Brandywine Park, Wilmington

Brandywine Park is the historic green heart of Wilmington, stretching along both banks of the Brandywine River for nearly a mile. Founded in 1886 as the city’s first public park, it was shaped by Samuel Canby in collaboration with famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, whose influence is felt in the park’s naturalistic layout of winding trails, sweeping lawns, and wooded banks. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976, Brandywine Park stands today as the flagship of Wilmington State Parks and a living testament to the 19th-century vision of urban natural sanctuaries.

The park spans approximately 178 acres and combines preserved wilderness, open meadows, and formal gardens with more structured recreational amenities. Visitors can enjoy serene walks or jogs along the river, with scenic overlooks and quiet corners like the Josephine Fountain, Jasper Crane Rose Garden, and the charming Sugar Bowl pavilion. Seasonal blooms-particularly the dazzling cherry blossoms in spring-add vibrant color to the peaceful setting, making the park a beloved destination year-round.

In addition to its landscaped beauty, Brandywine Park also embraces active recreation. Abessinio Stadium hosts local sporting events, while the playgrounds and athletic fields welcome families and fitness enthusiasts alike. The park is also home to the Brandywine Zoo, Delaware’s only zoological park, which has occupied a 4.75-acre section of the grounds since 1905. Throughout the year, the park bustles with joggers, picnickers, birdwatchers, and fishermen, creating a dynamic blend of activity within a naturally restorative space.

Brandywine Park continues to serve as a vital civic space where history, community, and landscape meet. From its 18th Street monuments to its ever-changing flora, the park invites reflection, play, and connection-a tranquil refuge carved into the flow of city life.