Everything you need to see, do, and eat during a visit to New Castle, Delaware.
If you’re looking for a destination that blends history, scenic beauty, and small-town charm, New Castle, Delaware, should be on your list. Just a short drive from major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore, this town tucked along the banks of the Delaware River feels like stepping into another century. New Castle is full of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and peaceful waterfront views. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old homes, grabbing a bite at a cozy café, or enjoying a stroll along the Delaware River, New Castle offers a relaxing and enriching getaway for travelers who love authentic experiences and hidden gems.
The New Castle Visitor Center is located at The Arsenal (30 Market Street). They can provide you with further information about the town or about tours that are going on during your visit.
Below is a list of things to do and see in New Castle, Delaware:
New Castle Court House Museum / First State National Historical Park
In New Castle, the First State National Historical Park includes the beautifully maintained historic buildings, like the New Castle Court House Museum. Built in 1732, the New Castle Court House Museum previously served as Delaware’s first court and state capitol. Here in 1776, New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties declared their independence from both Pennsylvania and British rule, creating the state of Delaware.
The New Castle Court House Museum offers tours daily; check their website for up-to-date times.
Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green & Cemetery
No visit to New Castle is complete without a quiet walk around Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green. It is one of the most peaceful and historically rich spots in town. Established in 1689, this beautiful brick church stands beside the town’s colonial green with its tall steeple and arched windows framed by ancient trees.
Behind the church lies its historic cemetery, a quiet resting place shaded by old oaks and filled with centuries-old headstones—many belonging to Revolutionary War soldiers, prominent colonial families, and early residents of New Castle.
New Castle’s Old Library Museum
While currently closed to the public, New Castle’s Old Library Museum is gorgeous from the outside and still worth a stop to view. Built in 1892 as a subscription library, it eventually became a free library in the 1940s. The building is octagonal and blends Queen Anne and Colonial Revival architectural styles.
Amstel House
The Amstel House, also known as the Dr. Finney House, is one of the state’s finest and earliest surviving Georgian residences, built around 1738 by Dr. John Finney. Throughout its history, the Amstel House was connected to political and social elites. Governor Nicholas Van Dyke rented and lived in the house in the late 1700s; it was here that George Washington attended the wedding of Van Dyke’s daughter Ann in 1784. House tours are available on certain days. For more information, visit the visitor center. Behind the house are the gardens, which are free and open daily.
Read House & Gardens
A stunning testament to Federal-period aspirations and craftsmanship, the Read House was built between 1797 and 1804 for George Read II, the son of Delaware statesman and Declaration signer George Read Sr. This 14,000 sq ft mansion, a National Historical Landmark, is open to the public for tours on select days. The gardens are open daily from dawn until dusk, year-round, for free.
Packet Alley
In the early 19th century, Packet Alley was a bustling transfer point. Nestled between 23 and 25 The Strand, Packet Alley with its historic Ivory Soap ghost sign, stretches one block from the historic riverfront (“The Strand”) down to the site of a former wharf.
In the late 1700s and early 1800s, packet boats carrying mail and passengers from Philadelphia docked at Packet Alley. Travelers then switched to stagecoaches heading south to Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and beyond.
Today, you can visit Packet Alley with its historic Ivory Soap sign and take in the views of the river while taking photos.
Lunch at Jessop’s Tavern & Colonial Restaurant
Jessop’s Tavern occupies a structure built in 1674, long before the Declaration of Independence. The structure was originally a residence and was used as a barrel-making workshop by cooper Abraham Jessop. Today, the interior of the restaurant features plank floors, exposed beams, and period touches.
Jessop’s Tavern features English pub classics and old American dishes. The food is delicious and the staff were friendly. This spot is popular, and we did have to wait for a table for a late lunch.
Jessop’s Tavern has one of Delaware’s most extensive beer selections with over 300 Belgian beer bottles and 20 Belgian draft taps.
Battery Park
Battery Park sits where Delaware Street meets the Delaware River, which was once the landing place of William Penn himself. The park is known for its peaceful ambiance, scenic promenade, and family fun.
