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Fort Christina Park: Birthplace of New Sweden

Explore the site of the first Swedish settlement in North America, where the Kalmar Nyckel landed in 1638, marking a new chapter in American history.

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Commemorating the first Swedish settlement in North America, Fort Christina Park in Wilmington, Delaware, marks the spot where the Kalmar Nyckel and Fogel Grip landed in 1638. Today, visitors can explore the park's monuments, learn about the New Sweden colony, and reflect on the site's significance in early American history.

A brief summary to Fort Christina Park

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day) for staffed tours and events.
  • Check out the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation across the street for more information and to obtain the National Park Passport Stamp.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Old Swedes Church and the Kalmar Nyckel Museum for a comprehensive look at the New Sweden colony.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Wilmington Transit Center, head east on W 8th St, turn left onto N Market St, and then turn right onto E 7th St. Continue walking for about 0.5 miles. Fort Christina Park will be on your right at 1110 E 7th St. This walk is about 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Transit Center, several DART First State bus routes connect to the vicinity of Fort Christina Park. Check the DART First State website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A one-way bus fare is $2.

  • Car

    From I-95, take exit 6 toward DE-7 N. Merge onto DE-7 N and continue for about 2 miles. Turn left onto E 7th St. Fort Christina Park will be on your right at 1110 E 7th St. Free parking is available across the road at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation.

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Discover more about Fort Christina Park

Fort Christina Park, a serene and historically significant site in Wilmington, Delaware, marks the spot where Swedish and Finnish colonists first arrived in North America, establishing the New Sweden colony in 1638. The park, located at the confluence of the Christina River and Brandywine River, offers a glimpse into the early colonial history of the Delaware Valley. The park's main feature is the Swedish Tercentenary Monument, a gift from the people of Sweden in 1938, commemorating the 300th anniversary of the landing. Crafted by Swedish sculptor Carl Milles, the monument depicts the Kalmar Nyckel, the ship that brought the first settlers, atop a granite column. The park also features the Rocks, the natural stone wharf where the settlers first disembarked. These rocks also served as a landing place for freedom seekers on the maritime Underground Railroad. Visitors to Fort Christina Park can explore the grounds, learn about the history of the New Sweden colony, and enjoy the scenic views of the Christina River. The park is part of the First State National Historical Park, linking it to other historical sites in the region. The Kalmar Nyckel Foundation, located across the road from the park, offers additional information and tours. The park is open seasonally, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with reduced fall hours. During this time, guides offer free interpretive tours.

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