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Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rockwood Park & Museum.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Rockwood Park & Museum: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Life
Step back in time at this enchanting English-style country estate, featuring a Gothic Revival mansion, historic gardens, and captivating museum.
Rockwood Park & Museum, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is a captivating step back in time. This 72-acre estate features a Rural Gothic mansion, once the home of banker Joseph Shipley and later his great-nephew Edward Bringhurst Jr. Explore the historic house museum, stroll through the gardens, and discover a blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Rockwood Park & Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Thursday
10 am-4 pm
Friday
10 am-4 pm
Saturday
10 am-4 pm
Sunday
12 pm-4 pm
Discover more about Rockwood Park & Museum
Rockwood Park & Museum offers a unique window into 19th-century life. Built between 1851 and 1854 by Joseph Shipley, a wealthy merchant banker, the estate was designed to reflect the beauty of an English country estate. The mansion itself is an excellent example of Rural Gothic Revival architecture, a style that favored simplicity and naturalness.
After Shipley's death, the estate passed to his great-nephew, Edward Bringhurst Jr., in 1891. The museum reflects the way the Bringhurst family lived during the turn of the 20th century. Visitors can explore the mansion's parlors, view family fashions, and admire the diverse art collections.
The grounds encompass 72 acres of serene parkland, including a six-acre historic garden designed in the Gardenesque style. Here, winding trails lead past exotic trees and flowering shrubs. The park also features a picnic grove, festival grounds, and an urban wildlife habitat. Rockwood offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including ghost tours, family programs, and the Delaware Shakespeare Festival.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From downtown Wilmington, take DART First State bus route 24 from the Wilmington Transit Center. Ride the bus to the stop at Washington Street Extension and Rockwood Park. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance at 4651 Washington Street Extension. A single fare is approximately $2.
Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from downtown Wilmington to Rockwood Park & Museum takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between $15 and $25 for the ride.
Driving
From I-95, take exit 7 for I-495 North towards New Castle. Continue on I-495 and take exit 1B for Route 202 North. Follow Route 202 to the intersection with Washington Street Extension. Turn left onto Washington Street Extension and continue for about 1 mile. Rockwood Park & Museum will be on your right. Parking is available on-site.
A brief summary to Rockwood Park & Museum
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