If you’re a fan of decorative arts and live in or are visiting the Delaware area, Winterthur is not to be missed. This 175-room mansion was formerly the home of Henry Francis du Pont and has been immaculately decorated with various furniture and furnishings. Today, it functions as a museum open to the public and is also home to one of the country’s most majestic gardens. Winterthur is an educational institution, where graduate students and researchers study American art and culture in their prominent research library. They also hold programs and classes for families and our Delaware adoption agents love taking weekend family trips here for fun educational experiences. Some of the family programs offered here include:
Enchanted Woods
There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy in Winterthur’s 60-acre naturalistic garden. The gardens change over the seasons, so you can return here again and again and always have a new experience.
The Enchanted Woods is a fairy-tale-inspired garden and one of the most popular spots with kids who visit Winterthur. The 3-acre plot of the Winterthur Garden is designed as a magical landscape created by woodland fairies. Notable features of this world include a Tulip Tree House and the Faerie Cottage. Parents can relax and keep an eye on their kids from one of the benches surrounding the area.
Story Time
On the first and third Thursdays of the month from April through October, a story time is hosted at the Enchanted Woods. Kids learn how fun reading can be and gain a new appreciation for nature at the same time.
Enchanted Summer Day
Summer is finally here, and on June 16, 2018, the Enchanted Woods will be hosting a celebration. Kids can dress as elves or fairies and parents can join in the celebration with songs, storytelling, crafts, and other fun activities.
Squeaky Wheels
Parents and toddlers in strollers can take fun guided walking tours through the gardens and galleries at Squeaky Wheels. This is held the first Wednesday of the month from March through October. Learn all about Winterthur’s collection from one of their knowledgeable guides and meet other local families.
WOW! Wee Ones at Winterthur
This series is intended for younger kids, from ages 3-5. Kids learn about various subjects related to the museum and garden through active learning activities like music, dancing, and examining objects. This program is held second and fourth Thursdays from March through November.
Garden Adventures
Kids from 3-6 and their caregivers can explore the Winterthur Garden in all its glory at the Garden Adventures program. While most kids who have visited here are familiar with the Enchanted Gardens, many have not ventured off to explore the rest of Winterthur Garden’s wonders. This program is great for introducing both kids and parents to everything this marvelous garden has to offer.
