Situated on Pea Patch Island in the middle of the Delaware River, Fort Delaware was initially constructed in the mid-1800s to protect Wilmington and Philadelphia from enemy attack. Originally built to protect the ports of Wilmington and Philadelphia, Pea Patch Island also became a Union prison camp during the Civil War, housing up to as many as 12,595 Confederate prisoners of war at one time.

When you visit, you’ll see what was considered to be among the most state-of-the-art forts in the nation when it was completed. Within the walls of Fort Delaware you can:

• See what life was like during the Civil War. You’ll see first-person interpreters dressed in period clothing and gain an understanding of their experiences.
• Walk the Prison Camp Trail. Along this trail, you’ll see the entrance to the mine casemate that controlled the mines that were deployed in the river in the late 1800s and early 1900s. You can also visit the Pea Patch Heronry –  one of the largest mixed species nest colony for herons, egrets, and ibis in the eastern United States. Other nesters that can be found on the island include osprey and bald eagles.
• Experience the Paranormal. Fort Delaware is well-known for “ghostly” activity and has been featured on Ghost Hunters and other television shows. Paranormal tours are offered in the fall. Learn more.

If you’re following the Delaware History Trail, Fort Delaware is one of the locations on it! 

Logistics:
Access to Pea Patch Island and Fort Delaware is by ferry only. The ticket office and ferry dock are located at 45 Clinton Street in Delaware City.

Advance ferry tickets are available online. Click to reserve your tickets.

Schedule:

• Saturday and Sunday Only: April 27 through June 16, 2024.
• Wednesday thru Sunday: June 19th through September 1, 2024
• Saturday and Sunday Only: September 7 through September 22, 2024.
• Confirm Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day with DE State Parks

Admission:
Adults (13 and over):  $12
Children Ages 2 – 12:  $7
Children under 2:  Free
Seniors (62 +) and Military:  $11
Adult groups (most age 13+):  $11
Youth groups:  (most under age 13) $7
Please visit the park website to verify current pricing

Getting Here:
Address: 45 Clinton St., Delaware City, DE 19706
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