Discover the Rich History of First State National Historical Park
Explore the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of First State National Historical Park, where Delaware's history comes alive in a breathtaking natural setting.
First State National Historical Park is a captivating blend of history and nature, inviting visitors to explore Delaware's past through its historical landmarks and scenic trails. Perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike, this park offers a unique experience that showcases the state’s role in American history.
A brief summary to First State National Historical Park
- 211 Delaware St, New Castle, Delaware, 19720, US
- +1302-544-6363
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely experience.
- Check the park's schedule for guided tours, as these can provide deeper insights into the historical sites.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the trails and various landmarks on foot.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and historical architecture throughout the park.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage and a more picturesque outdoor experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Blackbird State Forest, head northwest on Blackbird Landing Road toward Delaware Route 1 (DE-1). Turn right onto DE-1 and follow it for approximately 13 miles. Take exit 156 for DE-273 E toward New Castle. Continue on DE-273 E for about 2 miles, then turn left onto Delaware Street. The First State National Historical Park will be on your left at 211 Delaware St, New Castle, DE 19720. There is no parking fee, but be aware that the park may have special events that could affect parking availability.
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Public Transportation
From Blackbird State Forest, the nearest public transportation option is to take a taxi or rideshare service to the nearest bus station in Smyrna. From there, take the DART First State Bus Route 301 toward Wilmington. Get off at the New Castle stop, which is close to First State National Historical Park. It's advisable to check the DART First State schedule ahead of time for the latest timings and fare information, as fares may vary based on the route and time of day.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, you can bike from Blackbird State Forest to First State National Historical Park. Take Blackbird Landing Road north until you reach DE-1. Carefully ride along the shoulder of DE-1 for about 13 miles. Be cautious of traffic and consider wearing a helmet. Once you reach the exit for DE-273, follow the previous car route to Delaware Street. Make sure to bring your own bike lock, as bike parking is available at the park.
Discover more about First State National Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Henry N. Burgie Memorial Fountain
0.0 km
Explore the beauty of the Henry N. Burgie Memorial Fountain, a historic landmark in New Castle, Delaware, offering tranquility and a glimpse into the past.
New Castle Historical Society
0.1 km
Uncover the captivating history of New Castle at the New Castle Historical Society, a museum and visitor center that brings the past to life in Delaware.
Grave of US Constitution, Declaration of Independence signer George Read
0.1 km
Visit the historic grave of George Read in New Castle, Delaware, and reflect on the legacy of a Founding Father who shaped American democracy.
Old Library Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Old Library Museum in New Castle, Delaware, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and engaging community programs.
New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad
0.3 km
Explore the historical significance of the New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad, a landmark embodying early American railroading in Delaware.
New Castle Crier
0.3 km
Discover the historical treasures of New Castle Crier, a captivating museum that brings the rich heritage of Delaware to life.
New Castle Italian Immigrant Memorial
0.8 km
Explore the New Castle Italian Immigrant Memorial, a touching historical landmark celebrating the legacy of Italian immigrants in the heart of Delaware.
Historic Penn Farm
2.6 km
Discover Historic Penn Farm, a serene event venue in New Castle, DE, showcasing the charm of agriculture and history in a picturesque setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
New Castle Court House Museum
0.0 km
Discover Delaware's historical essence at the New Castle Court House Museum, a landmark showcasing the state's rich legal heritage and captivating stories.
New Castle Visitor Center at The Arsenal
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of New Castle at The Arsenal Visitor Center, your starting point for local exploration.
Dutch House Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Dutch House Museum in New Castle, DE, where history comes alive through captivating exhibits and engaging stories of the past.
Amstel House Museum
0.1 km
Explore the captivating history of Delaware at the Amstel House Museum, a charming historical attraction in New Castle.
Packet Alley
0.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Packet Alley in New Castle, Delaware, where rich maritime history meets scenic beauty.
