Lodge Du Pont Evaluate: A Luxurious Keep & Eating Information in Wilmington, DE

Our current keep at this historic landmark impressed this Lodge Du Pont overview – a information to experiencing one in every of Delaware’s most iconic lodging.

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There’s one thing particular a couple of getaway that feels each indulgent and easy. For us, the Lodge Du Pont is a staycation—an opportunity to immerse ourselves in luxurious with out venturing removed from house.

Whether or not you’re a Delaware native or simply visiting, this iconic resort presents a timeless escape. It blends Gilded Age grandeur with trendy comforts, the place each element invitations you right into a world of class, allure, and distinctive eating.

If unwinding means sipping cappuccinos at Le Cavalier, having fun with craft cocktails at The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge, or exploring close by points of interest just like the Delaware Artwork Museum and Longwood Gardens, then Lodge Du Pont belongs in your checklist.

We simply returned from a beautiful weekend right here and are already planning our subsequent go to.

Right here’s what makes it such a standout.

Lodge Du Pont Evaluate: Wilmington, Delaware’s Gilded Age Masterpiece

Ranked #7 on TripAdvisor’s Most Fashionable U.S. Accommodations, this downtown Wilmington property isn’t only a place to remain—it’s an expertise steeped in historical past, allure, and luxurious.

Opened in 1913 after two years of building, the 217-room Lodge Du Pont is a shocking testomony to Gilded Age structure, meticulously preserved to today. Grasp French and Italian artisans crafted its European chandeliers, intricate hand-carved woodwork, and beautiful mosaic and terrazzo flooring over a century in the past.

At first look, the resort’s exterior seems understated, however stepping inside reveals its legacy.

Whereas trendy furnishings now enhances the house, the traditional bones stay intact. Merely stress-free within the foyer, you’ll immediately really feel enveloped by its wealthy historical past and timeless allure.

 💡 Professional Tip: In the event you’re driving in, I extremely advocate their valet possibility. Sure, there are parking garages shut by, however the comfort of the valet right here can’t be beat.

Through the years, the resort has hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and even royalty. Only a few embrace President Jimmy Carter, First Girl Eleanor Roosevelt, Elizabeth Taylor, Katharine Hepburn, Bette Davis, Amelia Earhart, Lucille Ball, Bob Hope, Norman Rockwell, Reese Witherspoon, Whoopi Goldberg, Duke Ellington, Paul McCartney, and Warren Buffet. There are such a lot of extra. Legend has it that in 1955 Prince Rainier of Monaco negotiated for the hand of Grace Kelly on this very resort.

Examine in on the entrance desk right here was genuinely pleasant and a complete breeze. If in case you have any questions on your keep or want suggestions that is the place to do it. Whereas ready for the elevator we observed yet one more whimsical classic element, an outdated unique mail slot for letters. Completely lovable. 

Whereas the resort prides itself on preserving these kind of distinctive architectural particulars, one factor has been altering right here: the rooms. 

Visitor Rooms & Suites at Lodge Du Pont  

The rooms and suites are underneath renovation and might be accomplished in late 2025. We stayed in a newly refreshed King Suite, and from the second we walked in, it felt like a retreat. It had a recent impartial palette, with an up to date fashion and trendy facilities.

Assume plush bedding, luxurious loos, and a way of tranquility that makes it simple to overlook the world exterior. Our mattress was extremely snug and every morning I wakened significantly rejuvenated. In actual fact, among the finest issues right here that’s arduous to search out in a metropolis resort: quiet.

Whereas we cherished how ethereal and spacious our room was, all of the closet house had me gushing. In the event you journey, you understand it’s a rarity today. The in-room protected made it simple to stow valuables whereas touring mild.

Rooms right here even have spacious marble loos with both separate spa-like waterfall showers or deep-soaking tubs. The additional deep soaking tub in our room was like a present. After an extended day, it felt like having the spa come to me. The refined terry robes hanging close by have been a lot appreciated afterward, and the complimentary slippers have been a beautiful cozy contact too.

To not sound cliché, however it actually is the little issues!

