Whether the kids are going back to college or you’re just looking for fresh ideas to spice up your empty nester lifestyle, there’s no better time than the fall to get out and about and enjoy the cooler weather, vibrant foliage, delicious seasonal flavors, and variety of activities. Read our list of ideas to experience the best of festivals, fitness, foliage, and fun this fall in and around Wilmington!
Wilmington offers a variety of ways to enjoy the fall season for locals and visitors alike. Here are just a few ideas to make the most of it, with a focus on festivals, fitness, foliage, food and fun.
Festivals: Embrace the Harvest Festivities
It’s not fall without the Brandywine Festival of the Arts! This Delaware tradition, running from 10am-6pm on Saturday, September 7th and 10am-4pm on Sunday, September 8th, features hundreds of juried artists exhibiting one-of-a-kind art. It’s a not-to-be-missed event. This year, you’ll see our It’s Time Wilmington team there handing out free swag; make sure you stop by to say hello! For a festive food and drink experience, book your tickets now for the Delaware Beer Fest on Saturday, October 5th at the iconic Frawley stadium. This annual event will feature over 100+ breweries, wineries, and spirits, with something for everyone, including live music, food trucks, mobile restaurants, and a great vibe. The Hagley Craft Fair is another popular event that brings both artisans and visitors from around the Mid-Atlantic region together, sharing in the love of fine arts, crafts and gourmet items. Join in the 46th year of this fair on Saturday, October 19th from 10am-5pm and Sunday, October 20th from 10am-4pm. The Wilmington Festival of Trees is held from November 15th to 17th at Brantwyn Estate. This beautiful display of decorated trees and wreaths is sponsored and decorated by local businesses and individuals to raise money for Delaware Hospice. Enjoy the decorations as well as musical entertainment, a Marketplace, a Bake Shop, and more!
Fitness: Stay Active Amidst Nature
Hiking and Walking Trails Wilmington’s parks offer the perfect setting for a refreshing walk or hike during the fall. Brandywine Creek State Park is ideal for a gentle stroll among the autumn leaves, with trails that are easy to navigate and offer stunning views. For those seeking to increase their heart rate a bit more, the trails at White Clay Creek State Park provide a more challenging hike with rewarding vistas of the vibrant fall foliage.
Yoga in the Park For a more serene fitness experience, consider joining an outdoor yoga session. Rockwood Park hosts a Yoga Flow class on Tuesday, September 17th that will allow you to stretch and unwind while surrounded by the natural beauty of the season. It’s a wonderful way to combine fitness with relaxation, all while breathing in the crisp fall air. Click here to book a space in this class, or check out the full schedule of yoga classes at Rockwood Park.
Foliage: Explore Wilmington’s Scenic Beauty
Scenic Drives One of the best ways to enjoy Wilmington’s fall colors is by taking a scenic drive through the Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway. This route offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, historic landmarks, and the vibrant hues of the season. It’s a perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights.
Garden Tours Autumn is a magical time to visit Wilmington’s renowned gardens. If you haven’t been lately, this fall is a great time to revisit Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library for a guided tour through its expansive estate, where the fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop. Just a short drive away, Longwood Gardens always presents a seasonal display that is nothing short of spectacular, with meticulously designed gardens that highlight the beauty of fall.
Food: Taste the Fall Flavors
If we’re talking about festivals, fitness, foliage, and fun, there is one more ‘F-word’ that Wilmington is known for…Food! Wilmington’s wide range of dining options offers all of the interesting flavors of fall, sometimes we just need to be reminded to go out and take advantage of them!
Why not try the Chef’s Table at the Park Cafe, an unforgettable 3-hour intimate dining experience where guests indulge in a five-course custom menu, inspired by the season and tailored to their preferences? Chef, Michael Barbas, sources only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers to create a culinary masterpiece, complemented with hand-selected wines.
Prefer an impromptu meal? Head to the Riverfront where there are dining options for whatever your mood is.
From enjoying the fall festivals to staying active in the great outdoors to savoring seasonal dishes, there’s something for everyone in Wilmington. Take the time this fall to explore the rich offerings of our charming city, and create lasting memories surrounded by the splendor of the season. Happy autumn!
