Fort Delaware State Park and Pea Patch Island
Fort Delaware State Park and Pea Patch Island
History

Civil War–era fort on a Delaware River island — covers prisoner-of-war history, Civil War military operations, and mid-Atlantic geography.

What families say
Getting there is part of the fun: a short ferry ride to the island (bring sunscreen and bug spray, especially near the picnic area) followed by a shuttle to the fort itself. Kids and history buffs alike enjoy the costumed actors, live cannon-firing demonstrations, and wildlife spotting—osprey, snapping turtles, muskrats, and deer tracks all get mentioned. Plan for most of a day, and note that the on-island shop may not be open early in the season; otherwise, families consistently praise the staff's knowledge and the well-preserved, hands-on history experience.
Ages 818
HistorySocial StudiesGeography
Delaware City, DE 19706
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