For me, espresso and water are a should in a resort room and the Lodge Du Pont had us arrange with each. We cherished the in-room espresso espresso machine with Lavazza pods for a morning pick-me-up and the complimentary bottled water was a easy comfort that’s actually appreciated. In the event you want further water, your room additionally comes with a free, take-home refillable chrome steel water bottle. Conveniently, proper exterior within the hallways are filtered water dispensers so that you’ll by no means go thirsty.

The sweetest welcome? A tin of the resort’s signature chocolate-dipped macaroons ready in our room. For anybody with a candy tooth, this little indulgence goes a good distance. And if cravings hit later, 24-hour room service has you coated.

Different facilities within the room included a flat-screen tv, free WIFI and nightly turndown service. The in-room fridge is at all times a perk, particularly should you have a tendency to search out your self with leftovers after dinner like we do.

If you wish to get a exercise in, the fitness center right here is superb. As a visitor you could have limitless entry to their state-of-the-art 24-hour health heart on the 2nd flooring of the resort. Full with Peloton bikes, ellipticals, treadmills, quite a lot of energy coaching machines, medication balls, and free weights – there’s no exercise you possibly can’t do right here.

The resort frequently hosts particular occasions together with elegant afternoon teas, vacation brunches, and themed celebrations tied to each popular culture and native happenings. Upcoming occasions embrace Mom’s Day brunch on Might 11, 2025 of their well-known Gold Ballroom. Examine their occasions web page for the most recent choices throughout your keep.

For some indulgent however extra Zen-like self-care, guide a spa remedy or glow-up on the onsite Currie Spa & Salon as an alternative.

Our favourite factor to do right here although, is eat.

The place To Eat & Drink At Lodge Du Pont

Downtown Wilmington, DE has a vibrant culinary scene alongside Market Road, however what makes Lodge Du Pont particular is that distinctive eating exists proper on the property. Foodies will love that you simply don’t even have to depart the Lodge Du Pont’s premises for excellent eating and expertly crafted cocktails. Non-hotel visitors are welcome too, making these venues native favorites.

Le Cavalier on the Inexperienced Room, the resort’s signature brasserie, looks like a European trip minus the jet lag. The meals are unhurried, indulgent, and altogether satisfying, with a wine checklist that may tempt even probably the most modest drinker into making an attempt only one extra glass. It’s additionally one of many area’s most well-known eating rooms. For craft cocktails and small bites at night time, The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge adjoining to the foyer must be on each cocktail fanatic’s must-visit checklist.

Additionally onsite is DE.CO, a contemporary meals corridor idea that presently options quite a lot of 5 meals distributors the place you possibly can pattern and savor totally different kinds of delicacies.

Le Cavalier on the Inexperienced Room

Le Cavalier, fondly generally known as “Le Cav,” is the crown jewel of the Lodge Du Pont, mixing historical past, class, and a recent, trendy vibe. Previously the enduring Inexperienced Room, this historic eating house—with its breathtaking ornate ceilings, wealthy wooden paneling, and spectacular globe chandeliers—underwent a considerate renovation in 2020. The end result? An ideal steadiness of old-world allure and modern sophistication, the place hovering arched home windows flood the house with mild, plush gold velvet banquettes invite lingering conversations, and a modern bar makes it one of the vital hanging and iconic eating spots in Wilmington.

The identify “Le Cavalier,” that means “The Horseman” in French, pays tribute to the Brandywine River Valley’s equestrian legacy—a nod seen within the restaurant’s fastidiously chosen art work, together with a hanging framed equestrian portray that greets visitors as they enter.

Underneath the culinary management of Chef Companion Tyler Akin, it delivers a contemporary French brasserie menu impressed by the flavors of Provence, North Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Whether or not you cease by for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, you’ll uncover dishes which can be fantastically offered and brimming with daring, recent flavors.

Le Cav strikes the right steadiness between informal and complex, making it splendid for an important day or a relaxed night time out. You too can begin your day right here with breakfast or brunch—we opted for the latter and cherished each chunk.

