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Wilmington State Parks: An Urban Oasis

Explore nature, history, and recreation in the heart of Wilmington at these interconnected parks along the scenic Brandywine River.

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Wilmington State Parks, a collection of interconnected parks along the Brandywine River, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational activities in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware. From formal gardens to historic monuments, the parks provide a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Wilmington State Parks

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit the Brandywine Zoo to see animals from around the world in a compact, family-friendly setting.
  • Climb Rockford Tower for panoramic views of Wilmington and the surrounding area.
  • Stroll through the Jasper Crane Rose Garden in Brandywine Park to admire a variety of roses and a tranquil fountain.
  • Enjoy a picnic along the Brandywine River, taking advantage of the scenic views and picnic facilities.
  • Check the park's event calendar for summer concerts, festivals, and other community events.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Wilmington, the parks are easily accessible on foot. Follow N Market Street north, then turn left onto Brandywine Park Drive. Continue along the road to reach Brandywine Park. From there, you can walk to Rockford and H. Fletcher Brown Parks via connecting trails. Note that I-95 construction may limit parking in Brandywine Park until December 2025.

  • Public Transport

    DART First State buses #5 and #25 service the Brandywine Valley area. Check the DART website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A one-way fare is $2.00.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Wilmington. A ride from the Riverfront area to Brandywine Park typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

Unlock the Best of Wilmington State Parks

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Discover more about Wilmington State Parks

Wilmington State Parks, established in 1998, unites Brandywine Park, Rockford Park, H. Fletcher Brown Park, and the Hobbs Tract, creating a 576-acre urban retreat along the Brandywine River. These parks have fostered family memories and traditions for generations. Brandywine Park, the oldest, was established in 1886 and designed with input from landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. It features the Brandywine Zoo, the iconic Sugar Bowl, the Josephine Fountain, and the Jasper Crane Rose Garden. The park offers a mix of wilderness and open space, with walking trails and scenic views. Rockford Park's centerpiece is the Rockford Tower, an iconic piece of the Wilmington skyline offering beautiful city views. The park provides open spaces for picnics, jogging, and other outdoor activities. H. Fletcher Brown Park, the smallest unit, offers a scenic overlook of the Brandywine Creek and the historic millrace that supplies Wilmington's drinking water. The Hobbs Tract, acquired in 2004, adjoins Valley Garden Park and was once part of a Du Pont family estate. Throughout the parks, visitors can explore monuments, memorials, and historic bridges that connect the community. Recreational facilities include tennis courts, ball fields, and fitness stations. The Brandywine River itself serves as a source of drinking water and a spawning ground for shad.

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