Clifford Brown Listening Garden
Clifford Brown Listening Garden: A Musical Oasis
Rodney Square: Wilmington's Civic Heart
Experience the beauty and history of Wilmington at Rodney Square, a vibrant civic center and historic landmark in the heart of downtown.
Rodney Square, located in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware, has been the city's symbolic center since the early 20th century. Named after Caesar Rodney, a significant figure in the American Revolution, the square has evolved from a water reservoir to a vibrant public space influenced by the City Beautiful movement.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Rodney Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Rodney Square
Getting There
Walking
Rodney Square is centrally located in downtown Wilmington, easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From the Wilmington Train Station, head north on French Street, then turn left onto 10th Street. Walk four blocks west to reach the square. No costs are involved.
Public Transport
DART First State bus routes serve Rodney Square. Numerous bus lines stop near the square, including routes 2, 4, 6, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20, 25, and 301. Check the DART First State website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. The minimum fare for one zone is $2. Exact change is required when paying with cash.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Wilmington. A short trip from the Wilmington Train Station to Rodney Square typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.
Driving
If driving, be aware that I-95 is under construction in Wilmington with intermittent lane and ramp closures. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of Rodney Square, including the Park BPG Garage, Mid-Town Garage, and City-Center Garage. Street parking is available surrounding Rodney Square and is free after 6 p.m. and on weekends. Parking rates in nearby garages typically range from $10-$20 per day.
Local tips
✓
Check the InWilmington website for events happening in Rodney Square.
✓
Visit the Downtown Wilmington Farmers' Market on Wednesdays from May to October for local produce and handmade items.
✓
Take a stroll around the square to admire the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Nemours Building and the Hotel DuPont.
Discover more about Rodney Square
Rodney Square, situated in downtown Wilmington, Delaware, serves as the city's central public square and a historic district. The square is named in honor of Caesar Rodney, a Founding Father who cast the deciding vote for independence.
Originally, the 1.5-acre site was acquired in parcels between 1825 and 1832 and housed Wilmington's first water reservoir from 1827 to 1877. Following the relocation of the reservoir, the New Castle County Courthouse occupied the space from 1881 to 1919.
In the early 1910s, Pierre S. du Pont and John Jacob Raskob developed a master plan to transform the area into a civic center, drawing inspiration from the City Beautiful movement. Construction began in 1915, and the square was completed in 1921. The equestrian statue of Caesar Rodney, created by James E. Kelly, was unveiled on July 4, 1923, becoming a defining symbol.
Today, Rodney Square hosts various events, including the Downtown Wilmington Farmers' Market, the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, and Earth Day celebrations. The Rodney Square Historic District, including the square and surrounding buildings, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.
A brief summary to Rodney Square
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Middletown
Discover the charming town of Middletown, Delaware, where history, nature, and community come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.
Tell me more about Middletown