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Rockford Tower: Wilmington's Historic Overlook

Discover panoramic views and rich history at Rockford Tower, a Wilmington landmark in beautiful Rockford Park. Open Sundays!

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Rockford Tower, a historic stone water tower in Wilmington's Rockford Park, offers panoramic city views. Built in the early 1900s in Italian Renaissance Revival and Gothic styles, it stands as a landmark and a testament to the city's industrial past and urban reform.

A brief summary to Rockford Tower

Local tips

  • Check the Delaware State Parks website for the schedule of events and observation deck hours, especially for summer concerts.
  • Visit on a Sunday afternoon when the tower is open to the public to climb to the top and enjoy the views.
  • Explore the rest of Rockford Park, including the tennis courts, walking paths, and memorials.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's open spaces and wooded areas.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From within Rockford Park, follow the paved paths towards the highest point, Mt. Salem Hill. The tower is visible from most areas of the park. The walk is moderately uphill, but well-maintained. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Wilmington Train Station, transfer to DART bus route 10 towards the Highlands. Get off at the stop closest to Lookout Drive. Walk down Lookout Drive towards Rockford Tower, a short 10-minute walk. Bus fare is approximately $2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Wilmington, a taxi or ride-share to Rockford Tower (Lookout Dr, Wilmington, DE 19806) will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $10-$15.

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Discover more about Rockford Tower

Rockford Tower, nestled within Rockford Park in Wilmington, Delaware, is more than just a scenic overlook; it's a symbol of the city's history and dedication to progress. Constructed between 1899 and 1902, the 115-foot tower served dual purposes: providing essential water storage and offering a stunning observation point. The tower's design, a blend of Italian Renaissance Revival and Gothic architecture, reflects a conscious effort to harmonize with the park's natural character. Engineer Theodore A. Leisen sourced Brandywine 'Blue Rock' from the riverbanks and old farm walls, giving the tower a distinctive and timeless appearance. Originally, the tower held a half-million-gallon water tank, addressing the growing demands of Wilmington's expanding population during the Industrial Revolution. The observation deck quickly gained popularity, accessible via a local trolley line, offering unparalleled views of the city and the Brandywine Creek. Over the years, Rockford Tower has witnessed many changes, including closures during World War II and the 1970s. Major renovations in 1983 and 2001 ensured its preservation for future generations. Today, the tower is open to the public on Sunday afternoons, inviting visitors to climb to the top and experience the breathtaking vistas. Rockford Park itself offers ample opportunities for recreation, with tennis courts, walking paths, and a popular dog park. The park also features memorials, including the Canby Seat, the Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont statue, and the Bancroft Memorial, each adding to the park's rich historical tapestry.

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