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DuPont Nature Center: Gateway to the Delaware Bay

Explore Delaware Bay's wonders at the DuPont Nature Center: Witness shorebird migrations, discover aquatic life, and connect with nature.

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The DuPont Nature Center, located in Milford, Delaware, offers a unique opportunity to explore the Delaware Bay's natural history and ecology. With interactive exhibits, an observation deck, and a live nature-cam, visitors can witness the wonders of the bay, including the spring shorebird migration and horseshoe crab spawning.

A brief summary to DuPont Nature Center

  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring (April-May) to witness the spectacular shorebird migration and horseshoe crab spawning.
  • Check the DNREC website for the center's operating hours, as it is only open from April to September on select days.
  • Bring binoculars for a closer view of the wildlife from the observation deck.
  • Explore the nearby Milford Riverwalk and downtown Milford for a complete day trip.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From DE-1 South, take exit 83 for Milford and merge onto US-113 North. After about 5 miles, take the exit for DE-14 East toward Milford. Continue on DE-14 for about 8 miles, then turn left onto Lighthouse Road. The DuPont Nature Center will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take the DART First State bus service to Milford. From the Milford transit area, a taxi or rideshare service is needed to reach the DuPont Nature Center, as there is no direct public transport. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a taxi or rideshare.

Unlock the Best of DuPont Nature Center

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Discover more about DuPont Nature Center

The DuPont Nature Center, managed by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), sits where the Mispillion River and Cedar Creek meet the Delaware Bay. This location provides a unique vantage point to observe the diverse ecosystem of the Delaware Bay Estuary. The center's exhibits highlight the environmental and historical significance of Mispillion Harbor, offering insights into local aquatic species. Each spring, the center becomes a prime location to witness the migration of thousands of shorebirds that stop to feed on horseshoe crab eggs, fueling their journey to the Arctic. The observation deck provides exceptional views of this natural spectacle, as well as other wildlife throughout the year. Inside, interactive exhibits and live cameras offer a closer look at nesting ospreys and other local wildlife. The center's location is also historically significant, as it stands near the site of the former Mispillion Lighthouse, which served as a beacon for the community for over a century. The surrounding area, part of the Milford Neck Nature Preserve, features a vibrant mix of human activity in Mispillion Harbor and the diverse life of a tidal marsh. Visitors can explore the area's unique blend of natural beauty and historical importance. The DuPont Nature Center offers educational programs and events from April through September, including field excursions, lectures, and hands-on activities. Self-guided programs are also available for families and groups. The center is open specific days, and closed from October through March.

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