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Bellevue State Park: A Gilded Age Oasis

Explore a former DuPont estate with historic charm, outdoor activities, and beautiful Delaware scenery in suburban Wilmington.

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Nestled in suburban Wilmington, Bellevue State Park offers a glimpse into the past as a former DuPont estate. With historic structures, gardens, and recreational facilities, it's a retreat offering diverse activities from hiking and biking to concerts and historical tours.

A brief summary to Bellevue State Park

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the park's event calendar for concerts, tours, and seasonal activities.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the grounds.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic spots.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 9 (Marsh Road). If coming from the north, turn left onto Marsh Road, then left again onto Carr Road. From the south, turn left onto Carr Road directly from the exit ramp. The park entrance is 0.9 miles on the right. Parking is available within the park. Entrance fees are in effect from March 1 to November 30: $4 for Delaware residents and $8 for non-residents.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Transit Center, take DART First State bus route 33 towards New Castle. Get off at the stop near Carr Road, about 1.5 miles from the park. From there, walk along Carr Road to the park entrance (approximately 30 minutes) or use a local rideshare service. The bus fare is approximately $2.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of Marsh Road and Carr Road, you can walk to the park entrance at 800 Carr Rd. From the intersection, walk east on Carr Road for about 0.9 miles. Be aware of traffic and use sidewalks where available. No costs are associated with walking.

Unlock the Best of Bellevue State Park

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Discover more about Bellevue State Park

Bellevue State Park, a 331-acre oasis in Wilmington, Delaware, blends history, culture, and nature. Once the estate of William du Pont Jr., the park provides a snapshot of elite leisure from the Gilded Age. The centerpiece is Bellevue Hall, a mansion remodeled by du Pont to resemble Montpelier, James Madison's former residence. Originally built in 1855 as a Gothic Revival castle called Woolton Hall, it was transformed in the early 20th century. The park features other unique historic structures like the Mount Pleasant Schoolhouse and the Percheron Barn, offering glimpses into the estate's self-sustaining past. Today, Bellevue State Park offers diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on multi-use trails, test their endurance on the 1 1/8-mile fitness track, or try the 18-hole disc golf course. The park also has tennis courts, a catch-and-release fishing pond, and hosts summer concerts and special events. The park's meadows and woods provide habitat for wildlife, including monarch butterflies and honeybees. Bellevue State Park is a destination for recreation, historical exploration, and natural beauty.

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