Bellevue State Park: A Suburban Oasis with a Storied Past
Explore history and nature at Bellevue State Park, a former DuPont estate with trails, gardens, and recreational activities in Wilmington, Delaware.
Bellevue State Park, a 331-acre oasis in the midst of suburban Wilmington, Delaware, carries a rich history and offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all interests. The park's centerpiece, Bellevue Hall, formerly known as Woolton Hall, began as a Gothic Revival castle built in 1855 by Hanson Robinson, a wealthy wool merchant. In 1893, William du Pont Sr. acquired the estate, and his son, William du Pont Jr., transformed the mansion into a neo-classical replica of Montpelier, President James Madison's former residence. An avid equestrian, du Pont Jr. also added horse stables, indoor training facilities, and a 1 ⅛ mile horse track, which is now a popular fitness loop. Today, Bellevue State Park provides a unique blend of historical charm and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the arboretum, hike or bike along multi-use trails, fish in the catch-and-release pond, or play disc golf. The park also features tennis courts, picnic areas, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for families. Throughout the year, Bellevue State Park hosts concerts, historic tours, and seasonal events, ensuring there's always something new to discover.
Local tips
- Entrance fees are in effect from March 1 to November 30; Delaware residents pay a lower daily rate.
- Explore the park's history by taking a tour of Bellevue Hall and visiting the Mount Pleasant Schoolhouse.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and disc golf on the park's trails and facilities.
- Attend a summer concert or other special event at the park's bandshell for a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Bellevue State Park
- 800 Carr Rd, Wilmington, Delaware, 19809, US
- +1302-761-6963
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Driving
From central Wilmington, take I-95 North to exit 10A for DE-202 N. Continue on DE-202 N for about 2 miles, then take the exit for Carr Road and turn left. The park entrance is approximately half a mile on the right at 800 Carr Rd. Parking is available on-site. Expect heavier traffic during peak hours and events.
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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, which is about 1.5 miles from the park. From there, you can walk along Carr Road to the park entrance (approximately 30 minutes) or use a local rideshare service. The bus fare is approximately $2.
