June 16 , 2010
Vol. 40, No. 209

For more information contact Laura Lee or Becky Webb, Fort Delaware State Park, 302- 834-7941; or Necia Beck, Delaware State Parks, 302-739-9175 or necia.beck@state.de.us

Fort Delaware State Park now open Wednesday through Sunday

With the official start of summer just days away, Fort Delaware’s days of operation have been extended to five days per week. Beginning Wednesday, June 16 and through Sunday, Sept. 5, the fort will be open for visitors on Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. each day.  The fort will also be open on July 5 and September 6 in honor of the July 4th and Labor Day holidays. 

The very popular P.O.W Weekends return to the fort’s line-up this year, and new River Boat Cruises for groups of 40 or more have been added.  As always, favorites like the Officers’ Quarters, Blacksmith Shop and Laundry will be open, and artillery demonstrations and infantry drills return for the 2010 season.  Daily schedules are available by calling the Fort Delaware office at 302-834-7941. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or order from St. George’s Country Store in the concession area. 

Travel to the fort is via ferry from either Delaware City or Fort Mott State Park in New Jersey. Following a boat ride and a walk down the dock, a tram takes visitors to the front of the fort. Ferry tickets may be purchased by calling 1-877-987-2757 or visiting www.destateparks.com.  Ferry schedules are also available on the parks’ website.  The last ferry to Pea Patch Island leaves Delaware City at 4 p.m.

The ferry ticket includes admission to all regularly-scheduled daily programs. Premium and Hands-On Programs are available for an additional fee. These programs are limited in size and sell out quickly. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis in the Visitors’ Center (on the island) on the day of the program.  Groups of 20 or more should contact the park office to schedule special programs and tours.