Rockford Park: A Wilmington Landmark
Discover scenic views, recreational activities, and historical landmarks at Wilmington's beloved Rockford Park, a 104-acre urban oasis.
Rockford Park, located in Wilmington's Highlands neighborhood, is a cherished public space with a rich history. Established in 1889 through the efforts of William Poole Bancroft and the du Pont family, the park spans 104 acres of open green space and wooded trails. The park's centerpiece is the Rockford Tower, a 115-foot stone water tower constructed in 1901. Designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival and Gothic architectural styles, the tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Brandywine River. The tower is open for tours on select summer days. Rockford Park provides various recreational opportunities, including tennis courts, baseball fields, and wooded paths for walking, running, and biking. An off-leash dog park is a popular spot for community dog lovers. The park also hosts community events, such as summer concerts and the annual Wilmington Flower Market. Memorials within the park include Canby Seat, a granite bench honoring botanist William M. Canby, and a statue of Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont. These landmarks add to the park's historical and cultural significance. Rockford Park's combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and historical landmarks makes it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Local tips
- Visit the Rockford Tower on a summer Sunday for a tour and stunning views of Wilmington.
- Bring your dog to enjoy the off-leash dog park and connect with other pet owners.
- Explore the wooded trails for a peaceful walk, run, or bike ride amidst nature.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the open green spaces or at one of the park's picnic spots.
- Check the Friends of Wilmington Parks website for upcoming events like summer concerts and community programs.
A brief summary to Rockford Park
- Lookout Dr, Wilmington, Highlands, Delaware, 19806, US
- +1302-577-7020
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Delaware Avenue and North Union Street in Wilmington, head north on North Union Street for approximately 0.8 miles. Turn right onto West 19th Street and continue for 0.3 miles. Turn left onto Tower Road, then right onto Tower Drive. Follow the one-way road to reach the park's main areas. This walk is roughly 1.2 miles and should take about 25 minutes.
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Public Transport
From downtown Wilmington, take DART Route 10 towards Brandywine Town Center. Get off at the stop at Pennsylvania Avenue and Tower Road. Walk north on Tower Road for two blocks, then turn right onto Tower Drive to enter the park. The bus fare is $2 per ride [https://www.dartfirststate.com/fare-information/].
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Driving
From I-95 in Wilmington, take Exit 7 for Delaware Avenue/Route 52 North. At the first traffic light, turn onto Route 52 North (Delaware Avenue), heading away from downtown. At the next light, bear slightly left as Route 52 North becomes Pennsylvania Avenue. Continue for about one mile, then stay to the right. Look for Tower Road on your right, a small green street sign. Turn right onto Tower Road, go two blocks, and at the second stop sign (West 19th Street), you'll see the entrance to Rockford Park ahead. Enter the park and follow Tower Drive. Parking is available near the tennis courts. Parking is free.
