Pea Patch Island · Delaware River

Fort Delaware

A ferry ride, a historic island fort and an afternoon immersed in Delaware’s Civil War story.

Take the ferry from Delaware City

Reach Pea Patch Island by the park’s seasonal ferry from the Delaware City waterfront at Battery Park. Check current operating dates, ticket availability and return departures before traveling—service is not year-round.

Official ferry tickets & park information

Explore the island fortress

Visit the fort’s courtyard and historic spaces, and check the park calendar for living-history demonstrations and guided programs. Fort Delaware served as a coastal-defense installation and a Civil War prison; its story includes both military life and the people held here.

History from Delaware Public Archives

A white passenger ferry beyond the waterfront railing in Delaware City — The ferry at the Delaware City waterfrontPhoto supplied by Main Street

Visitors crossing the bridge beside Fort Delaware’s stone walls and moat — Crossing the moat into Fort DelawarePhoto supplied by Main Street

Within the fort’s walls

Fort Delaware’s grassy courtyard enclosed by historic red-brick buildings — Inside the island fortressPhoto supplied by Main Street

Evening light on Fort Delaware’s stone walls reflected in the moat — Fort Delaware reflected in its moatPhoto supplied by Main Street

Leave time for an island afternoon

Bring water and plan around the return ferry. For a picnic, confirm current food and picnic guidance with the park before packing. Check accessibility arrangements, weather updates and any closures directly with park staff.

Fort Delaware visitor brochure Park contact: (302) 834-7941