Background

Rockwood Park & Museum: A Gothic Revival Gem

Discover history and natural beauty at Rockwood Park & Museum, a captivating 19th-century English country estate in Wilmington, Delaware.

4.6

Rockwood Park & Museum, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. This 72-acre estate features a Rural Gothic mansion, once the home of banker Joseph Shipley, along with picturesque gardens and walking trails, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life.

A brief summary to Rockwood Park & Museum

  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekends for guided tours of the mansion, which provide in-depth historical context.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's beautiful gardens, especially during spring and summer.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events and exhibitions to enhance your visit.
  • Dress comfortably for walking, as the park features several scenic trails and paths.
  • New Castle County residents receive half off admission to the museum with a valid ID.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Wilmington, take DART First State bus route 18 or 24 from the Wilmington Transit Center. Ride for approximately 25 minutes and get off at the stop near Washington Street Extension. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to Rockwood Park & Museum. A single fare for DART First State buses is $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    A taxi or ride-share service from downtown Wilmington to Rockwood Park & Museum takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15 to $25 for the ride.

  • Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 8 for DE-202 N toward Greenville. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for DE-202 N and merge onto DE-202 N. Continue on DE-202 N for about 1.5 miles. Turn left onto Washington Street Extension. After about 0.5 miles, you'll see Rockwood Park & Museum on your left. On-site parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Rockwood Park & Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Rockwood Park & Museum

Rockwood Park & Museum offers visitors a unique experience, transporting them back to the 19th century within a serene, picturesque setting. The centerpiece is the Rockwood Mansion, built between 1851 and 1854 by Joseph Shipley, a wealthy merchant banker. Shipley, inspired by English country estates, designed Rockwood in the Rural Gothic Revival style, a departure from the more ornate Gothic Revival architecture. The mansion's design reflects Shipley's love for horticulture, fine arts, and antiques. Inside, the museum showcases how the Bringhurst family, Shipley's descendants, lived during the turn of the 20th century. Visitors can explore rooms restored to their 1895 appearance, offering a glimpse into the Victorian era. Beyond the mansion, the estate encompasses 72 acres of parkland, including a six-acre historic garden. The gardens, designed in the style of an English park, feature a variety of trees and flowering shrubs arranged naturally. Walking trails wind through the park, providing scenic views and opportunities for recreation. Throughout the year, Rockwood hosts various events, including art exhibitions, historical reenactments, and seasonal festivals. These events offer a deeper understanding of Delaware's cultural heritage and provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the local community.

Popular Experiences near Rockwood Park & Museum

Popular Hotels near Rockwood Park & Museum

Select Currency