All historic houses to visit in Delaware

Step into the past at 27 historic houses in Delaware. These preserved homes offer a glimpse into the lives of notable figures and everyday people from different eras.

Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in Delaware:

  1. WWinterthur Museum, Garden & Library1

    WWinterthur Museum, Garden & Library

     Greenville, DE
    The Winterthur Museum and Country Estate is a unique combination of a mansion, botanical garden, arboretum, and museum. It is located in Winterthur, Delaware, and offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The estate is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region, and it provides a fascinating insight into the life and interests of its former resident, Henry Francis du Pont.
  2. Delaware Legislative Hall2

    Delaware Legislative Hall

     Dover, DE
    The Delaware Legislative Hall, situated in the state capital city of Dover on Legislative Avenue, serves as the state capitol building of Delaware. This significant structure houses the chambers and offices of the Delaware General Assembly, making it a central hub for the state's legislative activities.
  3. Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library3

    Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library

     Winterthur, DE
    The Winterthur Museum and Country Estate is a unique combination of a mansion, botanical garden, arboretum, and museum. It is located in Winterthur, Delaware, and offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The estate covers a vast area of 979 acres, providing ample space for exploration and discovery.
  4. New Castle Court House Museum4

    New Castle Court House Museum

     New Castle, DE
    The New Castle Court House Museum holds a unique geographical significance. It is situated at the center of a circle with a 12-mile radius, which defines most of the border between the states of Delaware and Pennsylvania, as well as parts of the borders between Delaware and New Jersey and Maryland. This unique positioning makes the museum a focal point of regional history and geography.
  5. Delaware Historical Society5

    Delaware Historical Society

     Wilmington, DE
    The Delaware Historical Society, founded in 1864, has grown into a significant statewide historical institution. It boasts several buildings, including the Old Town Hall and the Delaware History Museum in Wilmington, and the historic Read House & Gardens in New Castle. These sites offer a rich insight into the history and culture of Delaware, making them a worthwhile visit for tourists interested in history.
  6. Johnson Victrola Museum6

    Johnson Victrola Museum

     Dover, DE
    First State Heritage Park is open to visitors all year round. Special tours of the various sites within the park are conducted on the first Saturday of each month. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the sites within the park.
  7. John Dickinson Plantation7

    John Dickinson Plantation

     Dover, DE
    The John Dickinson House, also known as Poplar Hall, is a National Historic Landmark. It is situated on the John Dickinson Plantation in Kent County, Delaware, just 5 miles south of Dover. This historic site was the boyhood home of Founding Father John Dickinson, a key figure in the formation of the United States.
  8. Old Swedes Historic Site8

    Old Swedes Historic Site

     Wilmington, DE
    The Holy Trinity Church, also known as Old Swedes, is a historic site located at East 7th and Church Street in Wilmington, Delaware. The church was consecrated on Trinity Sunday, June 4, 1699, by a predominantly Swedish congregation that was formerly part of the colony of New Sweden. This makes it a significant part of the history of Swedish settlement in the United States.
  9. Rockwood Museum and Park9

    Rockwood Museum and Park

     Wilmington, DE
    Rockwood is a historic English-style country estate and museum situated in Wilmington, Delaware. The estate was constructed between 1851 and 1854 by Joseph Shipley, a prominent banker of the time. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to the Rural Gothic Revival Architecture, making it a significant site for those interested in history and architecture.
  10. Amstel House Museum10

    Amstel House Museum

     New Castle, DE
    The Amstel House, also known as the Dr. Finney House, is a preserved building located in New Castle, Delaware, United States. This historic building was constructed in the 1730s and stands as a testament to the architectural style of that period. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the history of New Castle and its architectural heritage.
  11. Gov. Ross Mansion11

    Gov. Ross Mansion

     Seaford, DE
    The Gov. William H. Ross House, also known as The Ross Mansion, is a historic home located near Seaford, Sussex County, Delaware. This two-story, brick mansion was built in 1859 and is designed in an 'H'-shape. The mansion is a representation of the Italianate style and features a three-story tower in the central space. The interior of the mansion retains its original plaster mouldings, Victorian trim, doors, and original inside shutters.
  12. Robinson House12

    Robinson House

     Claymont, DE
    The Robinson House, a historic guest house, is situated at the intersection of Naamans Road (Delaware Route 92) and The Kings Highway (now U.S. Route 13, Philadelphia Pike) in Claymont, Delaware, in the United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
  13. Hale-Byrnes House13

    Hale-Byrnes House

     Newark, DE
    The Hale-Byrnes House is a significant historical site located at 606 Stanton-Christiana Road, Stanton, New Castle County, Delaware. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
  14. Auburn Valley State Park14

