Picture of Wilmington State Parks

Wilmington State Parks


Rockford Park Vehicle Traffic Closure

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the City of Wilmington announced that Rockford Park will be closed to vehicular traffic, for the installation of a new traffic pattern around the park. The project will improve safe bike and pedestrian access, and parking at the park, which has become an issue due to increased visitation.

The date for the start of the construction is still pending, and will be posted as soon as the work is scheduled to start.

The reroute map is available to download here.

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

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, June 4, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 6/4/2023 1:00:00 PM 6/4/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, June 11, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 6/11/2023 1:00:00 PM 6/11/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Heights and Flights at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, June 15, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 6/15/2023 10:00:00 AM 6/15/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Heights and Flights at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, June 18, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 6/18/2023 1:00:00 PM 6/18/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Feathers Flying at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, June 22, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 6/22/2023 10:00:00 AM 6/22/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Feathers Flying at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, June 25, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 6/25/2023 1:00:00 PM 6/25/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Bird Nerds at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, June 29, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 6/29/2023 10:00:00 AM 6/29/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Bird Nerds at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, July 2, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 7/2/2023 1:00:00 PM 7/2/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, July 9, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 7/9/2023 1:00:00 PM 7/9/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Fleeting Fish at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, July 13, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 7/13/2023 10:00:00 AM 7/13/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Fleeting Fish at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, July 16, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 7/16/2023 1:00:00 PM 7/16/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Bouncing Bugs at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, July 20, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 7/20/2023 10:00:00 AM 7/20/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Bouncing Bugs at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, July 23, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 7/23/2023 1:00:00 PM 7/23/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Fluttering Butterflies at 18th Street Playground

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 7/26/2023 10:00:00 AM 7/26/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Fluttering Butterflies at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, July 30, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 7/30/2023 1:00:00 PM 7/30/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Leaping Lizards at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, August 3, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 8/3/2023 10:00:00 AM 8/3/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Leaping Lizards at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, August 6, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 8/6/2023 1:00:00 PM 8/6/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Flight at Night at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, August 10, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 8/10/2023 10:00:00 AM 8/10/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Flight at Night at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, August 13, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 8/13/2023 1:00:00 PM 8/13/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Nature On The Go: Gliding and Hiding at 18th Street Playground

Thursday, August 17, 2023

10:00 AM

Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park.

Add to Calendar 8/17/2023 10:00:00 AM 8/17/2023 11:30:00 AM America/New_York Nature On The Go: Gliding and Hiding at 18th Street Playground Nature on the Go is a weekly program in which we explore the different aspects of our natural world, and provide take-home experiences that encourage further investigation of what's around us. This year's theme is Things with Wings. Thursday programs meet at 18th Street Playground, Brandywine Park. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Viewing

Sunday, August 20, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 8/20/2023 1:00:00 PM 8/20/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Viewing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

Rockford Tower Closing

Sunday, August 27, 2023

1:00 PM

The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather.

Add to Calendar 8/27/2023 1:00:00 PM 8/27/2023 3:00:00 PM America/New_York Rockford Tower Closing The Rockford Tower opens to the public on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm. Climb to the top of this historic tower and glimpse a beautiful view of Wilmington. Note: Tower may close if there is inclement weather. Wilmington

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