9 Places In Delaware Where You Can Step Back Into Colonial America
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Kim Magaraci
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Delaware was technically the first state to join the Union, and it was one of the earliest colonies to be established in the “New World.” We’ve got such a rich history, and there are several institutions scattered throughout the state that help tell the story of Delaware. Visit these places to feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the days when our country was just getting started.
The Zwaanendael Museum takes a look at the history of Delaware through the first European colonists - the Dutch. Learn the story of the first town in the first state, how the Dutch settlers interacted with the native Americans, and see one of the strangest displays in the state: a preserved mermaid.
Address: 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE
Address: 102 Kings Highway, Lewes, DE
Jessop's Tavern in the only place in the state that serves up colonial meals in a themed restaurant. Eat like Benjamin Franklin did in this historic, nearly 300 year old building located in old New Castle.
Address: 114 Delaware Street, New Castle, DE
Address: 114 Delaware Street, New Castle, DE
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The New Castle Courthouse was built in 1732 and was the center of Delaware politics for centuries. Here is where Delaware delcared independence - both from Pennsylvania and from England. You can tour the New Castle Courthouse Museum Tuesday through Sunday.
Address: 211 Delaware St., New Castle, DE 19720
Address: 211 Delaware St., New Castle, DE 19720
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Historic Odessa is a little village full of houses and historic sites. You can dine in an 18th century tavern at Cantwell's Tavern, or tour the homes on certain nights of the week. Keep an eye on the historic Odessa foundation website for information and location of upcoming events.
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The Kalmar Nyckel is a replica of the first ship to bring European settlers to Delaware, and you can now sail aboard to learn about the historic journey! The Kalmar Nyckel offers floating educational tours as well as family fun events, like pirate voyages. You can find the ship's sailing schedule on the Kalmar Nyckel's calendar.
It's always interesting to tour this plantation! It was the home of founding father John Dickinson, who was called the "Penman of the Revolution." Stroll these historic grounds on a nice fall day to learn a ton about the founding of our country.
Address: 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover, DE 19901
Address: 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover, DE 19901
Visit the Dover Green to see the first permanent capitol building in the state. This historic giant of a building was finished in 1791, and was used by the General Assembly until 1933! Now, you can visit this historic spot on The Green in Dover. It's open for tours Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m, and on Sunday afternoons from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The John Bell house is not far from the State House, so plan a walking tour of the area by stopping by here, first. It is an interpretive center for First State Heritage Park and it is the oldest wooden structure on The Green.
Address: 43 The Green, Dover, DE
Address: 43 The Green, Dover, DE
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Visit the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center to find more colonial events occurring in the Delaware. You'll also find interactive and seasonal exhibits that explain Delaware's history in the most fascinating way. There's always something going on in this "boundless urban park," so be sure to visit the First State Heritage Park website for more information on the park's events.
Delaware’s history is fascinating – and it goes so far beyond colonial times! Did you know about these 9 Insane Things That Happened In Delaware You Won’t Find in History Books? Read about them now!
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