The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, located on Kennett Pike (Route 52) in Wilmington adjacent to the Winterthur Estate, is the largest natural history museum in Delaware and a regional destination for natural science education in the mid-Atlantic. Opened in 1972, the museum's permanent galleries cover a broad range of natural history subjects through hands-on exhibits, diorama environments, large specimen displays, and interactive elements oriented toward family and school audiences.
The Hall of the Living Ocean presents the biodiversity of marine ecosystems from the Delaware coastline to the deep sea, anchored by a full-size model blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling. A full-size African elephant specimen commands the main entry atrium and is one of the most visually striking objects in the building. The Delaware Wetlands exhibit interprets the ecology of the state's coastal and freshwater wetland systems with live animal displays including native reptiles, amphibians, and fish. A fossil gallery presents dinosaur specimens and local prehistoric finds, and a geology section includes Delaware-specific mineral and rock collections.
The Discovery Room is a dedicated hands-on space for younger visitors to interact with natural specimens, bones, shells, and geological samples in a tactile setting. Rotating temporary exhibitions bring current science topics from paleontology, ecology, and natural history into focus alongside the permanent collection. The museum's research holdings include a Bird Egg Collection of more than 50,000 specimens — one of the most significant ornithological egg collections in the United States — accessible to researchers by appointment. Free parking is available in the museum lot. A visit of 90 minutes to two and a half hours covers the permanent galleries comfortably. The museum is particularly well-suited for school groups and families on rainy or winter days.
Good to know
- Hours
- Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM; Sunday noon - 4:30 PM; closed Monday
- Best time
- Weekday mornings; excellent for rainy days
Location
4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807
39.8014, -75.5702 View on map
Highlights
- Full-size model blue whale skeleton and African elephant specimen in the entry atrium
- Hall of the Living Ocean with deep-sea and Delaware coastal marine biodiversity
- Delaware Wetlands exhibit with live native reptiles, amphibians, and fish
- Discovery Room — hands-on natural science activity space for children and families
- 50,000-specimen Bird Egg Collection, one of the most significant ornithological collections in the United States
Tips for visiting
- Check the museum's website for current temporary exhibitions before visiting — they change seasonally
- The Discovery Room is best for children under 10; the permanent galleries engage all ages
- Free parking is available in the museum lot directly off Kennett Pike — no parking budget needed
- Combine with a Winterthur garden visit directly across Route 52 for a full Brandywine Valley half-day
- Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM to 4:30 PM hours mean late morning arrivals work well; plan to exit before closing
When to visit
Weekday mornings for the quietest visit. An excellent choice on rainy days or during winter months when outdoor attractions are less viable. Tuesdays are typically the least crowded weekday.
Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible with ramp access at the main entrance, elevator access between floors, and accessible restrooms on each level. All permanent gallery spaces are navigable for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Accessible parking spaces are near the main entrance in the free lot.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science good for young children?
Yes, the museum is well-designed for families with children. The Discovery Room, live animal displays in the wetlands exhibit, and large specimen exhibits including the elephant and whale skeleton are particularly engaging for children under 12.
How long does a visit take?
Most families spend 90 minutes to two and a half hours. Visitors who spend extended time in the Discovery Room or with temporary exhibitions may find two to three hours passes quickly.
Is photography allowed in the museum?
Personal photography is permitted throughout the permanent galleries. Flash photography around live animal exhibits is discouraged to avoid disturbing the animals.