In the rollings hills outside of Wilmington, a beautiful mansion is hidden in the trees. Winterthur was built by Henry Francis DuPont as a stunning estate surrounded by 1,000 acres of preserved hills and meadow. A 60 acre garden is regarded as one of the most incredible in country, and several of the acres are set aside to create a fairy garden for children and adults alike to enjoy. The landscape architecture at Winterthur is gorgeous, lush and green – almost like it’s hiding Brigadoon or Middle Earth in Delaware.

Explore the grounds to see for yourself.
Flickr / Fred Schroeder
The massive trees look almost unreal if you catch them at dusk, with a golden glow coming off of them.
The Fairy Garden itself is the most magical part of Winterthur.
Flickr / Jim the Photographer
If you really want to feel like you've found middle earth in Delaware, wander through the Enchanted Woods to see what the Fairies, Hobbits and Trolls have built on the grounds.
Climbing through the Bird's Nest will make you feel like a kid again.
Flickr / Harvey Barrison
This oversized creation is home to the music fairy, and her songs will lift your spirits as you enjoy the feeling of being lost in an enchanted forest.
Of course, the elf and hobbit houses throughout Wintherthur's woods contribute to the feeling of finding Middle Earth in Delaware.
Flickr / Harvey Barrison
Between the Tulip Tree House, the Acorn Tea Room and more, the little houses for the fairies and elves of Winterthur make you really feel like you've stepped into the Lord of the Rings.

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Whatever you do, don't wander into a Fairy Ring!
Flickr / Jim the Photographer
Legend says those who wander into a mushroom fairy ring get sucked into the Fairy's world, never to return.
Outside of the Enchanted Woods, the lush green landscape lines the paths you'll wander.
Flickr / Robert Bolton
It's hard not to feel like you're on some sort of Middle Earth mission, particularly in Spring when the Winterthur gardens are at their brightest.
Just look at the sprawling, rolling hills!
Facebook / Winterthur
Sit down to reflect on the beauty of nature nearly anywhere at Winterthur. From the lakes to the trees to the beautiful lavender fields, you'll have no problem finding a peaceful place to relax and observe the stunning scene in front of your eyes.
It's hard to believe that these grounds are even real.
Facebook / Winterthur
Winterthur's woods and gardens are the most enchanting place in Delaware. Depending on the light, you might feel like you've even stumbled upon Brigadoon. There's no place on earth quite like this, and it's hiding right in our little state!
Start to plan your visit now - Winterthur gets crowded when the weather warms up!
Facebook/Winterthur Museum
The House and Gardens open back up on March 1, so you have plenty of time to plan the perfect family day trip.

Visit Winterthur at 5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807. Their schedule of events will help you plan your visit for a time when the Gardens are bustling with events, or if you prefer, quiet and serene. Winterthur reopens for spring exploration on March 1st.

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