There’s no question that the DuPonts left their mark on Delaware – particularly in New Castle County. Did you know that you can tour Alfred I. du Pont’s French-style estate, Nemours? While many of us have been nearby, not everyone realizes that this quiet, hidden estate is open to the public.

You’ll want to plan to spend several hours exploring the seemingly endless acres here, so set aside at least half of your day for your visit.

Like most of the DuPont Estates, Nemours is closed for select weeks in the winter. Learn more and plan your visit on the Nemours Estate website, here.

Did you know that one of Delaware’s most elaborate and ornate estates, Nemours, is now open to the public for tours?

Flickr / Robert Lyle Bolton

This 200-acre estate was built by Alfred I. du Pont, and it shares grounds with the childrens’ hospital named in his honor.

Flickr / Peter Miller

No expense was spared, and no detail was overlooked, when it came to crafting this incredible estate.

Flickr / Peter Miller

You may have gussed that the design was inspired by gardens of Versailles, so that the du Ponts would feel like royalty even far from the shores of France.

Flickr / Peter Miller

The idea for the garden and estate was inspired by du Pont’s second wife, Alicia. After all was said and done, the estate is home to the largest French formal garden in North America.

Flickr / Peter Miller

While Winterthur and Longwood Gardens draw most of the attention when it comes to du Pont estates, it’s hard to believe that Nemours sits here like an undiscovered gem.

Flickr / Peter Miller

The home features over 100 rooms, and several are available for the public to see.

Flickr / Peter Miller

The best time to visit Nemours is in the spring time, when the flowers are in bloom and the weather is pleasant.

Flickr / Peter Miller

Be sure to bring some water if you plan to walk around on a sunny day - shade can be hard to find, and you won’t want to cut your visit short!

Flickr / Peter Miller

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Address: Nemours Estate, 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA

Flickr / Robert Lyle Bolton

Flickr / Peter Miller