Worth the drive from Wilmington
Some places are worth leaving the county for. These are the day trips within about 45 minutes of Wilmington that reliably earn the drive — pack snacks, plan the nap around the car, and make a day of it. Each links to its full place guide.
1. Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square
World-class gardens, fountains, and a giant indoor conservatory about 35 minutes up Route 1 — a half-day that works rain or shine.
2. Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia
Philadelphia's flagship children's museum — a full, hands-on day for the under-8s, about 40 minutes up I-95.
3. Linvilla Orchards
Media
Hayrides, pick-your-own, and animals on a big farm in Media, PA — the classic day trip, busiest in fall.
4. Milburn Orchards
Elkton
A polished pick-your-own farm just over the Maryland line — a short drive for a long farm season.
Questions parents ask
What's the best rainy-day day trip from Wilmington?
Longwood Gardens — its large indoor conservatory makes it a strong half-day even when the weather turns. Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is fully indoor too.
How far are these from Wilmington?
All are roughly 30–45 minutes — Longwood up Route 1, Please Touch up I-95 into Philadelphia, and the farms just over the PA and MD lines. Confirm hours on each place's page before you set out.
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More guides
Checked against each place’s current info.
Admission and hours come straight from each place’s guide. Last reviewed June 14, 2026. Confirm anything dated on the source before you go.