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Winterthur Enchanted Woods: A Whimsical Fairy-Tale Garden

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

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The Enchanted Woods at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library in Wilmington, Delaware, is a magical three-acre children's garden designed to spark imagination and creativity. Featuring fairy-tale structures like a Faerie Cottage, a Bird's Nest, and the Acorn Tearoom, it's a place where kids and families can connect with nature and enjoy imaginative play.

A brief summary to Winterthur Enchanted Woods

  • 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

  • Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the enchanting scenery and playful moments.
  • Check the Winterthur website for special events and seasonal activities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and require some walking.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Winterthur Visitor Center, follow the signs towards the museum and gardens. The Enchanted Woods is located a short walk from the Visitor Center, approximately 10-15 minutes uphill. Shuttles are available from the Visitor Center to the Enchanted Woods. Check the garden map for accessible routes.

  • Public Transport

    From Wilmington, take DART First State bus route 4 or 33 towards the Delaware Art Museum. Transfer to bus route 40 towards Winterthur Museum. Get off at the Winterthur Museum stop, and follow the signs to the Enchanted Woods entrance. A single bus fare is $2.

  • Driving

    Winterthur is located on Route 52 (Kennett Pike), six miles north of Wilmington, DE. Use the address 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807 for GPS navigation. Free parking is available in the Visitor Parking Lot. From the parking lot, follow the signs to the Visitor Center and then to the Enchanted Woods.

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Discover more about Winterthur Enchanted Woods

Step into a world of enchantment at Winterthur's Enchanted Woods, a whimsical three-acre garden designed to ignite the imaginations of children and families. This unique space, part of the renowned Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, offers a playful retreat filled with winding pathways, interactive play areas, and captivating natural landscapes. Conceived in the late 1990s, the Enchanted Woods distinguishes itself from typical playgrounds by embracing the beauty of nature and the wonder of fairy tales. The garden is designed with features that children love, such as high spaces offering unique views, cozy nooks for hiding, and water elements for added fun. The lore behind the woods suggests that fairies used materials from around the estate to create this special play place for children. Explore the various attractions within the Enchanted Woods, including the Faerie Cottage with its charming thatched roof, the giant Bird's Nest offering elevated views, and the Acorn Tearoom perfect for make-believe tea parties. Discover the Stone Garden, bedecked with marble accents and stone artifacts, or venture to the Upside-Down Tree, crafted from the remains of a fallen oak. The Gathering Green features a maypole with colorful streamers, while the Forbidden Fairy Ring surprises visitors with a cooling mist during the summer months. The Enchanted Woods is more than just a garden; it's a living storybook where every corner reveals a new adventure. It's a place where children can climb, explore, and interact with nature, fostering an appreciation for horticulture and environmental stewardship. Whether you're wandering through the picturesque trails or enjoying a picnic amidst the beauty of the gardens, the Enchanted Woods promises a memorable escape for all ages.

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