. Kids can play banker, teller, or customer and learn how to save and spend money wisely.
- Eco-Explorers: This exhibit is all about the environment and how we can protect it. Children can learn about renewable energy, recycling, and conservation through interactive games and activities.
- Power of Me: This exhibit encourages children to explore their bodies and learn about health and wellness. Kids can learn about nutrition, exercise, and the importance of getting enough sleep.
Educational Programs
In addition to the exhibits, the Delaware Children’s Museum also offers a variety of educational programs for children of all ages. These programs are designed to supplement what children learn in school and provide hands-on, interactive learning experiences.
- STEM Workshops: These workshops focus on science, technology, engineering, and math and are designed to inspire children to pursue careers in these fields.
- Art Classes: The museum offers a variety of art classes for children of all ages, from painting and drawing to sculpture and mixed media.
- Summer Camps: The museum offers week-long summer camps for children ages 4-12. Each camp has a different theme and includes hands-on activities, games, and experiments.
The Delaware Children’s Museum is a great place to take your children for a fun and educational experience. With its interactive exhibits and educational programs, your children are sure to have a great time while learning something new.
Hagley Museum and Library
200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington, DE
If you’re interested in the history of Delaware, the Hagley Museum and Library is a must-visit. This museum is located in Wilmington, Delaware, and is the former industrial site of the original black powder works of the DuPont Company. The museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of American enterprise.
Exhibits
The Hagley Museum and Library has a variety of exhibits that cover different aspects of American history. One of the most popular exhibits is the “Nation of Inventors” exhibit, which celebrates diverse stories of American innovation. Another popular exhibit is the “DuPont Company Heritage” exhibit, which explores the history of the DuPont Company and its impact on American industry.
In addition to these exhibits, the museum also has a variety of other exhibits that cover topics such as transportation, communication, and agriculture. There’s something for everyone at the Hagley Museum and Library.
Events
The Hagley Museum and Library also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the “Hagley Car Show,” which features vintage and antique cars from all over the country. Another popular event is the “Hagley Craft Fair,” which showcases the work of local artisans.
In addition to these events, the museum also hosts lectures, workshops, and other educational programs throughout the year. These programs are designed to educate visitors about different aspects of American history and culture.
The Hagley Museum and Library is a fascinating place for anyone interested in American history. With its wide variety of exhibits and events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library
5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE
Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is one of the most interesting museums in Delaware. It is an American estate located in Winterthur, Delaware, which houses one of the richest collections of Americana in the United States. Here are the sub-sections to help you understand the museum better.
Galleries
The galleries at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library showcase the most significant collection of American decorative arts in the world. The collection features over 90,000 objects, including furniture, ceramics, glass, textiles, paintings, prints, and drawings.
The galleries are organized chronologically and thematically, allowing visitors to explore the evolution of American decorative arts from the 17th century to the early 20th century. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes or artists.
Gardens
Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is home to a world-class naturalistic garden set within 1,000 acres of rolling hills, streams, meadows, and forests. The garden features a wide variety of plants, including rare and exotic species, and is designed to be in bloom all year round.
Visitors can explore the garden on foot or by tram, taking in the beauty of the landscape and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The garden also hosts a range of events and programs throughout the year, including garden tours, workshops, and lectures.
Library
The library at Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is a research institution dedicated to the study of American decorative arts and material culture. The library’s collection includes over 300,000 volumes, including books, manuscripts, and archival materials, as well as a vast collection of photographs, prints, and drawings.
The library also has a conservation lab, where staff members work to preserve and restore the museum’s collection of books and other materials.
This is an excellent destination for anyone interested in American decorative arts, naturalistic gardens, or material culture. The museum’s galleries, gardens, and library offer a wealth of opportunities for learning, exploration, and enjoyment.
Delaware Contemporary
200 S Madison St, Wilmington, DE
The Delaware Contemporary is a popular museum that houses seven galleries, 26 artist studios, a gallery shop, an auditorium, and a classroom. Located on the Riverfront Wilmington, the museum is surrounded by restaurants and attractions for all ages.
