Friday, March 29, 2024

Dairy Palace: Sweet Treats in New Castle from Spring through September

There’s something about a neighborhood ice cream shop that can’t fail to bring back the good memories. This family-owned and operated stand is a New Castle institution. Generations of kids have spent their summer evenings having dessert at the Dairy Palace, idly enjoying a giant-sized ice cream cone doused in rainbow sprinkles. The ice cream is rich, creamy, and flavorful, whether you get it in a cone, a sundae, a float, or a shake. The malted milkshakes are expertly-made, and the banana splits are perfect for sharing.

With so many tasty treats, the Dairy Palace is more than just an ice cream shop – it’s a touchstone of the New Castle community.

Dairy Palace
2 Jay Drive
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 328-9740
http://www.yelp.com/biz/dairy-palace-new-castle

Delaware Children’s Theatre: Community Performing Arts

The Delaware Children’s Theatre began as a program to bring the joys of theater to schools, and has grown over three decades to become one of the finest family entertainment venues in the area. Located in an historic building, the Delaware Children’s Theatre has consistently presented outstanding theatrical productions. And best of all, it’s a real community undertaking. Kids and adults can take acting workshops, and there is also a summer camp for kids. If you have the acting bug, you are welcome to audition. Who knows, you might just be a local star! Join the dedicated volunteer corps and help out behind the scenes. Or just show your support by coming to one of the Delaware Children’s Theatre’s shows and events throughout the year. You can call the box office or order your tickets online.

Delaware Children’s Theatre
1014 Delaware Avenue
Wilmington, DE 19806
(302) 655-1014
www.dechildrenstheatre.org
www.yelp.com/biz/delaware-childrens-theatre-wilmington

Highland Orchards Farm Market: Local Food in Wilmington

Situated right in the middle of a quaint neighborhood in the city of Wilmington, the Highland Orchards Farm Market offers fresh local produce. With over 200 acres of farmland in the city, Highland Orchards offers you the opportunity to pick your own fruits and vegetables in season during the summer and early fall. Or go to the Farm Market where fresh picked produce is already displayed for sale. Open every day in the Summer and Fall, the Farm Market backs community supported agriculture. Get a CSA card and subscription, and get great deals on fruit, vegetables, eggs, dairy products, honey, and preserves, all produced locally from area farms. Don’t miss going to the bakery, where apply cider doughnuts are available year-round. There are outstanding artisan breads and don’t leave without picking up a fresh-baked pie!

Highland Orchards Farm Market
1431 Foulk Road
Wilmington, DE 19803
(302) 478-4042
www.highlandorchardsfarmmarket.com
www.yelp.com/biz/highland-orchards-farm-market-wilmington

Catch an Action Flick in 3D at Penn Cinema IMAX

Instead of standing in a winding line at the box office, moviegoers at Penn Cinema IMAX step right up to one of four kiosks that dispense tickets. The system is much faster and more efficient than your typical movie theater, a fact that many Yelpers are quick to point out in their glowing reviews of the theater. Grabbing tickets quickly isn't the only reason locals choose Penn Cinema IMAX, though.

They also appreciate the all-encompassing experience of seeing a movie in one of the massive IMAX theaters. Lean back in one of the large, comfy chairs in the stadium-style auditorium and allow yourself to get completely swept away in the action. The high-energy flicks that are screened in the IMAX theaters typically include some 3D action, so grab a pair of glasses before you head inside. You also might want to pick up a few snacks, first. Locals like the pretzel bites, but you can't go wrong with standard popcorn and soda, either.

Penn Cinema IMAX
401 S. Madison Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(302) 656-4314
www.penncinema.com
www.yelp.com/biz/penn-cinema-riverfront-imax-wilmington

Downtown Newark: Lots To See & Do

There is always something happening in Downtown Newark. It’s a college town, a colonial treasure and a bustling business sector, all rolled into one! Bring the family and you’ll always find something special on Main Street. If you’re looking to shop, you’ll find an eclectic mix of stores as varied as they are interesting. Where else can you find a jewelry store down the street from a classic comic book shop?

Or just walk around and discover the varied history of this area as part of the Nation’s “First State.” On a nice day, you can’t beat the scenery, even if you just want to people watch! And dining can be a difficult choice because there are over 60 restaurants on Main Street and adjoining streets. No matter what you want, it's just a short walk away — and just minutes from Riverfront Heights!

Visit enjoydowntownnewark.com to learn more!

