Rockwood Park & Museum

Joseph Shipley, a Quaker merchant banker, built Rockwood between 1851 and 1854. Its Gothic Revival architecture and enchanting landscape were designed to reflect the beauty of an English country estate.

The museum reflects the way the Bringhurst family, descendants of Shipley, lived during the turn of the 20th century.

  1. Wed Sep. 23

    Rockwood Park Family Stroll Scavenger Hunt Enjoy the beauty of Rockwood Park and Museum and the Power of Nature. Family based scavenger hunt that provides participants the opportunity to explore different parts of the park, the existing plantings, and the history of the existing structures. Great opportunity for parents with children participating in virtual education to supplement their child's learning.Social distancing and face masks required, along with temperature checks and a brief COVID form. Please meet your tour guide at the Visitor's Entrance. Pre-Registration is required for this activity. Confirmation email prior to the activity will be sent to confirm attendance. Please call Rockwood for additional information, 302-761-4340.

  2. Sat Sep. 26

    Rockwood's Gentleman's House and Garden Tour History lovers will enjoy a garden walk as your guide shares the story behind the building of Rockwood Mansion and Gardens. Topics covered include architecture of the mansion, the history of Joseph Shipley's family, and the garden's unique design. Please visit Rockwood.org to view a short video about the history of Rockwood. Social distancing will be in practice during the tour. Masks are required. Fee: 3.00 in county; 6.00 out of county. Please meet your tour guide in the courtyard of the Visitor's Entrance. Saturdays, 10:00 a.m., September 26. Please call Rockwood for information at 302-761-4340. Online registration and payment required. Participants are asked to bring a folding chair.

  3. Sat Sep. 26

    Rockwood's Outdoor Art in the Park Create art in the outdoors at Rockwood Park! Learn introductory Plein Air techniques using the materials you have at hand. Plein Air is a French term meaning "out of doors" and refers to the practice of creating entire finished pictures outside. Participants are asked to bring their own materials (drawing, watercolors, inks and surface to draw on) and chair. All levels welcome. Meet in the Mansion's Courtyard by the Visitor's Entrance to start the class. Social distancing will be in practice during the tour. Face masks are required. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED CLASS SIZE LIMITED TO 10 $5 PER PERSON IN COUNTY; $10 OUT OF COUNTY

  4. Sat Sep. 26

    Walking Paranormal Experience of Rockwood Park SOLD OUT A walking investigation using sophisticated paranormal equipment as we walk the several locations in Rockwood Park. The program is strictly outside and we will not be entering any buildings. Meet at the Courtyard of Rockwood Museum. Individuals attending must be able to traverse the paths and trails of Rockwood Park. Must wear a face mask and complete a Covid Self Examination at start of tour. Call (302) 761-4340 for information. Ages 14-Adults.

  5. Sun Sep. 27

    Drawing and Nature Walk in Rockwood Park Bring any sized sketch pad and pencil for an enjoyable creative afternoon in the park. Begin with an outdoor sketching lesson with drawing instructor, Karen Berstler. Take a nature walk and learn about Rockwood Park historical facts, designs and creators. Stop at various locations to sketch the garden's beauty. Karen will be there to answer any sketching questions during the walk. Leave with the beginnings of your very own nature book! Meet in the Mansion's Courtyard by the Visitor's Entrance to start the class. Social distancing will be in practice during the tour. Face masks are required. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED TOUR LIMITED TO 10
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Contact Us

  1. Rockwood Park & Museum

    Physical Address
    4651 Washington St. Extension
    Wilmington, DE 19809

    Mailing Address
    610 Shipley Road
    Wilmington, DE 19809

    Phone: (302) 761-4340

  2. Facility Rentals

    Mansion, Garden, and Conservatory Rentals
    Email
    Phone: (302) 761-4340
    More Information

National Register of Historic Places logo

National Register of Historic Places, Rockwood, New Castle County, Delaware, National Register #76000579.

Rockwood Park is a Certified Wildlife Habitat Certified by the National Wildlife Federation
Rockwood Park Preservation Society Logo

Rockwood Park & Museum is committed to our community and we are doing our part to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are suspending all museum tours and closing the Bringhurst Boutique until further notice.  

Rockwood Park will remain open so you may come and enjoy the fresh air. 

We invite you to take a virtual tour of Rockwood using our audio tour from home, or as you stroll through the park using the  izi.Travel app available in the Apple and Google stores.

Accessibility

Although the west wing of the mansion is wheelchair accessible including accessible restrooms, please note that only a limited portion of the museum is wheelchair accessible. The main museum rooms are only accessible by stairs.