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Wilmington, DE Event Planning

Key Highlights

Hotels 12
Total Sleeping Rooms 1,662
Committable Sleeping Rooms* 244
Committable Meeting Rooms* 33
Largest Exhibit Space 22,000 Sq. Ft.
Largest Ballroom 12,800 Sq. Ft.
Average Hotel Room Rate USD $115
Average Daily Meal Cost USD $56
Average Weekly Car Rental USD $523
*Maximum for a single hotel
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Wilmington, DE Meeting Planning Overview

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.

About Wilmington, DE / Additional Info

Located at the confluence of the Christina River and Brandywine Creek in the picturesque Brandywine Valley, Wilmington's serene landscape belies the hard-working, industrious spirit of its history. The city sprang to life as center for goods during the Civil War. By 1868, it was rated first in production of gunpowder and second in carriages and leather by 1868.

Wilmington continued to prosper in industry with the advent of railroads and with war-related goods during the both World Wars. Today, Delaware's two remaining homegrown Fortune 1000 companies are headquartered in Wilmington. As industry grew, so did the city's population. Presently over 70,000 people reside in its 17 square miles.

Though small in size, Wilmington is certainly not small in attractions, many of which reflect its storied heritage. Visit the Hagley Museum and Library to learn about the du Pont family, who first established a gun powder mill in the city in 1802 that has transformed into the world's 2nd largest chemical company DuPont. Or, visit world-famous Longwood Gardens, the former estate of Pierre S. du Pont that now serves as home to 11,000 types of plants and more fountains than any other garden in the United States.

Of course Wilmington offers much more to explore than history. Shopping fanatics regularly flock to the city to take advantage of Delaware's tax-free status. Explore the charming shops and boutiques of Trolley Square and Little Italy, visit tried-and-true chains at Christiana Mall, or pick up a bargain at Shipyard Shops outlets. Meanwhile, the arts come alive at the Riverfront Wilmington, thanks to the Delaware Theatre Company, which offers a diverse five-play season ranging from classics to contemporary works.

Riverfront Wilmington is also the place to be for dining and nightlife. Enjoy a cold, hand-crafted brew at the riverside Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, or savor the fresh, hand-selected seafood at Big Fish Grill. For post-meal entertainment, C.W. Harborside's bar offers two pool tables, a regulation shuffleboard table, and a number of nightly challenges and specials. From casual nightlife to historic estates, Wilmington carries on Delaware's legacy as First State by putting its guests first as well.

 
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