Fort Delaware State Park: A Civil War Fortress

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Explore a historic Civil War fortress and natural bird sanctuary on Pea Patch Island, accessible by ferry from Delaware City.

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Fort Delaware State Park

Journey back in time at Fort Delaware State Park, a historic Civil War-era fortress on Pea Patch Island. Accessible by ferry, explore the well-preserved fort, witness historical reenactments, and discover the island's natural beauty as a significant bird habitat.

A brief summary to Fort Delaware State Park

45 Clinton St, Delaware City, Delaware, 19706, US
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Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Purchase ferry tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot.
Wear closed-toe shoes as the ground on Pea Patch Island can be uneven.
Bring sunscreen and bug spray for protection against the elements.
Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your visit, as departure times vary.
Consider visiting during one of the themed free entry days for specific community groups.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Wilmington, take DART Route 9 towards Delaware City. This bus route will drop you off near the Delaware City waterfront. From there, it's a short walk to the ferry terminal at 45 Clinton Street. Purchase your ferry ticket to Fort Delaware and enjoy the ride to Pea Patch Island. Ferry tickets cost $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 2-12), and $14 for seniors (62+) and military personnel.
Driving

From I-95, take Exit 4A for DE-72 East towards Delaware City. Follow DE-72 E to DE-9 N in Delaware City. Turn left onto Clinton Street. The ferry terminal is located at 45 Clinton Street. Parking is available in Delaware City, subject to local fees. After parking, purchase your ferry ticket to Fort Delaware. Ferry tickets cost $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 2-12), and $14 for seniors (62+) and military personnel.
Walking

From anywhere in Delaware City's historic district, head towards the waterfront and Clinton Street. Follow Clinton Street to 45 Clinton Street, where you'll find the Fort Delaware ferry ticket office and dock. Purchase your ferry ticket to Fort Delaware. Ferry tickets cost $15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 2-12), and $14 for seniors (62+) and military personnel.

Discover more about Fort Delaware State Park

Fort Delaware State Park, situated on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River, offers a unique blend of history and nature. The island emerged as a mud bank in the 18th century and was fortified in 1815 to protect the harbors of Wilmington and Philadelphia. The current brick and concrete fort was completed by 1860. During the Civil War, Fort Delaware served as a Union prison for Confederate soldiers, political prisoners, and Federal convicts, with as many as 12,595 prisoners housed at one time. Over 2,400 died while imprisoned. Today, visitors can witness reenactments that bring the summer of 1864 to life, with costumed interpreters demonstrating blacksmithing and laundry tasks. The firing of the 8-inch Columbiad cannon is a daily highlight. Beyond its historical significance, Pea Patch Island is a natural habitat and home to one of the largest Atlantic Coast nesting sites for herons, egrets, and ibises north of Florida. An estimated 5,000 – 12,000 breeding pairs call this heronry home annually. Visitors can observe the wildlife from the Prison Camp Trail's heronry observation platform. The park is open seasonally, offering paranormal tours in the fall and living history programs throughout the year.