Holiday lights & winter outings near Wilmington
The holidays are when the region shows off — light displays, a Santa train, and plenty of warm indoor backups for when the kids hit their cold-weather wall. These are the December-into-winter outings worth planning around Wilmington. Timed tickets sell out, so book the big ones early.
1. Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square
Famous for A Longwood Christmas — the region's big holiday display of lights and the decked-out conservatory. The marquee outing; book timed tickets early.
2. Wilmington & Western Railroad
Wilmington
The Santa Claus Express runs in December — a heritage train ride for the holidays. Tickets go fast.
3. Winterthur Museum & Gardens
Winterthur
The house and gardens stay open into the holidays — a dressier, slightly-older-kid option when you want something calmer.
4. Delaware Children's Museum
Wilmington
The indoor warm-up when it's too cold to be out — toddler-friendly and fully weatherproof.
5. Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
Wilmington
Another indoor option for a raw winter day — dinosaurs and a hands-on Discovery Gallery.
Questions parents ask
Where are the best holiday lights near Wilmington?
A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens is the regional standout — lights across the grounds plus the conservatory. Timed reservations are required — book well ahead.
What's a holiday outing for little kids?
The Wilmington & Western Railroad's Santa Claus Express in December is built for young kids. On a too-cold day, the Children's Museum is the reliable indoor fallback.
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Checked against each place’s current info.
Admission and hours come straight from each place’s guide. Last reviewed July 20, 2026. Confirm anything dated on the source before you go.