First State National Historical Park, Delaware Piedmont Travel Guide

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Discover Delaware's pivotal role in American history at First State National Historical Park, with sites spanning colonial settlements to the U.S. Constitution's ratification.

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First State National Historical Park

Explore the pivotal role Delaware played in the nation's founding at First State National Historical Park. This park encompasses multiple sites that tell the story of early settlements, the road to independence, and Delaware becoming the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

A brief summary to First State National Historical Park

211 Delaware St, New Castle, Delaware, 19720, US
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Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring First State National Historical Park.

Since the park consists of multiple sites, plan your visit by selecting the sites that most interest you and checking their opening hours.
Check the National Park Service website for events and programs happening during your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the historical sites and trails.
Take advantage of ranger-led tours and interpretive programs to learn more about the park's history.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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New Castle Battery Park

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Explore First State National Historical Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near First State National Historical Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

If you are driving from the north, take I-95 South towards Wilmington. Exit at 5A for Route 13 South/New Castle. Follow signs for Route 13 South and continue for about 3 miles. Merge onto Route 9 South and after about 1 mile, turn right onto Delaware Street. The New Castle Court House Museum will be on your left at 211 Delaware St. There is no parking fee.
Public Transport

From Wilmington, DE (100 S French St), take the DART First State Route 15 bus directly to New Castle. From the New Castle stop, walk about 0.5 miles to 211 Delaware St. The bus fare is approximately $2.00.

Discover more about First State National Historical Park

First State National Historical Park is a unique park with sites spread throughout Delaware and into Pennsylvania, each telling a part of the story of the First State. Unlike many national parks with a central visitor center, First State National Historical Park has multiple locations, each with its own welcome area.The park's sites include the New Castle Court House Museum, where you can learn about colonial history and the judicial system. The Green in Dover was the site where Delaware delegates ratified the U.S. Constitution, making it the first state to do so. Other sites include the John Dickinson Plantation, the home of the “penman of the Revolution,” whose writings inspired colonial opposition to Great Britain. You can also visit Fort Christina and Old Swedes Church in Wilmington, marking the spot where Swedish and Finnish settlers first arrived in 1638. The Brandywine Valley offers a glimpse into an 18th-century English Quaker settlement.Visiting the park offers a blend of historical education and natural beauty. Explore exhibits, take guided tours, and engage with knowledgeable park rangers. Scenic trails wind through lush landscapes, providing opportunities for hiking and nature walks.