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Brandywine Park: Wilmington's Urban Oasis

Discover Wilmington's largest urban park: a historic landscape with gardens, trails, and the Brandywine Zoo along the scenic Brandywine River.

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Established in 1886, Brandywine Park is Wilmington's largest urban park, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities along the Brandywine River. Inspired by Frederick Law Olmsted's "Natural Landscape Movement," the 178-acre park features wooded trails, formal gardens, and attractions like the Brandywine Zoo and the historic Josephine Fountain.

A brief summary to Brandywine Park

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the spring to witness the stunning cherry blossom display around the Josephine Fountain.
  • Explore the Brandywine Zoo, Delaware's only zoo, located within the park.
  • Take a walk or jog along the scenic trails that wind through the park's wooded areas and gardens.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the Brandywine River, taking advantage of the park's picturesque setting.
  • Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of downtown Wilmington, such as the Hotel DuPont, head north on N Market Street. Turn left onto 11th Street, then right onto N Park Drive. Continue on N Park Drive, and the park will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Transit Center, several DART bus routes provide access to Brandywine Park. Check the DART First State website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Bus fare is $2.00 per ride. From the bus stop, follow the park's walking paths to reach your desired destination.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Wilmington Station, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option. The ride to Brandywine Park is approximately 2 miles and typically costs between $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main entrance near the Brandywine Zoo or the Josephine Fountain for easy access to the park's attractions.

  • Driving

    From I-95, take exit 8 for Concord Pike/DE-202. Follow signs for DE-202 South/Concord Pike and merge onto Concord Pike. Turn right onto N Broom Street, then left onto W 18th Street. Turn right onto N Van Buren Street, then sharp left onto N Park Drive. Parking is available in lots throughout the park, including near the Brandywine Zoo and the Jasper Crane Rose Garden. Parking is free. Limited accessible parking spaces are available.

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Discover more about Brandywine Park

Brandywine Park, winding along the Brandywine River in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware, stands as a testament to the city's commitment to green spaces and recreation. Established in 1886, the park owes its origins to the late 19th-century "Natural Landscape Movement," mirroring the design principles of Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect behind New York's Central Park. Spanning 178 acres, Brandywine Park offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. Visitors can explore wooded trails, admire formal gardens, and discover historical monuments. The Brandywine Zoo, Delaware's only zoo, resides within the park, showcasing a variety of animals. The historic Jasper Crane Rose Garden and the picturesque Josephine Fountain, especially stunning during the spring cherry blossom display, are also popular destinations. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Brandywine Park provides recreational facilities, including playgrounds, athletic fields, and the Abessinio Stadium. The park also features a fitness circuit loop for outdoor exercise enthusiasts. The Sugar Bowl, an historic oratory stage, has hosted famous speakers. The park's design incorporates the natural landscape, with pathways following the contours of the Brandywine Creek and wooded hillsides preserving native vegetation. Brandywine Park was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, solidifying its significance as a cultural and historical landmark. Whether strolling along the river, enjoying a picnic, or attending a cultural event, Brandywine Park offers a tranquil escape within the urban environment.

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