Brunch at Le Cav

We began brunch with the Parfait—a visible masterpiece served in a chic silver coupe glass. Made with labneh, a thick and wealthy Levant-style yogurt with a contact of salt, it’s artfully topped with plump recent raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, then topped with candied almond dukkah. The toasted sesame and heat spices like coriander create a nutty distinction towards the cool yogurt and calmly candy berries—a refreshing begin that’s each indulgent and lightweight.

In the event you’re feeling meaty, the generously sized Le Cheeseburger is a cult traditional—and for good purpose. Two juicy patties made with a major mix are topped with bacon, schmaltz aioli, and gherkin pickles on a buttery toasted brioche bun, served with both golden shoestring fries tucked right into a metallic cup or a recent inexperienced salad. The burger virtually calls for to be photographed earlier than you sink your tooth into what could be the final word burger expertise.

The Lobster Roll is almost certainly set to develop into their subsequent buyer favourite. A pillowy toasted buttered roll cradles beneficiant chunks of tender lobster meat dusted with recent herbs. Every chunk delivers pure, buttery decadence complemented by a brilliant facet salad and refreshing lemon wedge. We have been fortunate sufficient to reach simply in time for his or her lobster supply, and the kitchen was sort sufficient to arrange one on the fly. In the event you want, a chilly Lobster Roll preparation with Duke’s Mayo and herbs can be out there.

Past the common menu choices, Le Cavalier hosts particular culinary occasions that showcase Delaware’s meals scene. Chef Akin’s Delaware All-Star Chef Collection debuts April twenty first with James Beard nominee Chef Matt Kern (One Coastal, Fenwick Island). This inaugural dinner incorporates a six-course menu mixing coastal and French cuisines with Mid-Atlantic seafood focus. It’s the primary of a number of chef collaborations deliberate for spring 2025, with extra occasions coming quickly. Tickets are on sale now. 

The Lodge Du Pont presents complimentary espresso within the foyer every morning. However even should you’re not too hungry, do your self a favor: order a fresh-brewed cappuccino and Le Cav’s Pastry Basket. It’s heavenly and comes with a house-baked flaky heat croissant, banana-chocolate bread, Danish, creamy butter, and house-made jam.

Savoring these treats whereas surrounded by the restaurant’s beautiful architectural particulars creates a morning ritual we might simply get used to. It’s as should you landed in Paris, with out leaving the property.

The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge on the Lodge Du Pont 

For an after dinner cocktail, we popped into The Inexperienced Room Bar & Lounge at Lodge Du Pont. It’s situated within the resort foyer throughout from the piano, earlier than the doorway to Le Cav (no outside entrance). All are welcome right here too, not simply resort visitors.

We anticipated to seize a fast drink. However the bar’s stylish, cozy atmosphere with low leather-based sofas, layers of velvet pillows, cozy throws and temper lighting enticed us to remain longer.

The bar options premium spirits, wines, beer, and appetizers, however cocktails developed by head bartender Alex Taylor are the true spotlight. Crafted with house-made syrups, natural infusions, and distinctive flavors, his creations showcase the worldwide experience he’s acquired via his travels—evident in each the menu and each meticulously ready drink.

A must-try cocktail at The Inexperienced Room & Lounge is the “Kingston City,” an amber spirit-forward libation. It’s dramatically ready by torching fragrant woods and spices, capturing the smoke underneath a wood dome earlier than releasing a billowing cloud of perfume when served.

Alex explains, it pays homage to Bob Marley, who reportedly labored on the Lodge du Pont throughout his time in Wilmington throughout the mid-Nineteen Sixties.

In accordance with Taylor,

“It’s a Manhattan-riff with layers of flavored complexity as an homage to the optimistic vibrations shared by Marley.” 

The cocktail options Appleton Property 8-year aged Jamaican rum, an amaro and candy vermouth mix, apricot liqueur, and cardamom bitters, completed with a wooden and spice smoke that “provides extra layers of taste.“

“Bob Marley was actually a pillar of energy and backbone; ‘Kingston City’ seeks to recreate these attributes,” Taylor added.

