Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours — Wilmington, Delaware

Discover the Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours in Delaware

Located in Wilmington, Delaware, the Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore a restored 18th-century gristmill and a historic working farm. This guided heritage and agricultural tour highlights traditional grain milling, early industrial water power, and farming practices that shaped Delaware’s rural economy.

Visitors walk through the historic mill building, see milling machinery driven by water power, and explore Philips Farm to learn how crops and livestock supported the region’s agricultural community.

Why it’s special: Greenbank Mills preserves one of Delaware’s few remaining historic water-powered gristmills while connecting visitors to centuries-old farming traditions.

History & Story of Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm

Greenbank Mills dates back to the late 1700s, when the water-powered gristmill was constructed to grind grain for local farmers. Powered by the Red Clay Creek, the mill served the surrounding agricultural community for generations.

The adjacent Philips Farm reflects the working landscape that supported the mill. Today, both sites are preserved and interpreted as part of Delaware’s agricultural and early industrial heritage.

What You’ll See & Do on the Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours

• Explore the historic water-powered gristmill building
• Learn how grain was ground into flour using traditional millstones
• View waterwheel and mechanical milling systems
• Walk through the historic barns and farm structures
• Discover how crops and livestock supported the local economy
• Learn about Delaware’s early agricultural and industrial development

Hands-On Elements: Demonstrations of milling equipment may be offered during scheduled tours.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted throughout the outdoor areas and most interior spaces.

Souvenirs & Extras: Educational materials and small souvenirs available during special events.

Pricing of the Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours

Adult price: $8 per adult

Discounted admission may be available for students and children.

Visiting information for Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours

Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Outdoor farm areas accessible; historic mill building may have limited accessibility

Working Hours: Saturday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Monday–Friday Closed (regular tour schedule)

Advance booking recommended for group tours.

Nearby attractions to Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours

• Hagley Museum and Library
• Brandywine Creek State Park
• Nemours Estate

FAQs About Visiting the Greenbank Mills & Philips Farm Tours

Is the gristmill still operational?
The mill has been restored and may operate during demonstrations and special events.

What was the purpose of the mill historically?
The mill ground locally grown grain into flour for farmers in the surrounding area.

Can visitors explore the farm grounds?
Yes. Guided tours include both the mill site and the nearby Philips Farm.

Is this a good tour for families?
Yes. The tour is educational and suitable for visitors of all ages.

How far is the site from downtown Wilmington?
Greenbank Mills is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Wilmington.