Background

The Delaware Contemporary: Wilmington's Hub for Contemporary Art

Explore contemporary art at Delaware's only non-collecting museum, featuring diverse exhibitions, artist studios, and community programs on the Wilmington Riverfront.

★★★★★4.6 (328)

The Delaware Contemporary is a non-collecting art museum in Wilmington, Delaware, dedicated to showcasing contemporary art by local, regional, and international artists. With seven galleries, 26 artist studios, and various community programs, it's a vibrant space for artistic exploration and engagement.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to The Delaware Contemporary

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
200 S Madison St, Wilmington, Riverfront, Delaware, 19801, US
Thursday
12 pm-5 pm
Friday
12 pm-5 pm
Saturday
12 pm-5 pm
Sunday
12 pm-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Delaware Contemporary.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
Take advantage of the free admission to explore the galleries and discover new artists.
Visit during the Art Loop on the first Friday of each month for a vibrant art experience.
Explore the Riverfront area, with its many restaurants and attractions, before or after your museum visit.

Discover more about The Delaware Contemporary

Located on Wilmington's Riverfront, The Delaware Contemporary is the state's only contemporary art museum. Founded in 1979 as the Delaware Center for Contemporary Arts, it rebranded in 2015. The museum's focus is on promoting the understanding and growth of contemporary arts in Delaware. The museum features over 24 exhibitions annually, showcasing a diverse range of media and exploring topical issues in contemporary art and society. In addition to its exhibitions, The Delaware Contemporary is committed to educational and community outreach through various programs. These include artist residencies with underserved community groups and Contemporary Connections, a program that integrates art with school curriculums. The 33,000-square-foot building houses seven galleries, 26 artist studios, an auditorium, classrooms, and a museum shop. This allows the museum to host a wide range of events, including open figure drawing classes and art and wellness programs. The Delaware Contemporary also plays a vital role in supporting local artists through artist residencies and exhibition opportunities. Admission is free, making it accessible for families and art enthusiasts. The museum is a hub of creativity and community, offering a dynamic space for experiencing contemporary art and engaging with the artistic process.

Explore places near The Delaware Contemporary

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of The Delaware Contemporary

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Walking

    From the Wilmington Amtrak/SEPTA station, walk south on Market Street, then turn left onto West Street. Continue onto Justison Street, and The Delaware Contemporary will be on your right. The walk is approximately 4 blocks and takes about 10-15 minutes.

    Public Transport

    The Delaware Contemporary is accessible via DART Route 32, the Wilmington Trolley. Check the DART website for schedules and fare information. A single ride fare is $2.00.

    Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 6 and follow the signs for the Riverfront. Turn onto Justison Street, and the museum will be on your right, after you drive under the train tracks. Free parking is available in the Delaware Contemporary parking lot. Additional parking is available at the Willing Street Parking Lot, a few blocks away.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Visitor Center Area and South Side Trails - Mammoth Cave National Park  (U.S. National Park Service)

    More about Lums Pond State Park

    Discover the natural beauty and diverse activities at Lums Pond State Park, Delaware's largest freshwater pond oasis, perfect for family outings and adventurous escapes.

    Tell me more about Lums Pond State Park

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.