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Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library: A Treasure of American Decorative Arts

Discover American decorative arts, stunning gardens, and rich history at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library in the Brandywine Valley.

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Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, located in Winterthur, Delaware, is a premier museum showcasing American decorative arts within the elegant former home of Henry Francis du Pont. Explore a vast collection of antiques, stroll through stunning gardens, and delve into American history and culture.

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, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Check the Winterthur website for special events and exhibitions before your visit.
  • Allow ample time to explore both the house and gardens; consider a full day to fully appreciate the estate.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle service that runs between the Visitor Center and the museum building.
  • If visiting with children, don't miss the Enchanted Woods, a magical children's garden.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is located on Route 52, six miles northwest of Wilmington, Delaware. From I-95, take Exit 7 (Delaware Avenue/Route 52) and follow signs for Route 52 North. Continue for six miles; Winterthur will be on your left. Use the address 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807 for GPS navigation. There is ample on-site parking adjacent to the Visitors Center. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The closest train station to Winterthur is Wilmington Station, served by Amtrak and SEPTA. From the station, the best option is to take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Winterthur, which is approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Taxi/ride-share cost will be approximately $25 - $40.

  • On-site Shuttle

    Once on the Winterthur grounds, a free shuttle service is available during regular public hours. The shuttle stops at the Visitor Center, Winterthur Museum Store, and the museum entrance, providing convenient access to the main attractions.

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Discover more about Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library

Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, nestled in the scenic Brandywine Valley of Delaware, offers a captivating journey through American decorative arts and the legacy of the du Pont family. Founded by Henry Francis du Pont, Winterthur (pronounced "winter-tour") is more than just a museum; it's a celebration of American craftsmanship, horticulture, and history. The heart of Winterthur is the stunning 175-room mansion, once home to H.F. du Pont, showcasing an unparalleled collection of American antiques and decorative arts. Each room is meticulously designed, reflecting different periods and styles, offering a glimpse into how Americans lived from the colonial era through the early 20th century. The museum's galleries feature rotating exhibitions, displaying selections from a collection of nearly 90,000 objects, including furniture, ceramics, glass, textiles, and paintings. Beyond the mansion, Winterthur's 60-acre naturalistic garden is a horticultural masterpiece. Designed by du Pont himself, the gardens blend seamlessly with the surrounding 1,000-acre estate, featuring rolling hills, streams, meadows, and woodlands. Visitors can explore themed gardens, such as the Azalea Woods, Magnolia Bend, and the whimsical Enchanted Woods, a children's garden. A garden tram tour provides an overview of the garden's highlights and history. Winterthur also houses a research library, established in 1952, that is dedicated to the study of American artistic, cultural, social, and intellectual history from colonial times into the twentieth century. The library's collections include rare books, manuscripts, and images, supporting scholars and researchers from around the world. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a garden lover, or a history buff, Winterthur offers a rich and immersive experience. With its magnificent collections, breathtaking gardens, and engaging programs, Winterthur invites visitors to explore and discover the beauty and heritage of American culture.

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