We had never made the effort to visit Wilmington as we always thought of it as a run down and desolate place that really was of no interest to us. So when our friends boasted of what a wonderful time they had spent there you can imagine our surprise. They told stories of fantastic river walks and great restaurants and of fun and laughter; they also told us that it was a very reasonably priced place to visit. So the next weekend we decided to take their advice and try it out for ourselves, therefore, with the kids safely stowed away in the back seats we started the car for our drive into the city of Wilmington.
As it was a wonderfully sunny and warm day we carried on following in the footsteps of our friends by heading for the riverfront. Here we found a wonderful walk with the shipping yards in the distance and some superb eateries and cafes dotted all along the way. There were also plenty of benches along the way to rest if we needed to. This worked out as the perfect place to stretch our legs after the long drive and when we had worked up an appetite we stopped at the seafood restaurants for a quick bite to eat.
Then we made our way to the Christina Riverboat Company dock to take a boat trip along the river. We thought it would be a great way to relax after our meal, but, as it turned out, it was in fact a history lesson and comedy routine all rolled into one. The boat’s captain was a real gem and knew just about everything that there is to know about Wilmington and its history. He made learning fun with his easy going attitude and jokes and he even let the kids have a go at steering the boat. This was something that they were keen, but unsuccessful, in trying to do again in the car on the way home.
As daytime moved toward night we decided to catch the ball game at Frawley Stadium. The parking was easy and the price of the tickets was very affordable. In the past it has always been difficult to be able to see a game live at the stadium with the whole family because of the cost. Not here, I just wished we lived nearer as we would undoubtedly become regular visitors. There were even fireworks thrown in, which really topped the day off.
Unfortunately everything was over far too quickly and it was time to drive home. After an hour or so the kids were fast asleep in the back of the car and my wife and I settled in for the rest of the journey. I realized that we all had huge grins on our faces and that it had been too long since we had enjoyed a day as much as this.
Needless to say that this was our first, but by no means last visit to Wilmington as we now travel there on a regular basis. The only difference being that we now tend to book flight and hotel room (in Danish fly og hotel) and make a weekend of it.
Comments