First State National Historical Park

Fall in Beaver Valley means crisp morning air, maybe a little frost on the grass, and definitely picturesque views throughout the park.
Famous as the First State to ratify the Constitution, Delaware was born out of a conflict among three world powers for dominance of the Delaware Valley. From this beginning, the region developed a distinct character that tolerated diversity in religion and national origin and valued independence.
Map showing location of park.
Front page of the Draft Brandywine Valley Trails Management Plan has an image of a group of youth hiking.
First State National Historical Park seeks public input on Draft Brandywine Valley Trail Plan Environmental Assessment July 2 – August 1, 2024
The National Park Service (NPS) invites public input from July 2 to August 1, 2024, on a draft Trail Plan for First State National Historical Park’s Brandywine Valley unit. Public input will help shape the trail plan, which will establish a cohesive and sustainable trail network for the Brandywine Valley unit. 
Secretary Deb Haaland and Senator Tom Carper cut a ribbon with Superintendent Joshua Boles, Ranger Lorin Diaz, Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long, and Mayor Valerie Leary
First State National Historical Park opens its first welcome center
First State National Historical Park open's the park’s first welcome center at the Sheriff’s House, located in New Castle. The center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
Red, yellow, and green leaves lay on the grass in front of a colonial building.
Photo by NPS Photo
A view of the front of the John Dickinson House on the Plantation.
Photo by NPS Photo
A brick bath leads to a door of an old church surrounded by vegetation.
Photo by NPS Pohto
Pews line the side of the room leading to the English style court room.
Photo by NPS Photo
Rolling agricultural hills on a bright sunny day.
Photo by NPS Photo
A replica of the original Kalmar Nyckel ship sails by the monument at Fort Christina.
Photo by NPS Photo