Did you know there’s a Utopian town hiding just outside of Wilmington? As you stroll through the streets you’ll encounter performers, friendly faces, beautiful artisan shops and architecture that’s unique to this little corner of New Castle County. Every time I visit, it reminds me of stepping back in time, or into a storybook – I can almost see the Disney characters walking the streets with birds on their shoulders. Arden is an incredible town with an incredible past, and you absolutely must visit.

The Village of Arden is truly Delaware's fairy tale town!
The Arden Club
The town was founded in the early 1900s by utopian philosophers, who wanted a single-tax artist's communtiy, and found land for it just outside of Wilmington.
Arden is full of Gilds that keep the founder's ideas and spirits alive.
Wikimedia Commons
There's a Shakespeare Gild, a Dinner Gild, a Poetry Gild, a Garden Gild and so many more Residents of Arden meet with their gilds frequently to plan events and socialize.
It's not unusual to see folks walking through town dressed in vintage clothes!
Arden Shakespeare Gild
Whether they're dressed for their part in a play put on by the Shakespeare Gild or wearing flowy, flowery clothes of the 1960s and 1970s, the people of Arden love to express themselves in what they wear.
If you only visit Arden once, make sure it's for a performance!
Facebook / Arden Shakespeare Gild
The Shakespeare Gild and Poetry Gild are both worth seeing, and you'll love watching Arden natives give their all on stage for a show. The largest draw for visitors to Arden is the Concert Gild, with large touring acts stopping by frequently year round.

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The annual Arden Fair is worth a trip, too!
Facebook / The Arden Fair
With artisans displaying handmade crafts, clothing and art, it's a truly unique experience.
Facebook / The Arden Fair
And the sense of community you find in Arden is unmatched by any other town.
Facebook / The Arden Gild Hall
Arden is truly a unique place in the First State, so plan your visit to Delaware's fairy tale town.
Facebook / Joe del Tufo
You can find out more information about the Gild schedules on the Arden Club website. be sure to give yourself time to stroll through the town and enjoy the inspiring, original architecture that plays a part in making this town seem so magical.

There are so many unique towns in Delaware that it’s hard to say if I have a favorite… but Arden may just hold that top spot! There are a few other incredible hidden gems in the First State that you’ll also love – like the Historic New Castle, and the lovely, diverse Georgetown.

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