The visitor center at First State National Historical Park is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Wednesdays, and from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM from Thursdays through Saturdays.
There is no entrance fee to visit First State National Historical Park. However, some partnering sites may charge small fees for special tours or programs.
From Wilmington, take I-95 South to New Castle, then follow signs to Historic New Castle, where the journey through America’s founding history awaits.
At First State National Historical Park, parking is free with no time limit. There are four parking lots in the Brandywine Valley, but they cannot accommodate oversized vehicles like RVs. No overnight parking is allowed unless registered for specific activities. Motorcycles can park in these lots. No parking fees apply.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
First State National Historical Park, spanning across Delaware and a slice of Pennsylvania, is a tapestry of historical significance and natural beauty. This park is not centered around a lake, but its diverse landscapes and historic sites offer a rich and immersive experience. The park comprises seven distinct locations, each telling a chapter in the story of America’s formation.
At the Woodlawn Tract at Beaver Valley, mature forests envelop visitors, evoking the lives of early settlers and Native Americans. The John Dickinson Plantation, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a testament to the boyhood home of one of America’s founding fathers. Here, the 1740 plantation house and its surroundings bring to life the era of revolution and independence.
Nearby, the Old Sweedes Historic Site and Fort Christina reveal the complex history of imperial conflicts and early European settlements. The New Castle Court House Museum and The Green in Dover add layers of historical depth, while the Ryves Holt House in Lewes, the oldest standing house in Delaware, offers a glimpse into colonial life.
Seasonal changes paint the park in vibrant colors: spring blooms with wildflowers, summer brings warmth and long days ideal for hiking the trails, autumn drenches the forests in golden hues, and winter wraps the landscapes in a serene silence. While there are no lakes, the Brandywine River flowing through the Woodlawn property provides scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Special events include ranger-led tours and reenactments that bring the park’s history to life. In the nearby artisan town of Wilmington, visitors can enjoy summer concerts and explore local boutiques and restaurants. For outdoor enthusiasts, local outfitters offer equipment and guides for exploring the park’s trails and waterways.
This historical park is a must-visit for those seeking to immerse themselves in America’s foundational story, set against a backdrop of diverse landscapes and significant historical sites.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.7
- Established year
- 2013
Top 3 Facts about First State National Historical Park
The Delaware Valley, part of this historical park, was a melting pot of cultures in the 1600s, including Dutch, Swedes, Finns, and English, with a tradition of tolerance and freedom of religion, even before William Penn’s arrival, spanning across a few hundred acres in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
In this verdant haven, 178 species, predominantly birds, thrive amid diverse habitats. Early morning and evening hours reveal mammals, from small rodents to larger creatures, while invertebrates abound in every nook. The Brandywine Valley unit is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a rich array of avian life. Native and non-native plant species coexist, with invasive species posing a challenge to the native ecosystem. Amphibians and reptiles add to the park’s biodiversity, making it a vibrant tapestry of wildlife and flora. Binoculars in hand, visitors can immerse themselves in this natural splendor.
Along the Brandywine River Valley, the landscape is defined by lush mature forests and the gentle flow of the Brandywine River, whose waters reflect the hues of the surrounding foliage. The valley’s terrain is marked by rolling hills and historic farmlands, with temperatures varying from crisp autumn mornings to warm summer afternoons. The area’s unique cultural and natural heritage is underscored by the preserved 18th-century landscapes and the oldest standing house in the region, set against a backdrop of serene natural beauty.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring for blooming wildflowers and the Cherry Blossom Festival. Plan a few days to explore trails and historic sites. Arrive early, park at designated lots, and stop by the visitor center for maps. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and pack meals as options are limited. Rest often and enjoy scenic overlooks.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof backpack. Bring a map, sunscreen, and a portable charger. For longer stays, include camping gear, a first aid kit, and navigation tools. Check the season for specific essentials like warm hats or insect repellent.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and properly dispose of trash to preserve their natural habits and the environment. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the flora and fauna as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and wildlife, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers.
Seasons
Experience spring’s bloom from March to May with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant events. Enjoy the History in Bloom Walking Tours in April, featuring historic gardens and scenic trails. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this season offers perfect weather for hiking and exploration.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid days, ideal for outdoor exploration. Enjoy living history reenactments and historic site tours. Don’t miss the Living History Weekend in July, featuring Civil War-era demonstrations and activities. Perfect for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Experience the vibrant fall colors of the Brandywine River Valley from September to November, with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp weather. Join park rangers on Saturday tours to explore historic sites, highlighting the region’s diverse colonial past. Don’t miss the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild Demonstrations, showcasing traditional crafts amidst the autumn foliage.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for a serene backdrop of snowflakes and temperatures around 30-40°F. Crisp air enhances historic sites like Old Swedes Church, though some areas may be closed due to weather. A tranquil, less crowded experience awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what First State National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest cities are Dover, Lewes, New Castle, and Wilmington, Delaware, as the park spans across these areas in Delaware and a part of Pennsylvania.
-
The Beaver Valley Unit Perimeter Trail is a good option for kids, as it is an easy 2.9-mile hike in Greenville, Delaware. This trail is part of the larger park that showcases Delaware’s historic significance, including its role in the formation of the United States since the 17th century. The trail’s easy terrain makes it suitable for families and younger hikers.
-
Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times, even when on trails. They are allowed in the Brandywine Valley unit and outdoor areas at New Castle and The Dover Green, but not inside historical buildings. Owners must also pick up all waste.
-
Yes, parking is free. The Brandywine Valley unit has four parking lots with no cost, but they cannot accommodate oversized vehicles like motorhomes or camper vans. Parking is available from sunrise to sunset.
-
At this park, you can visit the New Castle Courthouse where the Delaware Assembly voted to secede from England and Pennsylvania on June 15, 1776, and later became the state of Delaware. You can also see the site near Dover Green where Delaware ratified the US Constitution on December 7, 1787. Additionally, the park includes the Sheriff’s House and Jail in New Castle, where abolitionists Thomas Garrett and John Hunn were tried in 1848 for aiding runaway slaves on the Underground Railroad.