Wilmington Travel and Things to Do Guide

Located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region, Wilmington is both a beautiful meeting destination and an accessible one. The city is just a three-hour drive from over one-third of the nation's population and fewer than two hours away by train from major metropolitans New York City and Washington, DC. Air travelers can take advantage of daily flights to over 120 domestic and international destinations taking off at Philadelphia International Airport, just 20 minutes away from downtown Wilmington.


Guests will be glad to waste so little time on travel, as the relatively small city of Wilmington packs a powerful punch. With over 1,650 hotel rooms and 91 meeting rooms spread across town, meetings in Wilmington can range from large three-day conferences of over 1,000 people to intimate evening dinners and receptions of under 20 guests. Leading the way in facilities is the Chase Center on the Riverfront, the largest event space in the Brandywine Valley at 87,000 square feet. Host a corporate presentation at one of 17 meeting and breakout rooms, or relax with a cocktail and hors d'oeurve reception in the spacious Atrium Lobby.


The Chase Center serves as the centerpiece of the recently-rejuvenated Riverfront Wilmington, where eateries, tax-free and outlet shops, and entertainment facilities make for a popular tourist stop and a great location for unique events. Take guests out to the ballgame by hosting a casual picnic or elegant dinner at one of the function areas at the Daniel S. Frawley baseball stadium. Or, for rehearsal dinners or corporate functions, the elegant Wilmington Hall offers stunning riverfront views and top-notch cuisine.

Beyond the popular riverfront, Wilmington continues to impress with cultural and historical venues. Groups can immerse themselves in the arts at the stately Delaware Art Museum, held in high regard for its extensive collection of American and British art. Here, spaces such as the Chihuly Bridge area, which spans the museum's colorful Dale Chihuly "Persian Window" installation, create a memorable backdrop for intimate gatherings. Or, impart a taste of Wilmington's heritage to events at the 1,000-acre Winterthur Musuem and Country Estate, which boasts indoor and outdoor facilities for both large and small affairs.


A business giant regarded as a national hub for the credit card industry, insurance retail banking, legal services and automobile manufacturing, Wilmington's major employers include AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, ING Direct, and several DuPont branches. Higher learning also holds a strong presence in the area, as Wilmington is home to the Delaware College of Art and Design, Widener University, Wilmington University, Goldey-Beacom College and branch campuses for the University of Delaware, Drexel University and Delaware State University.