Fort Delaware State Park: A Civil War Fortress on Pea Patch Island
Explore a historic Civil War fortress and natural haven on Pea Patch Island, accessible by ferry from Delaware City.
Journey back in time at Fort Delaware State Park, a historic Civil War-era fortress on Pea Patch Island. Accessible only by ferry, this unique state park offers a blend of history and nature, featuring guided tours, reenactments, and a chance to explore the well-preserved fort and its fascinating past.
A brief summary to Fort Delaware State Park
- 45 Clinton St, Delaware City, Delaware, 19706, US
- +1302-834-7941
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it varies seasonally.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for exploring the fort and island.
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray for protection.
- Consider visiting during a reenactment or special event for a more immersive experience.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the picnic area.
Getting There
-
Ferry
The only way to reach Fort Delaware State Park is by ferry from Delaware City. The ferry dock is located at 45 Clinton Street, Delaware City, DE 19706. Purchase ferry tickets online in advance or at the ticket office. Same-day tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The ferry ride is approximately 10-15 minutes. **Cost:** * Adults (13+): $15 * Children (2-12): $8 * Seniors (62+) and Military: $14 * Children (Under 2): Free Note: The ferry operates seasonally, typically from late spring to late September. Check the schedule for specific dates and times. The ferry may be canceled due to inclement weather.
-
Walking/Tram
Once you arrive on Pea Patch Island via the ferry, it is approximately a 1/3 mile walk to the fort entrance. A tram service is available from the ferry dock to the fort and is included in the ferry ticket price. The tram is accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Discover more about Fort Delaware State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Delaware Ferry
1.4 km
Discover the rich history and scenic beauty of Delaware with a visit to Fort Delaware via the Fort Delaware Ferry.
New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad
9.1 km
Explore the historical significance of the New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad, a landmark embodying early American railroading in Delaware.
New Castle Italian Immigrant Memorial
9.2 km
Explore the New Castle Italian Immigrant Memorial, a touching historical landmark celebrating the legacy of Italian immigrants in the heart of Delaware.
Henry N. Burgie Memorial Fountain
9.3 km
Explore the beauty of the Henry N. Burgie Memorial Fountain, a historic landmark in New Castle, Delaware, offering tranquility and a glimpse into the past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Battery Park
0.1 km
Discover scenic waterfront views, historical charm, and community events at Battery Park in Delaware City, Delaware.
Fort Delaware Society
0.7 km
Step back in time at Fort Delaware, a Civil War-era fortress on Pea Patch Island, offering history, reenactments, and natural beauty.
Fort DuPont State Park
0.8 km
Explore historic Fort DuPont State Park in Delaware City: where military history meets outdoor recreation along the Delaware River and C&D Canal.
Fort DuPont Mortar Bunker
0.9 km
Explore a piece of American military history at Fort DuPont Mortar Bunker in Middletown, Delaware, a relic of coastal defense strategies.
Pea Patch Island
2.0 km
Explore Civil War history and observe unique wildlife on Pea Patch Island, home to Fort Delaware and a major bird sanctuary.
Fort Delaware State Park and Pea Patch Island
2.1 km
Explore a Civil War fortress and a vibrant bird sanctuary on Pea Patch Island, a unique historical and natural destination.
Augustine Wildlife Area
4.2 km
Explore Delaware's wild side at Augustine Wildlife Area: a haven for birdwatching, hiking, and serene natural beauty.
Fort Mott State Park
4.2 km
Experience history and nature at Fort Mott State Park, a serene getaway rich in historical significance and stunning river views in New Jersey.
Finns Point Lighthouse
6.3 km
Discover maritime history and natural beauty at Finns Point Lighthouse, nestled in the serene Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Pennsville, NJ.
William V Roth Jr. Bridge
6.7 km
Experience the architectural beauty of the Roth Bridge, a landmark offering scenic views and a vital transportation link in Delaware.
Port Penn Interpretive Center
6.8 km
Explore the history and folklife of the Delaware River wetland communities at the Port Penn Interpretive Center, a gateway to the past.
Christmas House
7.1 km
Experience the magic of Christmas year-round at the Christmas House in Bear, Delaware, where festive cheer and holiday spirit come alive.
Frightland
7.6 km
Experience heart-stopping thrills at Frightland, Delaware's top haunted attraction with 8 unique haunts and a terrifying history.
Augustine Beach Access Area
8.0 km
Discover a peaceful retreat at Augustine Beach Access Area in Middletown, DE, offering serene sandy shores and tranquil waters for relaxation and recreation.
Deemers Beach
8.2 km
Discover Deemers Beach: A tranquil Delaware escape with soft sands, scenic views, and a rich history as a former resort destination.
Essential places to dine
Crabby Dick's
0.1 km
Discover Crabby Dick's in Delaware City - A Seafood Paradise Offering Fresh Flavors and Coastal Charm.
Kathy's Crab House
1.0 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Kathy's Crab House in Delaware City, where every bite tells a story of coastal flavors.
Texas Roadhouse
8.5 km
Experience the sizzle at Texas Roadhouse – where savory steaks meet warm hospitality in Bear, Delaware.
Trattoria di Napoli Restaurant
8.8 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Trattoria di Napoli Restaurant in Bear, DE – where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.
Jessop's Tavern
9.2 km
Discover traditional American dining at Jessop's Tavern in New Castle – where history meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Grain H2O
10.7 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at Grain H2O - where gourmet meets comfort in Bear, Delaware's vibrant gastropub scene.
