Wilmington State Parks: An Urban Oasis
Discover history, nature, and recreation in the heart of Wilmington at these interconnected urban parks along the Brandywine River.
Wilmington State Parks, established in 1998, unites Brandywine, Rockford, and H. Fletcher Brown parks, along with Kentmere Parkway and the Hobbs Tract, creating an urban retreat along the Brandywine River. These parks, rich in history and natural beauty, offer diverse experiences, from tranquil gardens to recreational facilities. Brandywine Park, the oldest, was established in 1886 and designed with input from Frederick Law Olmsted. It features the Brandywine Zoo, the iconic Sugar Bowl, Josephine Fountain, and the Jasper Crane Rose Garden. The park's monuments commemorate the area's cultural history. Rockford Park, home to the iconic Rockford Tower, offers stunning city views. The 115-foot tower, built between 1899 and 1901, once supplied water to the city and now serves as an observation point. H. Fletcher Brown Park provides scenic overlooks of the Brandywine Creek and its historic millrace, which now supplies Wilmington's drinking water. The Hobbs Tract, acquired in 2004, was once part of a Du Pont family estate and the home of painter George Alexis Weymouth. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, athletic fields, picnic areas, and various events throughout the year. The parks also host monuments and memorials, offering insights into the region's past. Wilmington State Parks provide a valuable green space for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement in the heart of the city.
Local tips
- Explore the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, which connects Wilmington State Parks to other parks and historic sites.
- Visit the Rockford Tower in Rockford Park for panoramic views of Wilmington.
- Check the park's event calendar for concerts, festivals, and other activities.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views along the Brandywine River.
- Take advantage of volunteer opportunities to help maintain and improve the parks.
A brief summary to Wilmington State Parks
- 1 St. Rocco Way, Wilmington, Delaware, 19802, US
- +1302-577-7020
- 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
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Wilmington, the parks are accessible by foot. Start from Market Street and head north towards Brandywine Park. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes, following the Brandywine River. Enjoy the scenic views along the way. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
DART First State buses provide access to the parks from various points in Wilmington. Several bus routes, including the 002, 006, 013, and others, stop near the parks. Check the DART website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A one-way fare is $2.00.
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Driving
From I-95, take exit 7B for Delaware Avenue toward Wilmington. Follow Delaware Avenue and turn onto N Park Drive to reach Brandywine Park. Parking is available in the park, but access may be limited due to bridge painting project until December 2025. Metered street parking is also available in the surrounding areas, costing $3 per hour, enforced Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Some parking lots offer hourly rates, typically around $3 for the first hour.
