Delaware Kennett Pike

The Delaware Kennett Pike, known today as Route 52, was constructed between 1811 and 1813. It’s part of both the Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway and Delaware Byway, and has historical significance to boot.

Most of the route is also part of the Harriett Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. While the Delaware portion of the route is fairly short, you can still enjoy a fun-filled road trip along this stretch of historic highway.

Start

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Did you know that you can celebrate #blackhistorymonth by visiting the #delawarehistorymuseum and it’s recently added Mitchell Center for African American Heritage? The museum is located at 504 N. Market St. in Wilmington and is open every Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is just $6. https://www.visitwilmingtonde.com/blog/post/visit-the-newly-renovated-delaware-history-museum-and-new-center-for-african-american-heritage/

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Begin your trip at the start of the route in downtown Wilmington, Delaware. You’ll find the Delaware History Museum and the African American Heritage Center.

Grab a bite to eat at the Chelsea Tavern or Tonic Bar and Grille. And save room for the macaroons at the Hotel DuPont. Stroll it all off on the beautiful Wilmington Riverwalk, which promises great views and people-watching.

Then

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Walk along the creek with the family. Lots of purple flowers and happy people enjoying nature. #arborealupskirts #trees #naturephotography #treesofinstagram #valleygardenpark #greenvillede #delaware #spring

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Continue to Greenville, home of the Delaware Museum of Natural History, which has collections devoted to birds, mollusks, mammals, and more.

Want to get some fresh air? Head to tranquil Valley Garden Park, where you can walk, picnic, or enjoy the beautiful trees and miniature waterfalls that dot the park.

Keep going a bit farther north, and you’ll reach the town of Winterthur. There’s a grand estate of the same name that boasts a museum, garden, and library. The former home of Henry Francis du Pont, Winterthur houses an incredible art collection, which you can see on one of the many guided tours. The estate is also kid-friendly—there’s a designated children’s garden (Enchanted Woods) and an interactive “Touch-It” room, and hands-on gallery activities.

Then

Before you cross the state line into Pennsylvania, make a stop at Brandywine Creek State Park. It’s a former dairy farm owned by the du Pont family. Today, the park is divided into three nature preserves: the Freshwater Marsh, Flint Woods, and Tulip Tree Woods.

There are multiple walking/running trails, plus all kinds of wildlife, especially birds. Hawks, songbirds, deer, and many others make their home here. You’ll also find lots of wildflowers, which cover the floor of Tulip Tree Woods.