Delaware Art Museum
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Delaware Art Museum

4.6
·267 reviews·Wilmington, United States

Discover a world of art from Pre-Raphaelite wonders to American illustrations, complemented by a serene sculpture garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sundays

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
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Delaware Art Museum

Delaware Art Museum

Best Time

Sundays

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a world of art from Pre-Raphaelite wonders to American illustrations, complemented by a serene sculpture garden.

4.6
(267 reviews)

"Beautiful, well curated museum with a diverse collection of paintings from many different time periods."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Sunday Admission

Enjoy the museum's collections for free every Sunday! A great way to experience art on a budget.

🧥 Bring a Sweater!

Reviewers consistently note the museum can be quite cold inside. Pack an extra layer for comfort.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pre-Raphaelite Masterpieces

Pre-Raphaelite Masterpieces

Galleries

Immerse yourself in the romantic and detailed world of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's stunning artworks.

Brandywine School Illustrations

Brandywine School Illustrations

Galleries

Discover the rich tradition of American illustration with works from the renowned Brandywine School.

Sculpture Garden Serenity

Sculpture Garden Serenity

Outdoor grounds

Wander through a beautiful 9-acre sculpture garden, a perfect complement to the indoor exhibits.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Visit on Sundays for free admission, a fantastic deal! Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a more intimate experience with the art. Consider checking for special events or happy hours for a lively atmosphere.

Dress for Comfort (and Cold!)

While the art is inspiring, reviewers consistently mention the museum can be quite chilly inside. Bring a sweater or light jacket to ensure a comfortable visit, especially during warmer months.

Best Times

When
Sundays
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter, more intimate viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings (events)
Why
Live music & social vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

She thought we were going to a day party.. nope! We are going to a museum! A fun one too 😂😂🫶🫶 It was the time of our lives . #artist #travel #museum
@kaylatherealtor00
60K likes • 889.1K views

🎯 Free Sunday Admission

Enjoy the museum's collections for free every Sunday! A great way to experience art on a budget. Reddit

🧥 Bring a Sweater!

Reviewers consistently note the museum can be quite cold inside. Pack an extra layer for comfort. Instagram

Gowns by America’s first Black couture dress designer Ann Lowe are now on display at the Winterthur Museum outside Wilmington, Delaware. Called “society’s best-kept secret,” Lowe made gowns for high society’s special occasions, including Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress. #AnnLowe #JackieKennedy #ISaidYesToTheDress #Couture #Fashion #FashionDesign #WeddingGown #WeddingInspo #Delaware #Wilmington #Wi...
@whyypublicmedia
4.7K likes • 219.8K views
An Unforgettable Night. A Legendary Guest. An Important Cause. Save the Date for a spectacular evening of cocktails and conversation as we welcome Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber to the Delaware Art Museum. This once-in-a-lifetime fundraiser will include an intimate, seated presentation featuring the iconic composer of The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Evita, and more. A devoted collector of British Pre-...
delartmuseum
124 likes • 4.4K views

☕ Cafe & Gift Shop

Grab a bite at the cafe or find a unique souvenir at the gift shop. TikTokInstagram

✨ Sculpture Garden Stroll

Don't miss the beautiful 9-acre sculpture garden, perfect for a relaxing walk. InstagramReddit

👩‍🎨 Art, fun, and family at the Delaware Art Museum! 🎨✨ Discover 3 levels of timeless artwork, a playful kids’ playroom, and outdoor exhibits. 📍2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 🎶 Enjoy live music and more with their exciting events! 🎶 Don’t miss out on this cultural gem. Grab your Brandywine Treasure Trail passport for affordable family fun at multiple Delaware museums from @visitwilmington...
firststatedates
0 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Sunday Admission

Enjoy the museum's collections for free every Sunday! A great way to experience art on a budget. Reddit

🧥 Bring a Sweater!