Journey Calmly, made with Campari, Home Vermouth, and Amaro blended and shaken with hopped grapefruit bitters and topped with ginger beer was one other favourite. A chunk of the candied ginger garnish earlier than every sip revealed a brand new profile of flavors.

The bar additionally has a menu for small bites. All of the menus right here change seasonally. The bar is open to the general public so even should you’re not staying on the resort, make some extent go to. Open Monday via Thursday from 5 PM to 11 PM and Friday and Saturday till midnight.

I do know “hidden gem” will get thrown round lots, however this place actually is one. Go test it out whereas Alex is operating the present!

DE.CO Meals Corridor: Culinary Comfort Steps from Your Room

Related to Lodge Du Pont with each road and resort entrances

Once you’re unsure what you’re within the temper to eat, DE.CO is the right resolution in downtown Wilmington. This contemporary meals corridor, conveniently situated in the identical constructing as Lodge Du Pont, presents a culinary tour with 5 meals stalls underneath one roof plus a full-scale restaurant and bar—all accessible via both the Market Road entrance or instantly from the resort itself. And, there’s extra on the best way!

The Bardea Group (sure, the identical acclaimed group behind Bardea Meals & Drink) has established a major presence right here with Casa Nonna, their latest full-scale Italian restaurant, alongside Pizzeria Bardea and Bean by Bardea, their gourmand espresso counter. For these craving Mexican flavors, Taqueria El Chingon serves up genuine tacos, whereas Al Chu’s Sushi, a long-standing native favourite, presents fabulously recent sashimi and rolls.

Bean By Bardea

Our first cease was Bean By Bardea. It’s DE.CO’s latest espresso bar serving wealthy and clean freshly brewed Illy Espresso, espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes. You too can have your espresso made with artistic house-made infused syrups. In the event you love caramel, attempt their signature Koji Caramel Cappuccino or latte, which delivers the normal candy nuttiness of caramel however with an surprising umami punch that makes it uniquely scrumptious.

Whereas the espresso alone is well worth the go to, don’t miss the unbelievable freshly baked treats crafted by Bardea’s gifted Head Pastry Chef Amanda Nichols. The Almond Croissants listed here are completely transcendent—crisp, delicate, and buttery, dusted with powdered sugar and slivered almonds for crunch. They’re all the pieces you’re keen on a couple of traditional buttery croissant made even higher with the fragile richness of almond flavors and simply the correct quantity of custardy almond cream on the within.

We additionally couldn’t resist the mini Strawberry Cheesecake, with its wealthy, creamy filling and buttery graham cracker base that had only a trace of salt to steadiness the sweetness. The service at Bean by Bardea is heat and pleasant, which one way or the other makes all the pieces style a bit sweeter. Cait, particularly, deserves particular recognition for crafting a number of the finest cappuccinos we’ve ever had!

With its pleasant vibes, loads of tables, considerable pure mild, and open house, DE.CO is a superb place to take a break, take pleasure in quite a lot of meals, and even get some work finished when you eat.

Hours differ by vendor, so examine earlier than you go, however having this culinary playground linked to your resort is likely one of the finest perks of staying at Lodge Du Pont!

Casa Nonna

Situated in DE.CO, linked to Lodge Du Pont

One of many latest additions to DE.CO meals corridor, Casa Nonna is a casually elegant full-service bar and restaurant honoring the Italian household recipes of James Beard-nominated Chef Antimo DiMeo‘s grandmothers. Whereas that includes conventional Italian consolation meals like pizzas and pastas, the menu cleverly reimagines traditional dishes with a up to date twist. The comforting, nostalgic Italian flavors create a joyful eating expertise the place each chunk deserves to be savored.

The house right here is fashionable but snug, with attractive geometric tile flooring, wood-paneled partitions, and classy globe pendant lamps creating simply the best vibe. The black and white diamond sample flooring contrasted with hanging wall tiles provides a contemporary contact to the normal Italian really feel. There’s additionally an open kitchen, so you possibly can watch the group at work.