Read House & Gardens
0.2 km
Explore the enchanting Read House & Gardens, a historic treasure in New Castle, Delaware, blending nature's beauty with rich 18th-century history.
New Castle Battery Park
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of New Castle Battery Park, a captivating destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure in Delaware.
Deemers Beach
1.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Deemers Beach in Delaware, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Welcome to Delaware Sign
4.4 km
Experience the welcoming spirit of Delaware at the iconic Welcome to Delaware Sign, a perfect photo spot showcasing local pride and heritage.
Delaware Memorial Bridge
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking views and historical significance of the Delaware Memorial Bridge, a vital connection between New Jersey and Delaware.
Finns Point Lighthouse
5.4 km
Explore the charm of Finns Point Lighthouse in Pennsville, NJ, where history meets stunning river views along the Bayshore Heritage Scenic Byway.
Jack A. Markell Trail
6.2 km
Discover the beautiful Jack A. Markell Trail in Delaware, where outdoor adventure meets stunning natural landscapes along a scenic pathway.
Fort Mott State Park
6.4 km
Explore Fort Mott State Park: A historical gem in New Jersey where nature meets the remnants of Civil War history.
DuPont Environmental Education Center of Delaware Nature Society
7.0 km
Discover nature's wonders at the DuPont Environmental Education Center, an educational haven on the Christina River in Wilmington, Delaware.
Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge
7.0 km
Explore the serene landscapes and diverse wildlife at Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge, a captivating destination in Wilmington, Delaware.
Essential places to dine
Jessop's Tavern
0.1 km
Discover traditional American dining at Jessop's Tavern in New Castle – where history meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Bahama Breeze
7.6 km
Discover Bahama Breeze in Newark: A Caribbean dining experience filled with vibrant flavors and tropical drinks perfect for every occasion.
Timothy's Riverfront Grill
7.7 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Timothy's Riverfront Grill—where great food meets breathtaking river views in Wilmington.
Texas Roadhouse
7.7 km
Experience the sizzle at Texas Roadhouse – where savory steaks meet warm hospitality in Bear, Delaware.
The Cheesecake Factory
7.8 km
Experience diverse American cuisine and irresistible cheesecakes at The Cheesecake Factory in Newark's Christiana Mall.
River Rock Kitchen
7.9 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at River Rock Kitchen in Wilmington's beautiful Riverfront area, perfect for family meals and special gatherings.
Brio Italian Grille
8.0 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Italy at Brio Italian Grille in Newark—where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Keem's Cuisine
8.1 km
Experience authentic cuisine in Wilmington at Keem's Cuisine - where fresh ingredients meet traditional flavors.
Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront
8.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront in Wilmington—where fresh flavors meet scenic river views.
Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
8.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine paired with handcrafted beers at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Wilmington's Riverfront.
Del Pez Riverfront
8.5 km
Discover Del Pez Riverfront: A vibrant gastropub blending Latin American flavors with breathtaking river views in Wilmington.
Ciro Food And Drink
8.6 km
Discover unique chef creations at Ciro Food And Drink, where innovative dishes meet stunning riverfront views in Wilmington.
The Border Cafe
8.6 km
Experience the best of Mexican and Cajun cuisine at The Border Cafe in Newark – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Docklands Riverfront
8.6 km
Experience vibrant dining, entertainment, and scenic views at Docklands Riverfront in Wilmington - perfect for every tourist's itinerary.
Banks' Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar
8.6 km
Experience fresh seafood and stunning river views at Banks' Seafood Kitchen in Wilmington - A culinary gem for seafood lovers.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
D'Afrique
2.8 km
Discover unique fashion accessories at D'Afrique in New Castle, Delaware, where culture meets style in a vibrant shopping experience.
Treasure Hunt Records and Collectibles
3.2 km
Explore a vintage wonderland of collectibles, from vinyl records to rare comic books, at Treasure Hunt Records and Collectibles in Delaware.
