Ardentown DelawareATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ardentown, Delaware.
1. Labyrinth of the Ardens
PEACEFUL MEDITATION PATH
The Labyrinth of the Ardens provides a tranquil setting for reflection and meditation nestled along Millers Road. This seven-circuit labyrinth, a project shared by Arden, Ardentown, and Ardencroft, is beloved for its calming natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a contemplative walk through the winding paths surrounded by serene woodlands.
2. Oddporium
CURIOSITY AND ODDITIES SHOP
Oddporium is Delaware's first and only oddities shop, offering a fascinating collection of strange artifacts and historical curios. The shop features unique items such as animal oddities, medical tools, and X-rays from past eras, drawing both history fans and collectors. Its quirky displays make it a must-visit for those seeking something offbeat and memorable.
3. Arden Gild Hall
HISTORIC ARTS VENUE
Arden Gild Hall is a cultural landmark hosting concerts, plays, lectures, and various community events throughout the year. The hall has a storied history as a center for the arts and continues to support local creative talent. Its lively calendar and charming architecture make it a hub for both residents and visitors.
4. Shakespeare Gild
OUTDOOR THEATER EXPERIENCE
The Shakespeare Gild offers outdoor theater performances, specializing in Shakespearean works, in a unique amphitheater setting. With a tradition spanning over a century, the Gild is a beloved cultural staple in the area. Audiences enjoy high-quality productions in a picturesque, natural space every summer.
5. Arden Fair
ANNUAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
The annual Arden Fair is a celebrated event that brings together locals and visitors for a day of food, crafts, music, and family fun. For over 100 years, it has marked the highlight of the community's calendar, showcasing local artisans and entertainers. The festival's warm atmosphere and variety of activities make it a perennial favorite.
6. Sunnyside Nature Reserve
SCENIC OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Sunnyside Nature Reserve offers ample green space for walking, exploration, and quiet enjoyment within Ardentown's communal land. Managed by the village, it is an ideal spot for birdwatching, picnics, and enjoying native flora. The reserve's well-maintained paths and tranquil ambiance appeal to nature lovers year-round.
7. The Ardens Historic District
HISTORIC VILLAGE ENSEMBLE
The Ardens Historic District is a nationally recognized area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It encompasses the three unique communities of Arden, Ardentown, and Ardencroft, known for their distinctive single-tax land system and arts-focused culture. Walking through the district offers glimpses into the area's progressive social experiments and charming architecture.
8. The Oddporium's Cabinet of Curiosities
ECLECTIC HISTORICAL COLLECTION
The Oddporium's Cabinet of Curiosities presents a rotating display of rare and unusual finds, from anatomical specimens to historical photographs. Curated from abandoned sites and donations, its exhibits provide insight into eccentric medical and social history. This intimate mini-museum encourages visitors to ponder the strange and wonderful aspects of the past.
9. Outdoor Movie Screenings
COMMUNITY FILM NIGHTS
Outdoor movie screenings are a popular summertime activity where residents and guests gather under the stars to enjoy classic and contemporary films. These events foster a sense of community and offer a relaxed, family-friendly entertainment option. The tradition adds to the village's vibrant social calendar.
10. Rockwood Park & Museum
VICTORIAN MANSION AND GARDENS
Rockwood Park & Museum features a beautifully preserved 19th-century Gothic Revival mansion surrounded by picturesque gardens and wooded trails. Visitors can explore the historic home, enjoy guided tours, and attend seasonal festivals and events. The park's serene setting is perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
11. Delaware Art Museum
RENOWNED ART COLLECTION
The Delaware Art Museum is home to an impressive collection of American art, illustration, and the largest assemblage of Pre-Raphaelite art outside the UK. It regularly hosts special exhibitions, family programs, and community workshops. Its sculpture garden and café provide additional spaces for relaxation and inspiration.
12. Alapocas Run State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Alapocas Run State Park offers scenic walking and biking trails, natural rock climbing areas, and lush woodlands just minutes from Ardentown. Its Blue Ball Barn visitor center showcases local history and hosts various events throughout the year. The park is ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
13. Bellevue State Park
HISTORIC ESTATE PARK
Bellevue State Park combines open green spaces, picturesque ponds, and a network of trails on the grounds of a former du Pont estate. The park hosts outdoor concerts, equestrian activities, and seasonal farmers markets. It's perfect for picnicking, jogging, and enjoying Delaware's natural beauty.
14. Stoney's British Pub
TRADITIONAL BRITISH DINING
Stoney's British Pub offers classic British fare in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere complete with authentic décor. Known for its fish and chips, imported beers, and Sunday roasts, the pub draws locals and visitors alike. Live music and trivia nights add to its lively charm.
15. Brandywine Creek State Park
EXPANSIVE NATURAL PARKLAND
Brandywine Creek State Park features rolling meadows, woodlands, and the scenic Brandywine Creek, providing a picturesque backdrop for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. The park is renowned for its wildflower displays and diverse wildlife. Its network of trails makes it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.