Winterthur Enchanted Woods: A Fairy-Tale Garden

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Discover a whimsical world of imagination and outdoor fun at Winterthur's Enchanted Woods, a magical garden for children and families.

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Winterthur Enchanted Woods

The Enchanted Woods at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is a magical three-acre children's garden designed to spark imagination and creativity. With features like a Faerie Cottage, a giant Bird's Nest, and the Acorn Tearoom, it's a whimsical space for families to explore and play.

A brief summary to Winterthur Enchanted Woods

Wilmington, Delaware, 19807, US
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Monday 11 am-3 pm
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
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Check the Winterthur website for upcoming events like Terrific Tuesdays or the annual Enchanted Summer Day for enhanced family-friendly activities.
Pick up a garden map at the Visitor Center to identify accessible routes and stroller-friendly paths within the Enchanted Woods and surrounding gardens.
Take advantage of the free shuttle service from the Visitor Center to the Enchanted Woods, especially if you have limited mobility or are visiting with young children.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic areas near the Enchanted Woods, or visit one of the cafes at the Visitor Center or Museum.
Purchase tickets online in advance or at the Visitor Center; tickets are honored for two consecutive days, allowing ample time to explore Winterthur's vast grounds.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Winterthur Visitor Center, follow the marked paths through the gardens towards the museum building. The Enchanted Woods is located on a hilltop east of the mansion, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Garden maps are available at the Visitor Center to guide you. Note that the path is uphill and can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Shuttles are available for those who prefer not to walk.
Public Transport

From Wilmington, Delaware, take the Route 52 bus towards Winterthur Museum. The bus stops near the entrance. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the Visitor Center and then proceed to the Enchanted Woods via walking or shuttle. A single bus fare is approximately $2 - $4.
Driving

From the intersection of DE-141 and DE-52, head north on DE-52 (Kennett Pike) for about 2.4 miles. Turn right at the traffic light onto Old Kennett Road, entering the main gate of Winterthur. Follow the signs to the visitor parking lot. Parking is free. From the parking lot, walk to the Visitor Center and then either walk or take the shuttle to the Enchanted Woods.

Discover more about Winterthur Enchanted Woods

Step into a world of wonder at Winterthur's Enchanted Woods, a captivating three-acre garden designed to ignite the imaginations of children and families. This fairy-tale landscape, nestled within the larger Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, feels as though it was crafted by woodland fairies themselves. Enchanted Woods offers a variety of play areas, inviting children to climb, explore, and engage in imaginative play. Discover the charming Faerie Cottage with its thatched roof, perfect for pretending and storytelling. Venture into the giant Bird's Nest, offering a unique perspective from above, or host a make-believe tea party at the Acorn Tearoom. The garden's design incorporates natural elements and repurposed materials, adding to its enchanting atmosphere. Stone artifacts collected by Henry Francis du Pont, the estate's owner, find new life as climbing structures and architectural relics. An upturned tree stump becomes a whimsical sculpture, while a hollow tulip-poplar trunk transforms into a hidden playhouse. Beyond the play structures, Enchanted Woods encourages a connection with nature. Wander along winding footpaths, discover hidden spaces, and observe the thriving understory of mature oak trees. The garden's thoughtful design sparks curiosity and invites children to create their own adventures in this magical setting. Whether you're attending the annual Enchanted Summer Day with special activities or simply exploring the garden on a regular visit, the Enchanted Woods promises a memorable experience for all ages.