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Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library: A Glimpse into American Decorative Arts

Explore American decorative arts, a stunning garden, and a research library at the historic Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in Delaware.

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Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, located in Winterthur, Delaware, is a premier museum showcasing American decorative arts. The former home of Henry Francis du Pont, the estate features a 175-room mansion filled with an extensive collection of antiques, a 60-acre naturalistic garden, and a research library, all set within a 1,000-acre landscape. Visitors can explore American history, art, and horticulture through tours, exhibitions, and programs.

A brief summary to Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the gardens and grounds.
  • Check the Winterthur website for special events, exhibitions, and seasonal programs before your visit.
  • Allow ample time to explore both the house and gardens, as there is much to see and discover.
  • Take advantage of the shuttle and garden tram services to navigate the expansive estate.
  • Visit during the spring or summer to witness the gardens in full bloom.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is located at 5105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735, approximately six miles northwest of Wilmington. From I-95, take exit 7B (Delaware Avenue/Route 52) and follow Route 52 North. The museum will be on your right. There is a visitor parking lot adjacent to the Visitors Center. Parking: Free in the visitor parking lot. Accessible parking spaces are available in the Visitor Lot and on Old Gate House Road near the museum entrance.

  • Public Transport

    The closest major transportation hub is Wilmington, DE. From Wilmington Station (Amtrak/SEPTA), Winterthur is approximately a 20-30 minute drive. Taxi/Ride-Share: A taxi or ride-sharing service from Wilmington Station to Winterthur will cost approximately $30-$45. Note: There is no direct public transportation to Winterthur Museum from Wilmington. Consider ride-sharing or taxi services for the final approach.

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Discover more about Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library

Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library offers a unique and immersive experience into American decorative arts and the legacy of Henry Francis du Pont. The estate, nestled in the Brandywine Valley, was once the home of four generations of the du Pont family. The name 'Winterthur' originates from the Swiss hometown of Jacques Antoine Bidermann, who married into the du Pont family. The centerpiece of Winterthur is the 175-room mansion, showcasing a remarkable collection of over 89,000 American antiques dating back to the colonial period. These include furniture, artwork, and historical artifacts, meticulously arranged to reflect different periods and styles. Guided tours of the house provide insights into the lives of the du Ponts and the evolution of American craftsmanship. Complementing the museum is the renowned 60-acre naturalistic garden, a masterpiece of color and design. Henry Francis du Pont himself designed the garden, which features a succession of vibrant blooms from early spring through the fall. Visitors can explore various garden areas, including the formally landscaped areas near the house and the Wild Garden, inspired by William Robinson's designs. The estate also includes the award-winning children's garden, Enchanted Woods, offering a magical space for kids to play and imagine. Winterthur also houses a research library with over 87,000 rare books and 800,000 manuscripts and images, supporting scholarship in American history, decorative arts, and culture. The library is open to the public by appointment, providing access to a wealth of resources for researchers and enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including house tours, garden walks, exhibitions in the Galleries, and dining in the cafés. Shuttles and garden trams are available for convenient transportation around the estate. Winterthur hosts numerous events and programs throughout the year, including the Artisan Market and Yuletide at Winterthur.

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