    Auburn Valley State Park

     Hockessin, DE
    Covering approximately 360 acres, Auburn Valley State Park offers several miles of trails open for walking and biking. This includes a 1.2 mile paved loop, providing a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore the park's natural beauty and historical sites. The park's extensive trail system caters to both casual walkers and avid bikers.
  15. First State Heritage Park15

    First State Heritage Park

     Dover, DE
    First State Heritage Park, located in Dover, Kent County, Delaware, is a unique urban park that links various historic and cultural sites. It is the first of its kind in Delaware, offering a unique experience for visitors who are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the state. The park is a partnership of state and city agencies under the leadership of Delaware State Parks.
  16. Parson Thorne Mansion16

    Parson Thorne Mansion

     Milford, DE
    The Parson Thorne Mansion, also known as Silver Hill, is a historic mansion situated in Milford, Kent County, Delaware. This mansion is a significant part of the local history and offers a glimpse into the architectural style and lifestyle of the past.
  17. Old Town Hall17

    Old Town Hall

     Wilmington, DE
    The Old Town Hall is a significant historical site located in Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware. This historic town hall has been a part of the city's history since its construction in 1798. It's a large two-story brick building designed in a late-Georgian / early-Federal style, which adds to its historical charm.
  18. Iron Hill Science Center18

    Iron Hill Science Center

     Newark, DE
    The Iron Hill Museum, originally known as Iron Hill School No. 112C, is a historic one-room school building situated near Newark in New Castle County, Delaware. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the history of education in the region.
  19. Biggs Museum of American Art19

    Biggs Museum of American Art

     Dover, DE
    First State Heritage Park is open to visitors all year round. To enhance the visitor experience, special tours of the sites are organized on the first Saturday of each month. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the sites within the park.
  20. Old First Presbyterian Church20

    Old First Presbyterian Church

     Wilmington, DE
    The Old First Presbyterian Church of Wilmington is a historic Presbyterian church situated on West Street on Brandywine Park Drive in Wilmington, New Castle County, Delaware. This church, built in 1740, has a rich history and is a significant landmark in the area. It's a one-story brick structure measuring 30 feet by 40 feet and features a gambrel roof. The church was originally located on the east side of Wilmington's Market Street between 9th and 10th Streets.
  21. Delaware Governor's Mansion (woodburn)21

    Delaware Governor's Mansion (woodburn)

     Dover, DE
    The Delaware Governor's Mansion, also known as Woodburn or Governor's House, is the official residence of the governor of Delaware and the governor's family. It is located in Dover and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places as "Governor's House" since 1972. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the state's history and the lives of its governors.
  22. Read House & Gardens22

    Read House & Gardens

     New Castle, DE
    The Read House & Gardens is a historic house museum located at 42 The Strand in New Castle, Delaware. This house was built between 1797 and 1804 for George Read, Jr. and was considered the largest and most sophisticated residence in the state at the time. It is a significant early example of high-style Federal period architecture.
  23. Nemours Estate23

    Nemours Estate

     Wilmington, DE
    The Nemours Estate is a sprawling 200-acre country estate located in Wilmington, Delaware, United States. The estate features a French neoclassical mansion and jardin à la française formal gardens, offering a unique blend of architectural and natural beauty. The mansion, built to resemble a French château, is a testament to the grandeur of the past, while the meticulously maintained gardens provide a tranquil retreat.
  24. Dutch House Museum24

    Dutch House Museum

     New Castle, DE
    The Dutch House, located in New Castle, Delaware, is a significant historical site dating back to the late 17th century. It is recognized as one of the oldest houses in the state, offering a unique glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of the region. The house's age and historical significance make it a noteworthy destination for those interested in exploring Delaware's past.
  25. Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum25

    Indian River Life-Saving Station Museum

     Rehoboth Beach, DE
    The Indian River Life-Saving Station, located at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, was established in 1876. Its primary purpose was to rescue mariners who were shipwrecked along the Delaware coast. This station was a part of the United States Life-Saving Service, a government organization dedicated to saving the lives of shipwrecked mariners and passengers.
  26. The Old State House26

    The Old State House

     Dover, DE
    The Delaware Legislative Hall, the state capitol building of Delaware, is situated in the capital city of Dover on Legislative Avenue. This historic building is home to the chambers and offices of the Delaware General Assembly. It's a significant landmark that showcases the state's political history and architectural grandeur.
  27. 27

    Delaware State Police Museum

     Dover, DE
    Find something about history of Delaware state police, their vehicles, uniforms, patches and more. Recommended also for kids.