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Rockwood Park & Museum: A Gothic Revival Gem

Discover a captivating blend of history and nature at Rockwood Park & Museum, a stunning Gothic Revival estate in Wilmington, Delaware.

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Explore Rockwood Park & Museum, a captivating blend of history and nature in Wilmington, Delaware. This 19th-century English-style country estate features a Rural Gothic mansion, Victorian house museum, and picturesque gardens, offering a glimpse into the lives of a prominent Wilmington family.

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

  • Check the museum's schedule for special events and exhibitions before your visit.
  • New Castle County residents receive discounted admission with a valid ID.
  • Visit during spring or fall for the most vibrant scenery and comfortable weather.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Wilmington, take the DART First State bus route 24 from the Wilmington Transit Center. Ride the bus to the stop at Washington Street Extension and Rockwood Park. Check the DART schedule for exact stop details. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the park entrance at 4651 Washington Street Extension. A single ride fare is $2.00.

  • Car

    From I-95, take exit 7 for I-495 North towards New Castle. Continue on I-495 and take exit 1B for Route 202 North. Follow Route 202 North and turn left onto Washington Street Extension. Continue for about 1 mile, and the museum will be on your right. On-site parking is free. If you are a park visitor, use the first large double parking lot. To reach the Mansion and Carriage House, continue driving through the parking lot.

Unlock the Best of Rockwood Park & Museum

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Discover more about Rockwood Park & Museum

Rockwood Park & Museum, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and natural beauty. Built between 1851 and 1854 by Joseph Shipley, a wealthy Quaker merchant banker, the estate was designed to reflect the charm of an English country estate. The mansion itself is a stunning example of Rural Gothic Revival architecture, a style that was fashionable at the time and characterized by its avoidance of symmetry and plain design. Visitors can explore the Victorian house museum, which showcases furnishings and artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Shipley and Bringhurst families who resided here. The museum boasts collections of family fashions, photographs, paintings, antiques, and ceramics. The surrounding 72-acre park features picturesque gardens designed in the Gardenesque landscape style, with a diverse collection of trees and flowering shrubs. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. Rockwood Park & Museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including ghost tours, family programs, yoga classes, and seasonal festivals. The Carriage House at Rockwood Park is also available as a unique venue for private events.

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