Fort Delaware State Park: A Civil War Fortress on Pea Patch Island
Explore a historic Civil War fortress and natural bird sanctuary on Pea Patch Island, accessible by ferry from Delaware City.
Journey to Fort Delaware State Park, a historic Civil War-era fortress on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River. Accessible only by ferry, the park offers a unique blend of history and nature, featuring living history reenactments and a significant bird rookery. Explore the well-preserved fort and immerse yourself in the past.
A brief summary to Fort Delaware State Park
- 45 Clinton St, Delaware City, Delaware, 19706, US
- +1302-834-7941
- Visit website
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the ground on Pea Patch Island can be uneven.
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray to protect yourself from the elements.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it varies seasonally.
- Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the designated picnic area.
- Purchase ferry tickets online in advance to guarantee access, especially during peak season.
Getting There
-
Ferry
To reach Fort Delaware, you must take a ferry from the Delaware City Ferry Dock located at 45 Clinton St, Delaware City, DE 19706. Purchase tickets at the ticket office. The ferry ride is approximately a half-mile to Pea Patch Island. Upon arrival to the island, a tram is available to transport visitors to the fort. As of July 2025, ferry tickets cost $15 for adults (ages 13+), $8 for children (ages 2-12), and $14 for seniors (62+) and military personnel. Children under 2 ride free. Parking fees are separate and subject to Delaware City fees.
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sabatina’s Sandwiches
0.2 km
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La Matesina Pizza Pasta Delaware City
0.9 km
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Sunday's Cafe 64
1.0 km
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Rack’s Smoked Bbq
6.7 km
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Kelly's Tavern
6.9 km
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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
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Hutch's Pub
13.6 km
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On The Rocks Bar
13.7 km
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McGlynns Pub - Glasgow
13.8 km
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Applebee's Grill + Bar
14.1 km
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Buffalo Wild Wings
14.2 km
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Halftime Sports and Music
14.7 km
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Bankshots
14.9 km
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