Last Minute Travel Deals to Wilmington

Wilmington Delaware Last Minute

The largest city in the state of Delaware, Wilmington occupies a spot of land close to where the Christina River flows into the Delaware River. The city has a rich history going back to the first settlers, who came from Sweden in 1638 and established the colony of Fort Christina. Wilmington was actually named by Proprietor Thomas Penn for his friend Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington in Great Britain. Today, Wilmington has a population of approximately 73,000.

The Civil War helped Wilmington develop into a center for industry and allowed for the growth that made it one of the more important metropolitan areas in the state. Ships, railroad cars, gunpowder, shoes, tents, uniforms, blankets and other goods for the War were produced here. This growth allowed the city to expand to include larger residential areas clad with elegant homes and tree-lined streets. In an area to the east of downtown, you can find “Historic Wilmington,” which encompasses a loop from Seventh Street to Church Street.

A central location also gives Wilmington an edge as one of the best places in the area to visit. In addition to everything that this city offers, last minute visitors can easily get to Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington DC and New York City from here. Both Philadelphia and Baltimore are under an hour away, so it would be a breeze to visit more than one major city on your last-minute vacation.

If you make your trip in the spring or the summer, you’ll be in for a special treat. Many ethnic festivals are held here when the weather is warm, such as the Italian festival with its traditional Italian music, food, and activities. Carnival rides and games will keep the young ones busy. The Greek festival is another local favorite, and large crowds come to enjoy the celebration.

Of course, there is plenty in Wilmington to keep you busy no matter what time of year you go. Magnificent museums give visitors a taste of history, art, and culture. Besides the Delaware Art Museum and the Museum of Natural History, you could also visit the Winterthur Museum, Longwood Gardens and a host of other cultural attractions. Wilmington certainly does not lack a taste for the finer things.

In fact, if you head to Market Street, you can visit the Delaware History Center, which is a whole block comprised of several historical and cultural landmarks. The History Museum, a kid’s museum, and the Historical Society of Delaware Research Library are located here. In addition, there is Old Town Hall, a gorgeous Georgian style building built in 1798 as a site for abolitionists to meet. You can get some fresh air at Willington Square, a historic park surrounded by some prominent 18th and 19th-century buildings that were once homes.

For a special romantic treat, take your sweetheart on a riverboat tour on a water taxi. The tour follows a three mile stretch and stops along the way nine times. A lunch, dinner, or moonlight cruise is sure to impress your loved-one.

Any sports fans on your trip? Take them to the Delaware Sports Museum and Hall of Fame. The exhibits feature the stories and accomplishments of not only Delaware’s athletes and coaches but administrators, officials, sportswriters, and broadcasters as well.

You’ll be surprised to find all the hidden treasures of this charming city.