New Castle Court House Museum: A Landmark of Delaware History
Explore Delaware's rich history at the New Castle Court House Museum, where independence was declared and justice was served.
The New Castle Court House Museum, built in 1732, stands as one of the oldest courthouses in the United States and a National Historic Landmark. It served as Delaware's first court and state capitol, witnessing the state's declaration of independence from Pennsylvania and England in 1776. Today, the museum offers tours and exhibits that explore Delaware's unique history, law, and role in the Underground Railroad.
A brief summary to New Castle Court House Museum
- 211 Delaware St, New Castle, Delaware, 19720, US
- +1302-323-4453
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 1:30 pm-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Tours are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.; and on Sundays at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
- Admission to the museum is free, but donations are appreciated.
- Street parking is available in downtown New Castle within walking distance of the museum.
- The first floor of the courthouse is accessible to people with mobility concerns.
Getting There
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Walking
The New Castle Court House Museum is located in the heart of the historic district. If you are already in the historic area, the museum is easily accessible on foot. From the New Castle Visitor Center at the Arsenal, head southwest on Delaware Street. The Court House will be on your left. Sidewalks in Historic New Castle are brick and can be uneven.
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Public Transport
DART Route Number 15 serves the historic district of New Castle. Route 51 has stops just a short walk from the historic district. From the bus stop, follow Delaware Street to the museum. Single ride fares for DART buses typically cost around $2.
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Driving
The New Castle Court House Museum is located at 211 Delaware St, New Castle, DE 19720. From I-95, take exit 5A for Delaware Route 141 South toward New Castle. Continue onto Route 141 S, then merge onto US-13 S. Turn left onto Delaware Street. Street parking is available throughout New Castle. Public parking lots are available at Second and Chestnut Streets, on West Third Street, the corner of West Third and South Streets, and at West Third & Battery Park. Parking is free. Be aware that on special event days, satellite parking may be available.
Discover more about New Castle Court House Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Henry N. Burgie Memorial Fountain
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New Castle Historical Society
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Old Library Museum
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Grave of US Constitution, Declaration of Independence signer George Read
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New Castle Crier
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New Castle and Frenchtown Railroad
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New Castle Italian Immigrant Memorial
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Historic Penn Farm
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Unmissable attractions to see
First State National Historical Park
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New Castle Visitor Center at The Arsenal
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Dutch House Museum
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Amstel House Museum
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Packet Alley
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Read House & Gardens
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New Castle Battery Park
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Deemers Beach
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Welcome to Delaware Sign
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Delaware Memorial Bridge
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Finns Point Lighthouse
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Jack A. Markell Trail
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Fort Mott State Park
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DuPont Environmental Education Center of Delaware Nature Society
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Russell Peterson Wildlife Refuge
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Essential places to dine
Jessop's Tavern
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Bahama Breeze
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Timothy's Riverfront Grill
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Texas Roadhouse
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The Cheesecake Factory
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River Rock Kitchen
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Brio Italian Grille
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Keem's Cuisine
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Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront
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Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
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Del Pez Riverfront
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Ciro Food And Drink
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The Border Cafe
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Docklands Riverfront
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Banks' Seafood Kitchen and Raw Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
D'Afrique
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Treasure Hunt Records and Collectibles
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The Farm
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AFRIKAN ATTIRE
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Willow Tree
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Marshalls & HomeGoods
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Trader Joe's
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The Container Store
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Fortunoff Backyard Store
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Christiana Fashion Center
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Soleply
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Bullseye Sneaker Boutique
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Christiana Mall
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Barnes & Noble
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South Moon Under
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hak's Bar
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Rack’s Smoked Bbq
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Suite 4 Eleven
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DARNELL'S CAS BAR
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Buffalo Wild Wings
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The Knight's Bar
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Simmer Down
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Sabatina’s Sandwiches
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Makers Alley
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The Nomad Bar
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Comegy's Pub
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La Matesina Pizza Pasta Delaware City
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Torbert Street Social
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The Carriage House Bar + Lounge
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