Reviewers consistently note the museum can be quite cold inside. Pack an extra layer for comfort. Instagram

☕ Cafe & Gift Shop

Grab a bite at the cafe or find a unique souvenir at the gift shop. TikTokInstagram

✨ Sculpture Garden Stroll

Don't miss the beautiful 9-acre sculpture garden, perfect for a relaxing walk. InstagramReddit

🎶 Event Evenings

Check for happy hours with live music and other special events for a lively experience. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(267 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Delaware Art Museum for its beautiful, well-curated collection, featuring a diverse range of art from Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces to American illustrations. The serene sculpture garden is a major draw, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff enhances the experience. While the museum can be quite cold inside, the overall value, especially with free Sunday admission, makes it a highly recommended destination.

"Beautiful, well curated museum with a diverse collection of paintings from many different time periods, styles and regions. A little bit of something for everyone. To top it off the sculpture garden surrounding the museum is a great way to start or finish your experience."

Josh Weber

"I still love this place. The second time around is even better. The staff is so sweet and helpful. Bring a sweater. It's freezing inside!

Highly recommend this place. I discovered new American artists and enjoyed artwork that told stories (thanks to well written historical summaries), made me feel curious, happy, and inspired wonder.

The small-ish museum is located on gorgeous land with trails, greens, picnic areas. And if you want even more, head over to nearby Rockford Park.

Even though there were no tours on the Saturday I went, the sweet person from whom I bought the tix was so knowledgeable. I really appreciate that she understood my frustration with the website and shared that similar feedback has already been shared with IT. She also suggested other area museums I may enjoy based on my preferences."

Tax Professional

"Fantastic museum for fans of the Pre-Raphaelites. The museum is small, but thoughtfully curated with a diverse collection. The exhibit on illustration was very unique."

Nat Fine

What People Like

Diverse and well-curated art
Beautiful sculpture garden
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Museum can be very cold

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Delaware Art Museum is located at 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE. It's situated in a nice part of the city. Reddit Ample parking is available in the back of the museum. Instagram

Information on public transportation routes to the museum can be found on their official website or by checking local transit schedules for Wilmington, DE.

The museum is close to Rockford Park and Rockford Tower, which is also open on Sundays. Reddit Other attractions in Wilmington are also accessible. TikTok

Yes, the staff can suggest other area museums based on your preferences. Reddit Consider nearby Winterthur Museum or Nemours Estate for different experiences. TikTok+1

The museum is generally accessible, with galleries on two floors and outdoor spaces. Specific accessibility details can be found on their website.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Museum hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Delaware Art Museum website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Admission is free on Sundays! Reddit Otherwise, general admission is reasonably priced, often around $18 online. Instagram Check their website for current pricing and any special exhibition fees. TikTok

Yes, purchasing tickets online is recommended and can sometimes offer a slight discount. Reddit The website is user-friendly, though some users have reported minor issues. Reddit

Admission is free on Sundays. Reddit Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Check the museum's website for details. TikTok

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is a good idea, especially for popular exhibition dates or weekend visits, to ensure entry. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

The museum boasts a diverse collection, including Pre-Raphaelite art, Brandywine School illustrations, American artists, and decorative bindings. InstagramReddit

Yes, there's a playful kids' playroom and engaging exhibits that can appeal to younger visitors. Instagram

The 9-acre sculpture garden is a beautiful outdoor space featuring various sculptures, offering a serene environment to explore. InstagramReddit

While tours may not be available every day, the staff is knowledgeable and can provide insights into the collections. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for signage within the galleries or ask museum staff about photo permissions. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located within the museum where you can grab a bite to eat. TikTokInstagram

The cafe typically offers light fare, snacks, and beverages. Specific menu details can be found on their website or by asking staff. Instagram

Yes, there are dining options in the surrounding Wilmington area. Reddit For a unique coffee experience, check out Kaffeina Cafe, tucked inside the museum. Instagram

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, picnic areas might be available on the grounds. Reddit

Yes, the museum has a cute gift shop where you can find art-related items and souvenirs. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is allowed in permanent collection galleries, but check for specific exhibition restrictions. TikTok

Absolutely! The sculpture garden offers beautiful outdoor shots, and many artworks themselves are highly photogenic. TikTokInstagram

The sculpture garden, especially during golden hour, is a popular spot. Instagram Many of the detailed illustrations and vibrant paintings also make for great photos. TikTok

Drone photography is typically not permitted at museums or their grounds due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check with the venue directly.

