Things To Do
in Claymont
Claymont is a small, residential community in New Castle County, Delaware, located just north of Wilmington. It benefits from quick access to I-95 and SEPTA rail connections, making day trips to Philadelphia or the Brandywine Valley easy. The town preserves a quiet, family-friendly vibe with parks, local shops, and a convenient suburban atmosphere.
Its proximity to larger cities makes it a practical base for travelers who want a relaxed base with easy urban options nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Claymont Historical Society to immerse yourself in the rich local history. You can enjoy a guided tour where knowledgeable staff share captivating stories about the town's heritage. Don't forget to browse the museum's artifacts to gain a deeper appreciation for the area's past.
After a morning of history, grab lunch at a local café where you can taste some traditional American favorites. Spend the afternoon strolling around the nearby William D. Haly Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and maybe even catch some local wildlife. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the winding paths of the park.
As the sun sets, head towards the Claymont Steak Shop for a delicious dinner featuring their famous cheesesteaks. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of activities. Wind down with a stroll along nearby streets, enjoying the small-town charm and perhaps discovering a cozy ice cream shop for dessert.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local diner before heading to the nearby Brandywine Creek State Park. Enjoy a peaceful morning hike along the nature trails, taking in the stunning views and fresh air. Keep an eye out for native birds and other wildlife as you traverse the park's well-maintained paths.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's designated areas surrounded by nature. Afterward, consider trying your hand at fishing or even kayaking if the weather permits. The afternoon allows for relaxation as you soak in the picturesque environment.
As evening approaches, return to Claymont and unwind at a neighborhood pub that features live music. Enjoy a casual dinner while soaking in the local music scene, which often showcases emerging talents. Finish your night with a leisurely walk through the town, reflecting on the tranquility of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🛏️One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $90-180 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a few days | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Wilmington and Philadelphia for day trips
- Good road and rail access
- Quiet suburban feel with easy access to nature
- Rich historic and cultural sites nearby
- Limited nightlife within Claymont itself
- Some services in the area are concentrated in Wilmington
- Traffic on I-95 can be heavy during peak hours
- Limited dedicated tourist infrastructure in Claymont
Places to Visit in Claymont
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush greenery, the winding Brandywine Creek, and historic bridges provide classic riverfront photo opportunities, especially in spring and autumn.
Wide walkways, water views, sculpture, and modern architecture create dynamic angles for sunset and night photography.
Industrial-era buildings set against carefully manicured gardens; a mix of architectural and landscape photography.
Extensive formal and natural garden scenes with elegant grounds and stately structures—great for wide landscape shots.
Food in Claymont
Claymont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pan-seared crab cakes made with local crab meat and served with remoulade or lemon-dill sauce at many seafood spots in Wilmington and along the riverfront.
Must-Try!
Seasonal, light and crispy crabs typically enjoyed with sides like cornmeal hush puppies or greens at coastal and riverfront eateries.
A regional breakfast staple featuring pan-fried slices of seasoned pork and cornmeal served on a roll with egg or cheese.
Widely available in delis and casual eateries around Wilmington; order with onions and your preferred cheese to taste the Philly influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and street-style snacks near downtown Wilmington.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous in queues, practice a polite greeting, and hold doors for others. Tipping is customary for service staff. Dress is typically casual in many eateries, but nicer venues may expect smart casual.
Safety
Tipping in Claymont
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% is customary. You may tip in cash or add it to your card payment. For bar service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade along the riverfront or in parks during peak sun hours.
Mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Ideal for outdoor walks in Brandywine Park and scenic drives through Brandywine Valley.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall. Indoor museums like Hagley and Winterthur are great refuges; layering is key for outdoor time.
Pleasant weather with blooming gardens and river views. Great for photography and outdoor activities in parks and along trails.
Claymont at Night
Hiking in Claymont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails along Brandywine Creek with woods and meadows.
Wooded trails around a native-plant sanctuary in nearby Hockessin.
Airports
How to reach Claymont by plane.
Major international hub about 25 miles southwest; accessible by car or rail via SEPTA/Amtrak.
Closer regional airport near Wilmington; primarily domestic flights; easy drive from Claymont.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest racial group in the Claymont area, with ongoing community diversity.
Significant community presence with cultural and civic organizations.
Growing demographic with family-run businesses and community groups.
Smaller but present community, contributing to overall diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in community leagues and nearby professional markets; accessible via regional parks and school facilities.
Common recreational and school sports with local gyms and fields throughout the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Claymont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer vegetable-forward dishes; look for salads, grain bowls, veggie burgers, and seafood/fish options. Ask for meat-free preparations and check for cross-contamination if needed.