Dutch House Museum, The Coastal Plain Travel Guide

4.9 (11)

Explore Dutch Colonial life in one of Delaware's oldest homes, filled with period artifacts and unique architecture.

Step back in time at the Dutch House Museum, one of the oldest houses in Delaware, dating back to the late 17th century. Explore its Dutch Colonial and European antiques, reflecting the traditions and lifestyles of early America. Despite its name, the house showcases English building methods with some Netherlandish qualities.

A brief summary to Dutch House Museum

32 E 3rd St, New Castle, Delaware, 19720, US
Click to display
Click to display

Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dutch House Museum.

Check the New Castle Historical Society website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and special events.
Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Amstel House for a broader view of New Castle's history.
Parking is free on the street, but it can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking between the various historical sites in New Castle.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

First State National Historical Park

Chief Little Owl

Cape Henlopen State Park

Johnson Victrola Museum

Fort Miles Historical Area

Explore Dutch House Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Dutch House Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Dutch House Museum is located in the heart of New Castle's historic district at 32 E 3rd St. If you are already in the historic area, such as at the New Castle Court House Museum or the Amstel House, the Dutch House is easily accessible on foot. From the Court House, walk east on Delaware Street, then turn right onto E 3rd Street. The Dutch House will be on your left. The walk is short and allows you to appreciate the historic architecture of the town.
Public Transport

If arriving by public transport via DART First State bus, Route 15 stops near the historic area at the corner of Delaware and Sixth Streets. From the bus stop, walk west on Delaware Street, then turn left onto N. Castle Street, followed by a right turn onto E 3rd Street. The Dutch House will be on your right. A one-way fare on DART First State is approximately $2. Transfers are accepted within the city limits.
Driving

If driving, navigate to 32 E 3rd St, New Castle, DE 19720. From I-95, take Exit 5A for DE-141 South towards New Castle. Continue past the Routes 13 & 40 overpass and follow signs for DE-273 East, which leads into New Castle. Turn left onto E 3rd Street; the Dutch House will be on your left. Free on-street parking is available, but it can be limited. Public parking lots are located at Second and Chestnut Streets, on West Third Street, the corner of West Third and South Streets, and at West Third & Battery Park.

Discover more about Dutch House Museum

The Dutch House Museum, located in historic New Castle, Delaware, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and collection of Dutch Colonial artifacts. Constructed in the late 17th century, the house is considered one of the oldest in Delaware, though its construction reflects English building traditions with some Netherlandish influences.Originally believed to be a Dutch home, the house was likely built between 1690 and 1710, either by John Walker, a farmer, or Powell Barnes, a turner. The house evolved over time, with a cellar added, brick exterior applied, and a full second floor added in 1823, remodeled in the Federal style.Inside, visitors can admire early pewter, a hutch table, a kas (an unusual cupboard), a spoon rack, and a 1714 Bible. These items, collected by early 20th-century preservationist Louise du Pont Crowninshield, provide insight into the lives of early settlers. The New Castle Historical Society manages the Dutch House, offering tours and programs throughout the year.The Dutch House is situated across from the New Castle town green. A visit to the Dutch House can be combined with other historical attractions in New Castle, such as the Amstel House, the New Castle Court House Museum, and Battery Park.