Crowds gather for the Grand Opening of the Center

Breathtaking!  That’s the only word for the brand new Dupont Environmental Education Center overlooking the Russell Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge that opened in Wilmington on October 9, 2009.  15 years and $14,000,000 in the making, the Riverfront Development Corporation of Delaware has reclaimed what may be one of the most beautiful wetlands on the east coast near the headwaters of the Christina River.  Just a few steps from bustling riverfront shops and restaurants, a foot bridge rises up from the reeds to transport visitors to a side of Wilmington that few ever knew existed – a wildlife paradise with over 200 different species of birds and animals above, on top of and under the marshes.

But, as they say, “getting there is [only] half the fun.”  In a few hundred feet you reach the Wildlife Center itself, complete with a four story watch tower to enjoy nature from every angle.  The Center blends perfectly into an undulating landscape, but as we all know “it’s what’s inside the counts.”  You won’t be disappointed.  The Delaware Nature Society has worked with the developers to create displays and design educational programs for nature lovers of all ages.  And if you don’t drive, take AMTRAK or SEPTA (commuter rail from Philadelphia) to Wilmington’s Amtrak Station.  Then enjoy a leisurely fifteen-minute stroll along the Christina River Boardwalk past the Shipyard Shops to the Environmental Center. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite at the Urban Wildlife Refuge enjoy a great lunch or dinner at one of the six unique waterfront restaurants on the Christina, or catch a quick snack at the Riverfront Market.  And don’t forget parking is completely free wherever you go on the Wilmington waterfront. 

TravelTip: The Kalmar Nyckel, America’s largest colonial tall ship, often docks at Dravo Plaza on the Christina River for public cruises during the summer months, so check the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation website to coordinate your visit to the Wildlife Refuge with a once-in-a-lifetime sail on a real tall ship.