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Rockford Park: A Wilmington Landmark

Escape to Wilmington's historic Rockford Park: scenic views, recreation, and community events in a lush, 104-acre urban oasis.

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Rockford Park, a historic park in Wilmington, Delaware, offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Founded in 1889, the park features rolling hills, wooded areas, and the iconic Rockford Tower, providing stunning city views.

A brief summary to Rockford Park

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit the Rockford Tower on a summer Sunday or during a Monday evening summer concert for tours and stunning city views.
  • Explore the park's wooded paths for running, walking, and biking, and connect to the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail.
  • Bring your dog to the popular off-leash dog park, a great gathering place for community dog lovers.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Wilmington, take DART First State bus route 33 from the stop at 2nd and King Street. Ride for 15-20 minutes to the Lookout Drive stop. From there, walk about 5 minutes uphill to Rockford Park. The bus fare is approximately $2.

  • Car

    From downtown Wilmington, head northwest on Market Street, which merges into Pennsylvania Avenue. After about 1 mile, turn left onto Lookout Drive. Rockford Park will be on your right. Free parking is available within the park.

Unlock the Best of Rockford Park

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Discover more about Rockford Park

Rockford Park, located in the Highlands neighborhood of Wilmington, Delaware, is a 104-acre urban oasis with a rich history and scenic charm. Established in 1889, thanks to the vision of philanthropist William Poole Bancroft and a land donation from the du Pont family, the park was designed to provide a green escape for city residents. The park's centerpiece is the historic Rockford Tower, a 115-foot stone water tower constructed in 1901. Designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival and Gothic architectural styles by Theodore A. Leisen, the tower served both a utilitarian and decorative purpose, supplying water to the growing city while also functioning as an observation point. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Wilmington and the Brandywine River. Rockford Park offers a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore walking and biking trails, enjoy picnics in designated areas, and let their dogs run free in the off-leash dog park. The park also features baseball fields and tennis courts for sports enthusiasts. Throughout the year, Rockford Park hosts community events such as summer concerts and the Wilmington Flower Market. Beyond recreation, Rockford Park is home to several memorials, including the Canby Seat, a granite bench honoring botanist William M. Canby, and a statue of Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont. These monuments add to the park's historical significance and provide a glimpse into Wilmington's past.

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