The Farm
4.6 km
Discover a curated selection of premium cannabis products in a welcoming atmosphere at The Farm, New Castle's top cannabis destination.
AFRIKAN ATTIRE
6.6 km
Explore the essence of African culture at Afrikan Attire, your go-to destination for authentic clothing, beauty products, and tailored services.
Willow Tree
7.2 km
Discover timeless treasures at Willow Tree Antiques, Wilmington's charming store for vintage finds and unique collectibles.
Marshalls & HomeGoods
7.3 km
Explore Marshalls & HomeGoods in Newark, Delaware for unbeatable deals on clothing, home goods, and unique treasures, perfect for every shopper.
Trader Joe's
7.4 km
Experience a treasure trove of organic groceries and unique foods at Trader Joe's in Newark, perfect for health-conscious shoppers and culinary explorers.
The Container Store
7.5 km
Discover unparalleled organization solutions at The Container Store in Newark, Delaware, where creativity meets functionality for your home.
Fortunoff Backyard Store
7.6 km
Explore Fortunoff Backyard Store in Newark, Delaware for high-quality outdoor furniture and decor to enhance your outdoor living experience.
Christiana Fashion Center
7.6 km
Explore Christiana Fashion Center, Delaware's premier shopping destination, featuring a variety of stores, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.
Soleply
7.7 km
Discover Soleply, the premier shoe store in Christiana Mall, Newark, offering a stylish selection for every occasion and taste.
Bullseye Sneaker Boutique
7.8 km
Explore the trendiest sneakers and stylish apparel at Bullseye Sneaker Boutique, a fashion haven in Newark, Delaware, perfect for every sneakerhead.
Christiana Mall
7.8 km
Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at Christiana Mall, Newark's vibrant retail hub featuring top brands, delicious dining, and family-friendly entertainment.
Barnes & Noble
7.8 km
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South Moon Under
7.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hak's Bar
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hak's Bar, Wilmington's ultimate adult entertainment and sports bar, where excitement meets relaxation.
Rack’s Smoked Bbq
7.8 km
Experience mouthwatering smoked meats and a vibrant atmosphere at Rack’s Smoked BBQ in New Castle, Delaware, a must-visit for BBQ lovers.
Suite 4 Eleven
8.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Wilmington at Suite 4 Eleven, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a lively atmosphere.
DARNELL'S CAS BAR
8.2 km
Experience the charm of Darnell's Cas Bar in Wilmington, DE, offering a cozy atmosphere, delicious drinks, and a taste of local culture.
Buffalo Wild Wings
8.6 km
Discover Buffalo Wild Wings in Newark, DE – where delicious chicken wings meet thrilling sports excitement for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Knight's Bar
9.1 km
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Simmer Down
9.2 km
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Sabatina’s Sandwiches
9.3 km
Savor the best sandwiches in Delaware City at Sabatina's, where freshness meets flavor in every bite.
Makers Alley
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Makers Alley, a premier beer garden in Wilmington, DE, for craft beers, great food, and lively events.
The Nomad Bar
9.6 km
Experience Wilmington's nightlife at The Nomad Bar, where vibrant atmosphere meets exceptional drinks and friendly service.
Sunday's Cafe 64
9.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of Sunday's Cafe 64 in Delaware City, where every dish is made with love and fresh ingredients.
Comegy's Pub
9.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Comegy's Pub in Wilmington, DE, where friendly faces and fun nights await every visitor.
La Matesina Pizza Pasta Delaware City
10.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Matesina Pizza Pasta in Delaware City, where delicious pizza and pasta await every visitor.
Torbert Street Social
10.0 km
Discover Wilmington's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet a vibrant social atmosphere in the heart of Delaware.
The Carriage House Bar + Lounge
10.1 km
Experience the charm of The Carriage House Bar + Lounge in Wilmington, DE - a perfect blend of ambiance, exquisite drinks, and delightful company.
