Picture of Wilmington State Parks

Wilmington State Parks


We hosted a public meeting on the conceptual redesign of H. FLETCHER BROWN PARK on 6/26/2024. The slides can be found here. Please provide comments and questions by using the online form open through 7/10/2024.

Find Your Adventure at Wilmington State Parks

Rockford Tower at Wilmington State Parks offers great views of the city of Wilmington, DE

Explore Rockford Park

Climb to the top of 100-year-old Rockford Tower for a spectacular view of the city. Pack a picnic and relax on the lawn, or bring your dogs to enjoy the dog park.

The Brandywine River flows beneath a historic Wilmington bridge at Wilmington State Parks

Experience the Brandywine River

Walk the river’s edge in Brandywine Park, stop and smell the roses in the Jasper Crane Rose Garden, and enjoy views of the Wilmington skyline from the swinging bridge. You’ll witness the development of Wilmington State Parks as the recreational hub for the city of Wilmington.

African-American Medal of Honor Memorial at Wilmington State Parks

Witness History

Drive along the streets of Wilmington to appreciate the cultural history preserved in Wilmington State Parks. You can pay your respects at the African-American Medal of Honor Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, or the Winged Victory Monument.

The Sugar Bowl at Wilmington State Parks

Visit the Sugar Bowl

The Sugar Bowl was constructed in 1902 on the edge of a cliff to offer picturesque views of the Brandywine River. Today, the observatory has been restored and is used for community events and free summer concerts. Stop by to see the view, watch migrating birds, or to enjoy a concert.

About the Park

Right in the heart of the city, Wilmington State Parks offer recreation along the Brandywine River. Brandywine, Rockford and H. Fletcher Brown parks along with Kentmere Parkway and the Hobbs Property lie under this state park umbrella. The centerpiece, Brandywine River runs through the park and serves as a source of drinking water and recreation for the city and spawning grounds for shad, which were once an important food source to the Lenapes and early European settlers. The Jasper Crane Rose Garden and Josephine Fountain offer gorgeous views within an urban setting. History lives on in Rockford Tower and the Sugar Bowl, as well as memorials that honor those who gave their lives in service to their country and monuments that serve as gathering places. Historic bridges connect the parks to the surrounding communities. Tennis courts, ball fields and fitness stations provide exercise opportunities, and the park also serves as the perfect place for festivals, concerts and picnics.

About Wilmington State Parks

Find recreation, history, education, and sports and community events right in the heart of Wilmington. These parks are the perfect place to relax, hike, picnic, or just enjoy the beauty of the Brandywine River.

The Van Buren Street bridge, built in 1906

While certain portions of Wilmington State Parks are owned by the City of Wilmington, Delaware State Park rules and regulations apply to all areas.

Wilmington State Parks Sites

Josephine fountain is located at Brandywine Park.

Brandywine Park

The park is home to the Brandywine Zoo. The iconic Sugar Bowl, constructed in 1902, was recently restored, thanks to efforts by Friends of Wilmington Parks. Brandywine Park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Located on North Park Drive

Rockford Tower

Rockford Park

The 100-year-old Rockford Tower is the centerpiece of this park. The historic stone water tower is located amid rolling hills and vistas offering beautiful views of the city.

Located at 2000 Lookout Drive

race street bridge

H. Fletcher Brown

Meet a friend, eat lunch or stroll through this intimate park adjacent to Brandywine Park. An overlook provides scenic views of the Brandywine River and the historic millrace that provides much of Wilmington's water supply.

Located at the corner of South Park Drive and N. King St.

Upcoming Events


There are currently no programs scheduled at this location


Photo of "The Apprentice" at H. Fletcher Brown park by Ethelred unraed [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], from Wikimedia Commons