The museum presents over 24 exhibitions annually of regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized artists. The exhibitions cover a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation. You can check the museum’s website to see what exhibitions are currently on display.
The Delaware Contemporary’s industrial chic lobby and contemporary art galleries provide an ambiance sure to impress for any event. With easy access to I-95 and Amtrak, the museum’s location is perfect for out-of-town guests.
If you’re interested in art, the Delaware Contemporary is one of the most interesting, must-visit museums in Delaware.
Biggs Museum of American Art
406 Federal St, Dover, DE
If you’re a lover of fine art and history, then the Biggs Museum of American Art should be on your list of places to visit in Delaware. Located in Dover’s Legislative Mall, this museum houses an impressive collection of American fine and decorative arts that spans several centuries.
The museum is named after Sewell C. Biggs, a local art collector who donated his extensive collection to the state of Delaware. The collection includes works from some of the most well-known American artists, including John Singer Sargent, Gilbert Stuart, and Childe Hassam. In addition to paintings, the museum also features decorative arts such as furniture, silver, and ceramics.
One of the unique aspects of the Biggs Museum of American Art is its focus on local artists from the Colonial and Federal periods. Visitors can see works by artists such as Joshua Johnson, who was one of the first African American portrait painters, and John Hesselius, who was known for his portraits of prominent Maryland and Virginia families.
The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing different aspects of American art and culture. In addition, the museum offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and art classes.
If you’re planning a visit to the Biggs Museum of American Art, be sure to check their website for hours of operation and admission prices. Don’t forget to take some time to explore the historic downtown area of Dover, where you can find plenty of other cultural and educational experiences to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Interesting Museums in Delaware
What are some interesting museums to visit in Dover, Delaware?
Dover, Delaware is home to several interesting museums. One of the must-see museums in Dover is the Biggs Museum of American Art. This museum features a collection of American fine and decorative arts from the 1700s to the present.
Another of the most interesting museums to visit in Dover is the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village. This museum showcases the agricultural heritage of Delaware and includes exhibits on farm machinery, crops, and livestock.
Are there any DuPont-related museums in Delaware?
Yes, there are several DuPont-related museums in Delaware. One of the most popular is the Hagley Museum and Library, which is located on the site of the original DuPont powder mills. The museum features exhibits on the history of the DuPont company and its impact on American industry.
Another DuPont-related museum in Delaware is the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, which was founded by Henry Francis du Pont and features a collection of American decorative arts from the 1600s to the 1800s.
What are the top museums to visit in Delaware?
Delaware has many interesting museums to visit, but some of the top museums include the Delaware Art Museum, which features a collection of American art from the 1800s to the present, and the Delaware Museum of Natural History, which has exhibits on dinosaurs, birds, and other animals.
The Hagley Museum and Library and the Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library are also popular and interesting museums to visit in Delaware.
What are some reviews of the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science?
The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science has received positive reviews from visitors. Many visitors have praised the museum’s interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to learn about science and nature in a fun and engaging way. Others have commented on the museum’s knowledgeable staff, who are always willing to answer questions and provide additional information.
What can visitors expect to see at the Delaware History Museum?
The Delaware History Museum features exhibits on Delaware’s history from the early Native American tribes to the present day. Visitors can see artifacts from Delaware’s colonial period, as well as exhibits on the Civil War, World War II, and other important events in Delaware’s history. The museum also has a research library and archives for those interested in learning more about Delaware’s past.
What are some must-see exhibits at the Hagley Museum and Library?
The Hagley Museum and Library has many must-see exhibits, including the Powder Yard exhibit, which showcases the original DuPont powder mills and the process of making gunpowder. Visitors can also see exhibits on the history of the DuPont company and its impact on American industry.
Another popular exhibit is the DuPont family’s ancestral home, Eleutherian Mills, which has been restored to its 19th-century appearance.
