Top 15 Attractions and Activities in New Castle, Delaware

The town of New Castle in New Castle County, Delaware serves as an ideal location for visitors seeking a tranquil atmosphere while being centrally located to numerous attractions, services, and significant urban centers. Renowned for its historical importance, New Castle is a significant site both within the state and the wider context of United States history.

This captivating history is evident throughout the town, displayed in the form of Colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and museums dedicated to preserving that heritage. As a result of its rich narrative and historical importance, New Castle has been recognized as a National Landmark Historic Area.

The Colonial allure of New Castle, paired with its picturesque setting along the Delaware River, creates a charming ambiance for the approximately 5,000 residents, providing an enticing contrast to larger urban areas such as Wilmington, which is located merely ten kilometers away.

Within the town, visitors can explore a variety of dining establishments, cafes, boutique shops, museums, and larger shopping venues, including Penn Mart Shopping Center and Newport Crossing LLC. Additional attractions are readily available in Wilmington and the surrounding regions.

Below are 15 notable activities to partake in while in and around New Castle, Delaware.

1. Kick back in the natural surroundings of Battery Park

Battery Park is one of the more sought-after natural green spaces in New Castle. Here, visitors can unwind in a serene environment featuring stunning scenery across 25 acres along the Delaware River.

Facilities include playgrounds, picnic areas, and basketball courts, alongside the Battery Trail, a 3.7-mile walking and biking route that provides opportunities for wildlife observation.

2. Indulge in quality food and drink at Jessop’s Tavern

Jessop’s Tavern, located in New Castle, is not merely an eatery; it is housed within a historic building dating back to the 1700s. The dedicated staff here endeavors to offer an authentic Colonial experience, with much of the cuisine prepared from scratch on the premises.

The extensive menu features a selection of Colonial-inspired dishes, traditional British pub fare, and a variety of English, Dutch, Belgian, and Swedish offerings. Highlights include Dutch cheese, salads, crab cakes, roast duck, and the Pilgrim’s Feast.

An impressive assortment of international beers is also available for patrons.

3. The Old Dutch House Museum and Gardens

Constructed in the late 1600s, the Old Dutch House stands as the oldest building in New Castle and the second oldest in Delaware.

The property now operates as a museum and garden, welcoming visitors interested in exploring the lifestyle of middle-class families during the Colonial era. A tour through the property features furniture, household items, pewter dinnerware, textiles, and antique carpets from that period.

4. The Delaware Art Museum

Located in Wilmington, the Delaware Art Museum is home to the state’s most extensive collection of art, showcasing over 12,000 modern and historical artworks from across the country. An impressive outdoor sculpture park also contributes to the visitor experience.

5. New Castle Farmer’s Market

If you enjoy discovering local flavors and finding bargains, the longstanding New Castle Farmer’s Market offers an array of items to explore.

Numerous permanent and temporary vendors are established at this market, offering products such as Amish cuisine, Lancaster County meats, fresh produce, authentic Italian pizza, baked goods, and pretzels. An outdoor flea market operates as well.

6. Bellanca Airfield Museum

Within the historical Air Service Hangar in New Castle, one can visit the Bellanca Airfield Museum, which commemorates the aviation accomplishments of Guiseppe M. Bellanca. During your exploration, you will discover more about his aircraft and the pilots associated with them.

A media center situated on-site allows visitors to conduct their own research, watch educational videos, engage in flight simulator activities, or browse the available literature.

7. Russel W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge

Located along the Christina River in Wilmington, the Russel W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge is a picturesque area that attracts nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

This expansive 212-acre refuge encompasses primarily freshwater tidal marshes, hosting various wildlife species. Sightings of bald eagles, kingfishers, wood ducks, beavers, otters, and turtles may enhance your visit.

Several hiking trails, complete with scenic overlooks, are available, and the DuPont Environmental Education Center offers diverse exhibits and a 10-acre garden.

8. Spend a rainy day at Altitude Trampoline Park

In terms of entertainment centers, none in the New Castle vicinity compare to the Altitude Trampoline Park located in nearby Wilmington. While trampolines serve as the primary attraction, visitors can also engage in dodgeball and basketball games.

Additional modern amenities include a hurricane simulator, climbing walls, a foam pit, laser maze, and an assortment of video games.

9. Hit the greens at Frog Hollow Golf Club and Restaurant

For golf enthusiasts, the Frog Hollow Golf Club is the premier destination in the region. This 18-hole championship course is acclaimed as the top public golf course in Delaware.

The course is characterized by beautiful landscapes and diverse features, including bent grass tees, rolling greens, ponds, bunkers, and tall grasses, ensuring a challenging yet rewarding experience. Conclude your visit with a delightful meal at the club’s restaurant.

10. Admire Colonial architecture at the Amstel House

New Castle is steeped in history, making it home to numerous historical sites and museums, such as the Amstel House. This Georgian mansion, erected in the 1730s by affluent landowner Dr. John Finney, holds the distinction of being the first mansion built in Delaware and served as a significant residence during its time.

The striking brick structure is among the last remaining early Colonial buildings within the town. Guided tours provide visitors with insights into the original woodwork, open hearth, and traditional Dutch interior designs.

11. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Golden Apple Spa

When the excitement of exploring New Castle and its surroundings becomes overwhelming, consider taking a moment to unwind at the Golden Apple Spa. The spa offers a range of body and foot massages, including relaxation therapies, hot stone treatments, and deep tissue massages.

12. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts

The Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, situated in Wilmington, showcases a diverse array of local, national, and international artists, making it the sole contemporary art museum in the state. This center features seven galleries, 26 studios, an auditorium, and a museum shop where visitors can purchase reproductions of the exhibited artwork.

The principal mission of the center is to inspire public engagement with modern art and its significance within the community. Exhibitions are regularly updated to present new artists with the opportunity to share their work.

Past exhibitions have included themes such as Native Range, Amphibian Relationships, and Material World. Guided tours are offered for deeper insights.

13. Take in More Local History at the George Read II House and The New Castle Court House

The George Read II House, completed in 1804, encompasses 14,000 square feet and functions as a museum, showcasing a range of historic artifacts across its 22 rooms alongside a garden area. Meanwhile, the New Castle Court House currently serves as a state landmark and museum, housing various relics and archives associated with Delaware’s role as one of the original 13 colonies.

14. First State National Historic Park

Visitors to New Castle can gain insight into pivotal Colonial events, including the early European colonization, religious freedom acts, the Declaration of Independence, conservation efforts, and the Underground Railroad through a visit to the First State National Historic Park.