Wilmington
Hilton Wilmington/Christiana, situated halfway between Baltimore and Philadelphia, in September 2017 completed an $8 million renovation including the transformation of 9,000 square feet of meeting/banquet space, the addition of a new executive level called the Club on Four, and the addition of Market Kitchen & Bar, a new gastropub. The hotel also expanded its on-site garden and uses its seasonal herbs and vegetables in on-site menus.
The Delaware History Museum, which is available to host private events and meetings, reopened in September 2016 after a full renovation.
At press time, the 96-room Residence Inn Wilmington Downtown was scheduled to open in October 2017, with 1,590 square feet of meeting space.
The Queen Wilmington, a theater that can accommodate up to 1,100 people for unique events, was acquired in May 2017 by Live Nation and is currently open while event facilities are updated.
Kent County
Hampton Inn Dover completed a renovation earlier this year, including upgrades to the lobby and its 81 guest rooms and suites, as well as the addition of a new meeting space, hospitality suites and a larger fitness center.
The Frederica, Del.-based D.E. Turf Sports Complex opened in April 2017 and will serve as a year-round venue for sports tournaments. Facility features include 12 synthetic turf fields, seating for 750 attendees and a multipurpose room.
Southern Delaware
The Avenue Inn and Spa in Rehoboth Beach completed a renovation/expansion project in fall 2016 including the opening of the on-site Blue Hen restaurant, the expansion of lobby and spa areas, the addition of 28 guest rooms, and upgrades to the original 49 rooms to match the newly added rooms.