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ATTRACTIONS
"Here amidst the rolling hills of southern Chester county is where the Battle of Brandywine was fought and the paper milled for the Declaration of Independence and America's first currency. Here is where the duPonts made their fortunes, built a company and their mansions and where three generations of Wyeths have lived and painted the landscapes and people of Chadds Ford. Come discover the beauty and wonders of the Brandywine River Valley...our history, art, antiques, mansions and gardens and our unique brand of country casual hospitality." TheBrandywine.com
Museums
Henry Francis duPont assembled a collection of early American antiques (1640-1860) which are displayed in 175 rooms of this country home which is one of the few surviving American country estates. The collection is world renowned. Tour their magnificient gardens, visit the galleries, the Campbell Soup Tureen collection and the exquisite gift shop.
Situated on the banks of the Brandywine River in Chadds Ford, the museum houses the premier collection of three generations of the Wyeth family, as well as works by Howard Pyle and other important American illustrators. The museum offers the visitor the opportunity to relax and enjoy the river setting while touring the gallery. You will wan to allow at least one and half hours to enjoy.
BRANDYWINE BATTLEFIELD - Chadds Ford, PA
See artifacts that bring life to the Battle of Brandywine, times in which it was fought, people, Washington's Headquarters, and Lafayett's Quarters. Site includes museum. Also do the Driving Tour. Allow two or more hours.
Valley Forge is perhaps the best-known place name associated with the American Revolution. To truly enjoy the park, it is important that you understand the significance of the events associated with the winter encampment of 1777-78. The National Park Service provides various programs, tours, and other interpretive activities to help you grasp fully the dramatic story Valley Forge has to tell.
The first duPont family home in America, Eleutherian Mills, was built by E.I. duPont in 1803. Situated on the crest of a hill, it affords a commanding view of the Brandywine River, with a dam which fed water to the original millrace. This charming Georgian-style residence is furnished with antiques and memorabilia of the five generations of duPonts associated with the home. Adjoining it is the restored French-style garden created by E.I. duPont, an avid botanist.
NEMOURS MANSION AND GARDENS - Wilmington, DE
Nemours is the 300-acre country estate of the late industrialist and philanthropist Alfred I. duPont. The estate looms over the 47,000 sq. ft. mansion surrounding formal gardens and is furnished with fine antiques, famous works of art, beautiful tapestries, and other treasures. The grounds surrounding the mansion extend for one third of a mile along the main vista from the house, and are among the finest examples of French-style gardens in the United States.
AMISH COUNTRY - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster's Amish country is only a short 45 minute drive drive through the rolling countryside of Chester and Lancaster counties. Spend a day in Amish country and enjoy the simple life as you pass Amish carriages and farms. We have a great route that keeps you off the main roads and captures the beauty and splendor of the people who "live apart."
DELAWARE ART MUSEUM - Wilmington, DE
Has the foremost collection of Pre-Raphaelite collection in America. The museum has undergone a $30 milion renovation with all new galleries and a sculpture garden.
ROCKWOOD MUSEUM - Wilmington, DE
Rockwood Museum, listed on the National Register of Histofic Places, is an excellent example of Rural Gothic architecture. Built from 1851-1857 for Joseph Shipley, the mansion was situated within 300 acres of woods. Today, the museum is maintained on 72 of the original acres and includes the mansion and orter's lodge, gardener's cottage, bard and other outbuildings.
PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART - Philadelphia, PA
Major exhibits have included collections of paintings from around the world by artists such as Van Gogh and Manet. Excellent permanent collections of modern art.
WHARTON ESHERICK MUSEUM - Valley Forge, PA
Guided tours through the unique handcrafted home/studio of the late "Dean of American Craftsmen." Reservations required.
AMERICAN HELICOPTER MUSEUM - West Chester, PA
Over 34 helicopters and 40 exhibits trace the history and future of rotor wing flight. Kids can climb aboard and take the controls. Guided tours available. Great for birthday parties and special events. Helicopter rides fourth Saturday of the month.
FRANKLIN INSTITUTE - Philadelphia, PA
An innovator in designing hands-on exhibits before "interactive" became a buzzword, the Franklin Institute is as clever as its namesake. Its eminently touchable attractions explore science in disciplines ranging from sports to space. IMAX theatre.
NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER - Philadelphia, PA
Enter as a visitor...leave as a citizen! The National Constitution Center on Philadelphia's Independence Mall, is the first museum in the world dedicated to honoring and explaining the U.S. Constitution through more than 100 interactive and multi-media exhibits , artifacts and films.
CHADDS FORD HISTORICAL SOCIETY - Chadds Ford, PA
Two 18th century houses - John Chads House and the Barns-Brinton House, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Group tours available by request.