Delaware is a small state, but Big on history. The state has a wide array of historic sites that span from the colonial era, the revolutionary war, the civil war era, and beyond. Every year, numerous visitors flock to this state purely to explore its wealth of history. If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful state of Delaware, here are the top historical sites to add to your itinerary.
1. First State Heritage Park
Located in Dover, the First State Heritage Park is a unique historical site that tells the story of Delaware’s history and culture. The park spans over 25 acres and has various historical buildings from different periods. Visitors can take part in guided tours, enjoy exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and watch reenactments. All of these activities are aimed at providing visitors with an excellent opportunity to learn more about Delaware’s rich history.
2. Brandywine Battlefield
The Brandywine Battlefield is situated in Chadds Ford and was a historic battleground during the American Revolution. The area is significant because it’s where the Continental Army lost to the British Army under General William Howe. Visitors can explore the park by guided tours, walking tours, and audio tours. An on-site museum displays an extensive collection of artifacts from the Revolutionary War.
3. Fort Christina National Historic Site
Located in Wilmington, the Fort Christina National Historic Site was where the first permanent Swedish settlement in America was established in 1638. Visitors can take part in guided tours and explore the historic site. The park features a replica of the original Swedish fort, and visitors can witness reenactments of life during the early colonial period.
4. The Dover Green
The Dover Green is a historic park located in the heart of Dover and serves as a stage for outdoor events. Throughout the year, visitors can take part in numerous festivals and events, including the annual Delaware Pride Parade, the Old Dover Days, and the Dover Art Walk. The park is also home to numerous historic monuments, including the Delaware Confederate Monument.
5. John Dickinson Plantation
The John Dickinson Plantation in Dover is an 18th-century home that was once the home of John Dickinson, a renowned writer, and politician. The plantation spans over 15 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds, and it features a restored farmhouse that dates back to 1739. Visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive exhibitions, tours, and programs.
6. Delaware Art Museum
The Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington is home to over 12,000 works of art, including premier collections of American art and illustrations. The museum also has a vast collection of English pre-Raphaelite art, including works by Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Edward Burne-Jones.
7. New Castle
New Castle is a small town located on the banks of the Delaware River. It’s a well-preserved colonial town with numerous historic buildings and landmarks. Visitors can explore the town by taking part in historic walking tours that showcase the town’s colonial-era architecture. New Castle is home to numerous historic sites, including the New Castle Court House Museum, the Amstel House, and the Old Town Hall.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or not, Delaware offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about America’s rich history. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Delaware to learn more about the state’s colonial history, revolutionary war battles, and much more. These are just a handful of the most popular and informative historic sites in Delaware, so don’t hesitate to add them to your itinerary.