For appetizers, we began off sturdy with the Porchetta Rotolini. Sesame crusted rolls baked and twisted with tender layers of porchetta, broccoli rabe and sharp provolone, wrapped and plated with an completely addicting lengthy sizzling cream. The sauce was daring, a bit spicy, and it must be on all the pieces. Each chunk was crunchy, creamy, and downright unforgettable.

The crispy Baked Clams full of ‘nduja and leek soubise have been a singular tackle this seaside traditional. The ‘nduja, a spicy and spreadable Calabrian salami unfold added a kick whereas the leek soubise, a silky sauce historically made with onions, cream and butter added an surprising mellow sweetness. Decadently briny, and brightened with a squeeze of lemon, should you love seafood this one is value a attempt.

Ever suppose a Mozzarella Stick could possibly be subtle? Order Casa Nonna’s. It’s a thick, gooey block of fried cheese elegantly topped with an eggplant parm-flavored mousse plated over a yellow tomato sauce for dipping. Like two dishes in a single and bursting with taste, this one is enjoyable to eat, and so scrumptious. And the cheese pull: epic.

In the event you love handmade pasta and need comforting Italian classics, order from the “Nonna’s Home” pasta part of the menu. For pasta with a contemporary kick, “Our Home” choices just like the Pappardelle with truffle fontina cream, umami wealthy mushroom xo sauce, and tender quick rib is the best way to go.

We needed to attempt Casa Nonna’s Mortadella Pizza. The dough—first fried then baked—creates an expertly charred and ethereal crust layered with creamy stracciatella, brilliant yellow tomatoes, and a sprinkle of crumbled pistachios. It was crispy, nutty, and satisfying. That is the one pizza on the menu that’s fried, however it’s so mild you’d by no means know.

The Pork Osso Buco was superb. Piccata-style with garlic, capers, and a brilliant, zesty end, the pork was fall-apart tender and bursting with taste. So, so good.

For dessert we couldn’t go away and not using a style of each Tiramisu and Panna Cotta. The tiramisu was traditional in all one of the best methods—creamy, mild, and soaked in simply the correct quantity of espresso, with delicate gold leaf including a contact of class. With notes of citrus and enrobed in a hoop of white chocolate, the panna cotta topped with darkish and candy Italian cherries was an ideal ending to our meal.

Casa Nonna is open 6 days per week for lunch (11-2:30), joyful hour (4-7pm) and dinner (5-9), making it tremendous handy for resort visitors in search of scrumptious Italian delicacies with out even leaving the constructing.

Bardea Meals & Drink

Only a five-minute stroll down Market Road from Lodge Du Pont, Bardea Meals & Drink is placing Wilmington’s culinary eating scene on the map. Since opening in 2018, Chef DiMeo and co-owner Scott Stein’s flagship restaurant has earned nationwide recognition, a number of James Beard nominations, and most just lately, a spot on USA TODAY’s 2025 Eating places of the Yr checklist.

Named after the Italian goddess of foods and drinks, Bardea blends Italian traditions with world influences in probably the most scrumptious methods possible. Their shareable plates idea encourages exploration—precisely as Stein defined to us: “The menu is designed how we like to eat once we exit.” This philosophy interprets to quite a lot of snacks and smaller, satisfying parts that enable visitors to take pleasure in a number of flavors and preparations throughout the meal.

The Rooster Parm Bao Buns alone are well worth the go to—an Italian-Asian fusion masterpiece that one way or the other works even higher than you’d think about. Their house-made pasta dishes, just like the decadent Linguine with scallop XO sauce and caviar, showcase why Bardea constantly will get rave opinions.

Regardless of the accolades, there’s zero pretension right here. The vibe is heat and alluring, with educated servers who expertly information you thru the menu’s artistic choices. From inventive seafood shows to decadent desserts (don’t miss the Olive Oil Cake), each dish tells a narrative of culinary craftsmanship.

Reservations are important—this downtown hotspot fills shortly with locals and guests alike.

