Of all the national parks in the US, only one is in Delaware. And while there’s only one national park in Delaware, First State National Historical Park has no shortage of attractions. In the post, we’ll take a deep dive into the six sites that make up First State, Delaware’s only national park.
Last updated on August 9, 2021. This post may contain affiliate links.
Table of Contents
National Parks in Delaware: First State National Historical Park
Since there’s only one national park in Delaware, we’re going to cove it pretty in-depth. Here are the six sites affiliated with First State National Historical Park.
Brandywine Valley
With its rolling hills and streams, this is one of the most beautiful locations in Delaware. People often say that the first state is flat and dull, but they couldn’t be more wrong. Brandywine Valley is a perfect place to showcase the splendor of the only national park in Delaware.
The Brandywine Valley covers land in both Delaware and Pennsylvania. It honors William Poole Bancroft who wanted to protect green space for all. There are more than 18 miles of trails here to enjoy. While you visit, check out Brandywine Creek State Park nearby for more rolling hills. The Nature Center there is also home to one of the First State National Historical Park passport stamps!
Where to Stay Nearby: DoubleTree, Westin, Hotel DuPont, Holiday Inn Express
Dover Green
In 1683, William Penn (the founder of Pennsylvania) created a plan for the Dover Green. It would serve as a gathering area in the growing town on Dover, now the capital of Delaware. Since its creation in 1717, it has witnessed many important events throughout history. These include the American Revolution, Cesar Rodney’s historic ride to Philadelphia to deliver an ever-important deciding vote, the women’s rights movement, and the civil rights movement, among many others.
First State Heritage Park, where the Dover Green is located, is managed by the National Park Service in partnership with Delaware State Parks. Events include First Saturdays and tours of the John Bell House, Old State House, and walking tours.
Where to Stay Nearby: Holiday Inn, Comfort Inn, Best Western, Microtel
Fort Christina
Fort Christina was built by Charles Gustavus Tott and it’s home to a lot of history. That history includes the remains of the first Swedish settlers in America. The fort served as an early center for Swedish and Finnish settlement in what would become Delaware.
There is no fee to visit Fort Christina. The park is only open between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During that season, the park opens at 9 a.m. white the fort itself is open between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Visitors can enjoy the many biking and hiking trails that are open here too, along with picnicking!
Where to Stay Nearby: DoubleTree, Westin, Hotel DuPont, Holiday Inn Express
John Dickinson Plantation
It won’t surprise me to hear you say you’ve never heard of John Dickinson despite his influential accomplishments. This plantation is his childhood home. During your visit, you’ll learn all about the Penman of the Revolution. He was a patriot who signed the Declaration of Independence and led Delaware during the American Revolution.
Visits include the John Dickinson Visitor Center where you may watch a short film, stamp your passport book, receive a Junior Booklet, and meet your tour guide. When ready, your guide will lead you on a tour.
Where to Stay Nearby: DoubleTree, Westin, Hotel DuPont, Holiday Inn Express
New Castle Courthouse
The New Castle Courthouse is the hub for First State National Historical Park.
It was built in 1732 and served as Delaware’s first courthouse and, eventually, the state capitol. Here, representatives from Delaware voted to secede from Pennsylvania and Great Britain in 1776, a historic moment leading to Delaware’s status as the first state to join the union.
When you tour the courthouse, you’ll learn about Delaware’s journey to statehood and its connection to the Underground Railroad. There’s also a small gift shop on-site where you can purchase souvenirs. Ask a staff member for junior ranger books and your passport stamp.
Where to Stay Nearby: Super 8, Quality Inn, Red Roof Inn, Budget Motor Lodge, Superlodge
Old Swedes Historic Site
In 1638, Swedish and Finnish settlers arrived in what is now Wilmington, Delaware. This specific site was used as a burial ground for the Fort, but archaeologists have also found evidence of earlier use by the Lenape peoples.
The site also features the Holy Trinity Church, also known as the Old Swedes Church. It served the Swedish community for decades and remains one of the few surviving remnants of the settler’s time in Delaware.
Tours of the site also include the Hendrickson House. It was built by a Swedish-American family and now serves as a museum, office, and research building. It was built just over the border in Pennsylvania before being relocated to the Old Swedes Historic Site in 1960.
Before visiting, check the hours of operation here.
Where to Stay Nearby: DoubleTree, Westin, Hotel DuPont, Holiday Inn Express
Sites Affiliated with National Parks in Delaware
In addition to the only national park in Delaware, there are also three affiliated sites. These are also managed by the National Park Service but are not considered national parks.
- Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail
- Chesapeake Bay Gateway Network
- Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail
Pin the National Parks in Delaware
Read About National Parks in Other States