Iron Hill Park: Enjoy the Delaware Outdoors

Iron Hill Park is proof that anything can be turned into a natural wonder. Located on Old Baltimore Pike, Iron Hill Park served as an iron mine for many years. Now, local volunteers have lovingly restored it as a 335 acre community jewel. This is a terrific spot to bring the family and enjoy the beauty of nature.

There’s plenty of room in the picnic area for families and friends to gather, and everyone is welcome to take a hike to get some exercise. Photography is not only allowed, it’s encouraged! There are monthly nature tours, and bring the family to the Iron Hill Park Museum. Operated by the Delaware Academy of Science, the museum is a place of fun and learning.

Visit Iron Hill Park's website to learn more!

Iron Hill Park
Old Baltimore Pike
Newark, DE 19702

Rockwood Park & Museum: Behold the Beauty

You don’t have to travel abroad to enjoy a true English garden; just come to Rockwood Park & Museum! The Museum is a mansion built by a merchant banker, whose goal was to create his Gothic Revival mansion and garden in the classic English style, and the results do not disappoint. The architecture, furnishings, and works of art truly make it a museum worth visiting, as are the surrounding gardens. Guided tours are given Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday from Noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $4 for children and free to kids under six and all active military personnel. There are also great seasonal events, like the Ice Cream Festival and the Ghost Tours!

Rockwood Park & Museum
87 Reads Way
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 761-4340
http://www.yelp.com/biz/rockwood-mansion-park-museum-new-castle

New Candlelight Theatre: Where Dinner Theater Thrives

Dinner theater is alive and well in Wilmington at the New Candlelight Theatre. Located in the neighborhood of Arden, the New Candlelight Theatre literally began as a barn where they put on shows. But it has evolved into a place where great dining and entertainment come together. And oh, what entertainment there is! The calendar always has a great selection of popular musicals and plays. And once a month, the Candlelight turns into a comedy club. All tickets include a buffet dinner, so make your reservations and be prepared to enjoy a tasty meal that includes favorites like ribs, Swedish meatballs, fish filet, and peel and eat shrimp. There’s also a nice wine list to complement your meal, and if you’re celebrating a special occasion, cakes are available. Check the website for a calendar of upcoming shows and more information.

New Candlelight Theatre
2208 Millers Road
Ardentown, DE 19810
(302) 475-2313
www.nctstage.org
www.yelp.com/biz/new-candlelight-theatre-wilmington

Ride and Hike at Carousel Park and Equestrian Center

Whether you're just looking to go for a hike or want to learn how to ride a horse, you can accomplish your goal at Carousel Park and Equestrian Center. The Wilmington park sprawls across 217 acres of flourishing nature, filled with emerald meadows and sparkling blue ponds. Miles and miles of paths wind throughout the woods, offering a serene spot to collect your thoughts or chat with a friend.

If you're interested in the equestrian part of the park, head to the center and take a horseback-riding lesson or just go for a tour of the barn. You can also BYOhorse and set out on the cross-country trail, which will teach your steed how to safely navigate different types of terrain. The Equestrian Center even hosts "pony parties" every autumn Saturday and Sunday, when your little ones can come take a spin on a smaller steed.

Carousel Park and Equestrian Center
3700 Limestone Road
Wilmington, DE 19808
(302) 995-7670
www.nccde.org/425/Carousel-Park-Equestrian-Center
www.yelp.com/biz/carousel-park-new-castle-county-equestrian-center-wilmington

Picnic, Bird-Watch or Fish at Brandywine Creek State Park

At an impressive 933 acres, it's no wonder that Brandywine Creek State Park plays host to such a huge spectrum of activities. Some of the activities are simple, like enjoying the sights and aromas in the Tulip Tree Woods. One of Delaware's first nature preserves, this grove of tulip poplar dates back nearly 200 years. So does the Freshwater Marsh, where bluebirds flit to and fro and wildflowers thrive.

You can also go bird-watching at the park, which is home to more than bluebirds. Many types of hawks soar overhead, so keep an eye out. If you're interested in fishing, Brandywine Creek teems with bluegill, crappie, and small mouth bass, while Wilsons Run has trout. Near the lakes there are 14 miles' worth of trails. They're an ideal spot to go for a run or a hike, or to capture a special photograph. Once you're done, spread out a blanket on one of the lawns and read a book, fly a kite, or have a picnic.

Brandywine Creek State Park
41 Adams Dam Road
Wilmington, DE 19807
(302) 577-3534
www.destateparks.com/park/brandywine-creek
www.yelp.com/biz/brandywine-creek-state-park-greenville

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