You can find many photos on the museum's official social media channels, their website, and by searching hashtags like #DelawareArtMuseum on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Delaware Art Museum is a great option for families looking for a cultural outing. The museum features a playful kids' playroom that can keep younger visitors entertained. Instagram The diverse collection, including illustrations, can also capture children's imaginations. Consider visiting on a Sunday for free admission, making it an even more budget-friendly family activity. Reddit

While the museum can be cool inside, bringing a light jacket for the kids is advisable. Instagram The sculpture garden also offers space for kids to explore and enjoy the outdoors. Checking the museum's website for any family-specific events or workshops can further enhance the experience.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Delaware Art Museum offers exceptional value. The highlight is free admission every Sunday, making it a fantastic way to experience art without spending a dime. Reddit Even on other days, the admission price is considered quite inexpensive for the quality and breadth of the collection. Instagram

Beyond admission, exploring the free sculpture garden is another way to enjoy the museum's offerings without additional cost. Instagram Packing your own snacks or enjoying a light meal at the cafe can also help manage expenses. TikTok

💖 Couples & Date Nights

The Delaware Art Museum provides a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for a date. Explore the thoughtfully curated galleries together, sparking conversation and shared appreciation for art. Reddit The sculpture garden is particularly romantic, especially during the golden hour, offering beautiful photo opportunities. Instagram

Keep an eye out for special evening events, such as happy hours with live music, which transform the museum into a lively social hub perfect for a date night. Instagram+1 The museum cafe also offers a convenient spot for a coffee or light bite before or after your art exploration. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Pre-Raphaelites

The Delaware Art Museum holds a significant collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, a movement that emerged in England in the mid-19th century. Artists like Dante Gabriel Rossetti, John Everett Millais, and William Holman Hunt sought to revive the style and spirit of Italian art before Raphael. Their works are characterized by intense detail, vibrant colors, and often feature themes from literature, mythology, and medieval romance. The museum's collection allows visitors to explore this rich artistic period, appreciating the meticulous craftsmanship and evocative storytelling. InstagramReddit

Visitors often express delight at encountering these detailed and romantic paintings. The museum's thoughtful curation ensures that the Pre-Raphaelite works are presented in a way that highlights their historical context and artistic significance. It's a chance to step back in time and immerse yourself in a world of beauty and narrative. Reddit

Brandywine School: A Local Legacy

Beyond European masters, the Delaware Art Museum champions the Brandywine School, a significant tradition of American illustration. This school, flourishing in the Brandywine Valley, produced artists who created iconic images for books, magazines, and advertisements. Think of the charming and narrative illustrations that defined a generation of American storytelling. The museum showcases the talent and versatility of these artists, demonstrating their skill in capturing emotion and narrative through their visual art. TikTokInstagram

This collection offers a unique glimpse into the history of American visual culture. It's a chance to connect with familiar styles and characters that have shaped popular imagination. The museum's dedication to this local artistic heritage makes it a special destination for those interested in the evolution of illustration and its impact on art. Reddit

Sculpture Garden: Art in Nature

The Delaware Art Museum Sculpture Garden is more than just an outdoor space; it's an extension of the museum's artistic offerings. This 9-acre garden provides a serene and engaging environment where visitors can experience art in dialogue with nature. The sculptures are thoughtfully placed amidst the greenery, creating a dynamic and visually stimulating landscape. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering moments of reflection and discovery. InstagramReddit

Many visitors highlight the sculpture garden as a favorite aspect of their visit, appreciating the opportunity to enjoy art al fresco. It's particularly enjoyable during pleasant weather, and some events, like happy hours, even incorporate live music into the garden experience, enhancing the ambiance. Instagram The garden provides a refreshing contrast to the indoor galleries and is a wonderful way to extend your artistic journey. TikTok

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