📍Bardea Meals & Drink is situated at 620 N Market St, Wilmington, DE 19801

⭐We deliberate to solely point out Bardea right here, however the expertise actually deserved its personal function. See our full Bardea overview!

Issues To Do Round Lodge Du Pont

Whereas the Lodge Du Pont presents a lot to take pleasure in on-site, its central downtown location makes it handy for exploring Wilmington’s cultural points of interest and historic websites.

Past the resort, Wilmington presents loads of issues to do, from the Brandywine Valley’s beautiful gardens and museums to the colourful Riverfront space. Whether or not you’re exploring native artwork galleries, or taking a scenic stroll, the Lodge Du Pont serves as the best house base on your adventures.

Inside strolling distance from the Lodge Du Pont on the five hundred block of Market Road, take a look at the Delaware Historic Society’s Historical past Middle advanced that features The Delaware Historical past Museum, Mitchell Middle for African American Historical past, and Outdated City Corridor courting again to 1798.

For stay leisure, catch a present at The Playhouse on Rodney Sq. or the World Cafe Stay on the Queen. The Playhouse is within the resort and The Queen is just a few blocks from the resort.

If in case you have extra time, discover Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley’s different treasures, just like the Delaware Artwork Museum, the Brandywine Zoo, Winterthur Museum and Gardens, Hagley and close by Longwood Gardens. 

Longwood Gardens: A Magical Daytrip From Lodge Du Pont 

About half-hour from Lodge Du Pont

For an unforgettable day journey from Lodge Du Pont, put Longwood Gardens on the prime of your checklist. 

This horticultural masterpiece spans over 1,000 acres and presents a number of the most spectacular backyard shows you’ll discover anyplace on this planet.

Based by Pierre S. du Pont within the early twentieth century, Longwood has developed right into a botanical sanctuary that dazzles guests year-round. 

Contained in the conservatories, you possibly can simply spend a whole day transferring between distinct environments. The preserved Cascade Backyard options 16 waterfalls and meandering paths via lush rainforest plantings—a tropical retreat that feels worlds away from actuality. The Indoor Kids’s Backyard delights guests of all ages with whimsical bronze statues and artistic water options that make it great for households.

Each flip reveals one other Instagram-worthy scene that may have your followers asking, “The place IS this place!?”

When starvation strikes, don’t miss the chance to dine at 1906, Longwood’s signature restaurant. This newly reimagined eating expertise exceeded each expectation throughout our go to—from the elegant house with its signature arched home windows to the impeccable service and clever plating. Reserve forward for both lunch or dinner; that is memorable, advantageous eating that actually enhances the botanical wonders. 

 💡 Professional tip: E-book your tickets and restaurant reservations nicely prematurely—this world-class vacation spot is well-liked for good purpose, and also you don’t wish to miss out on the complete magic of Longwood Gardens.

 ➡ See our full Longwood Gardens itinerary

Attending to The Lodge Du Pont

The Lodge Du Pont is simply 25 minutes from Philadelphia Worldwide Airport, an hour from Baltimore, and two hours from New York or Washington, D.C. 

For added comfort, the resort presents complimentary automobile service on availability. They’ll take you wherever you wish to go inside a 5 miles radius, together with the Wilmington Amtrak station.

Why Lodge Du Pont Belongs on Your Should-Go to Checklist

The Lodge Du Pont blends historic grandeur with trendy consolation, creating an expertise that feels each indulgent and alluring. From the nice and cozy hospitality to the beautiful structure and top-tier eating, each element provides to the resort’s timeless attraction.

Whether or not you’re planning a romantic escape, a food-filled weekend, or only a much-needed reset, this Wilmington landmark delivers class, allure, and considerate facilities in a method few locations can.

And for these of us close by, one of the best half? No lengthy flights, no difficult journey—only a world-class getaway in our personal yard.

In the event you’re craving a keep that mixes historical past, consolation, and unforgettable meals, look no additional than Lodge Du Pont. We will’t wait to return!

⭐ Able to expertise this historic property your self? E-book your keep in the present day and uncover what makes Lodge Du Pont actually iconic!