Mom's Kitchen
11.4 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Mom's Kitchen in Bear, DE—where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
Bertucci's Italian Restaurant
12.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bertucci's Italian Restaurant in Newark – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Bahama Breeze
12.1 km
Discover Bahama Breeze in Newark: A Caribbean dining experience filled with vibrant flavors and tropical drinks perfect for every occasion.
Bob Evans
12.4 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Bob Evans in Newark DE with hearty breakfasts & comforting meals perfect for all ages.
The Cheesecake Factory
12.4 km
Experience diverse American cuisine and irresistible cheesecakes at The Cheesecake Factory in Newark's Christiana Mall.
Brio Italian Grille
12.6 km
Savor the authentic flavors of Italy at Brio Italian Grille in Newark—where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
13.9 km
Experience the art of wood-fired cooking at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill - where steak meets seafood in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Border Cafe
14.1 km
Experience the best of Mexican and Cajun cuisine at The Border Cafe in Newark – where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
eggspectation - Christiana
14.2 km
Discover Eggsperience at Eggspectation - Christiana: A premier destination for delectable breakfasts and brunches in Newark, Delaware.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ice Cream Parlor
0.1 km
Experience the irresistible charm and delightful flavors at Delaware City's Ice Cream Parlor, your sweet escape in town.
Delaware City Trading Company
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Delaware City at the Delaware City Trading Company, your go-to grocery store for local treats and artisanal delights.
St Georges Country Store
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant Cajun cuisine at St Georges Country Store, a cozy restaurant in Delaware offering authentic flavors and welcoming hospitality.
AFRIKAN ATTIRE
8.7 km
Explore the essence of African culture at Afrikan Attire, your go-to destination for authentic clothing, beauty products, and tailored services.
The Farm
8.7 km
Discover a curated selection of premium cannabis products in a welcoming atmosphere at The Farm, New Castle's top cannabis destination.
Chick-fil-A
8.9 km
Experience the joy of delicious chicken sandwiches and family-friendly dining at Chick-fil-A in Bear, Delaware.
Governor's Square Shopping Center
9.0 km
Discover a vibrant shopping haven at Governor's Square Shopping Center, featuring diverse stores and delightful dining options in Bear, Delaware.
One stop tobacco outlet and market
9.6 km
Explore the One Stop Tobacco Outlet and Market in Newark, Delaware—a unique grocery store for tobacco enthusiasts and everyday essentials.
Treasure Hunt Records and Collectibles
9.8 km
Explore a vintage wonderland of collectibles, from vinyl records to rare comic books, at Treasure Hunt Records and Collectibles in Delaware.
Marshalls & HomeGoods
11.5 km
Explore Marshalls & HomeGoods in Newark, Delaware for unbeatable deals on clothing, home goods, and unique treasures, perfect for every shopper.
Fortunoff Backyard Store
11.7 km
Explore Fortunoff Backyard Store in Newark, Delaware for high-quality outdoor furniture and decor to enhance your outdoor living experience.
Trader Joe's
11.7 km
Experience a treasure trove of organic groceries and unique foods at Trader Joe's in Newark, perfect for health-conscious shoppers and culinary explorers.
Christiana Fashion Center
11.8 km
Explore Christiana Fashion Center, Delaware's premier shopping destination, featuring a variety of stores, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Container Store
11.9 km
Discover unparalleled organization solutions at The Container Store in Newark, Delaware, where creativity meets functionality for your home.
D'Afrique
12.0 km
Discover unique fashion accessories at D'Afrique in New Castle, Delaware, where culture meets style in a vibrant shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sabatina’s Sandwiches
0.2 km
Savor the best sandwiches in Delaware City at Sabatina's, where freshness meets flavor in every bite.
La Matesina Pizza Pasta Delaware City
0.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Matesina Pizza Pasta in Delaware City, where delicious pizza and pasta await every visitor.
Sunday's Cafe 64
1.0 km
Discover the culinary delights of Sunday's Cafe 64 in Delaware City, where every dish is made with love and fresh ingredients.
Rack’s Smoked Bbq
6.7 km
Experience mouthwatering smoked meats and a vibrant atmosphere at Rack’s Smoked BBQ in New Castle, Delaware, a must-visit for BBQ lovers.
Kelly's Tavern
6.9 km
Discover the heart of Port Penn at Kelly's Tavern, where delightful cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Red Lion Inn & Liquor Store
8.0 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of Red Lion Inn & Liquor Store, a charming bar in Bear, Delaware, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local culture.
Thurston's Pub
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Thurston's Pub in Bear, Delaware, where drinks and entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Two Stones Pub Newark
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Two Stones Pub, Newark's favorite gastropub with an extensive craft beer selection.
Hutch's Pub
13.6 km
Discover the warmth of Hutch's Pub in Newark, DE, where delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.
On The Rocks Bar
13.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Newark at On The Rocks Bar, where great drinks and lively events come together in a welcoming atmosphere.
McGlynns Pub - Glasgow
13.8 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at McGlynns Pub, where traditional Scottish hospitality meets delicious cuisine and lively entertainment.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
14.1 km
Enjoy a vibrant American dining experience at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Newark, Delaware, featuring classic dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Buffalo Wild Wings
14.2 km
Discover Buffalo Wild Wings in Newark, DE – where delicious chicken wings meet thrilling sports excitement for an unforgettable dining experience.
Halftime Sports and Music
14.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Halftime Sports and Music in Newark, where sports and live music unite for an unforgettable experience.
Bankshots
14.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and friendly service at Bankshots, the go-to bar in Newark, DE for drinks, fun, and socializing.
