There's nothing anyone loves more than a scenic day trip, and Brandywine County, situated right between Pennsylvania and Delaware, fits the bill. This drive starts on Route 100 and takes drivers straight to Route 52, covering a distance of only 19 miles in between the two. However, it's what one will see along the way that makes this short drive through the scenic hillside so worth it.

The best seasons to take this trip are during the spring and fall and since it's such a short drive, visitors can afford to visit both times. During the spring, the setting is full of lush greenery with wildflowers lining both sides of the river the flanks the route. During the fall, the trees are alive with brilliant autumn colors, making it the perfect way to celebrate the season change. Here's what to do and see during a day trip through Brandywine County.

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A Little About Historic Brandywine

While many people head to Virginia's Historic Triangle or stick to Pennsylvania to learn about Amish County, just as much history is alive in Brandywine County. The area itself sits on the border of southern Chester County, Pennsylvania, and the northern county of New Castle, Delaware. Both of these locations are known for their significance in colonial America. Chester County was the location of the Battle of Brandywine (hence the name) while New Castle is the location where the paper used for the Declaration of Independence was milled, as well as the country's first form of currency. Therefore, just paying a visit to this county is an exciting adventure - but it's not only for history lovers.

The scenery in and around Brandywine combines the best of Pennsylvania's rolling hills and Delawares lush green landscape to create something altogether unique. Driving through Brandywine is like traveling through a Bob Ross painting, complete with seasonal foliage dotting the landscape and a road that snakes its way around Brandywine River.

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What To Do In Brandywine County

The drive is lovely, but there's plenty to fill the itinerary with, as well. Although the drive between the two main routes in this county is short, the list of things to do calls for a weekend, at least!

Longwood Gardens

Why spend the entire time driving through incredible scenery, when it's possible to be fully immersed in it, as well? Longwood Gardens gives visitors the chance to see Brandywine's flora and fauna up-close and personal, with a professional touch. There, visitors will be treated to an outdoor topiary, a massive number of indoor gardens (20 of them, to be exact), and lakes that are fed water by the local springs. The entire area encompasses a distance of 1,077 acres, so there's plenty to see in one day here - so much so, that one might not have the chance to see it all (and wouldn't it be a shame to add an extra day to the itinerary?).

  • Hours: Thursday - Saturday 10 AM - 9 PM / Sunday, Monday & Wednesday 10 AM - 6 PM, Closed Tuesdays
  • Admission: Adults - $25, Seniors (62+) - $22, College Students - $22, Military - $18, Youth (13 and under) - $13, Children (4 and under) - free

Brandywine River Museum of Art

Those interested in spending a few hours perusing American artwork will be happy to stumble upon the Brandywine River Museum of Art. This local attraction features the works of N.C., Andrew, and Jamie Wyeth, all of which are housed in a historic grist mill. Visitors who find themselves at the museum during the holiday season will also be treated to a historic model train display.

  • Hours: Wednesday - Monday, 9:30 AM - 4 PM / Closed Tuesdays
  • Admission: Adults - $18, Seniors (65+) - $15, Students and Youth (ages 6-18) - $6, Children (Under 5) - free

Penns Woods Winery

Those looking to experience a bit of Pennsylvania's finest wine can stop in at Penns Woods Winery, which is producing 100% local, Pennsylvania grapes for its incredible wines. The winery is also completely family-run, so guests will be in for a personal and intimate wine tasting experience. The tasting room is located in Chadds Ford, which is only a 15-minute drive from Brandywine. At the winery, guests can look forward to events such as food and wine pairings, live music, interactive classes, and guided tastings. The wines offered by Penns Woods vary and include a great variety, and something can be found for every type of wine lover.

  • Hours: Sunday - Thursday 12 PM - 6 PM, Friday & Saturday 12 PM - 7 PM
  • Reservations: Required on Saturdays and Sundays; Monday through Friday hosts open seating on a first-come, first-served basis
  • Wines: The wine selection varies based on the season, but Penns Woods offers multiple wines in both white, rose, and red varieties

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