Things To Do in New Castle
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New Castle Attractions
Many historic buildings in New Castle are privately owned and thus not open to the public. Stop by the Court House to pick up a map and guide to the town's historic buildings, which points out the ones open to the public. Note: Almost everything (except a few restaurants and shops) is closed on Mondays and weekdays in winter.
A notable building is the 1820 Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green, at Second and Harmony sts., which was the first parish of the Church of England in Delaware. Extensively damaged by fire in 1980, it has been carefully restored. The adjoining cemetery is the resting place of many prominent Delawareans, including George Read I, signer of the Declaration of Independence. Another is the New Castle-Frenchtown Railroad Ticket Office, a tiny white building and a stretch of track in Battery Park that recalls the 1820s horse-drawn railway, once part of an important commercial route.
The historic district has only a few shops. For country items, stop by Almost History, 302 Delaware St. (tel. 302/322-6434). Crafters will find Two Morrow's Stitches That Count, 306 Delaware St. (tel. 302/328-7888), useful.
Attention Hog Fans -- Is it a restaurant, a museum, or a motorcycle dealership? Actually, Mike's Famous Harley-Davidson, 2160 New Castle Ave., New Castle (tel. 800/FAMOUS-HD [326-6874]; www.mikesfamous.com), is all three. Just off the Delaware Memorial Bridge at I-295 South and Route 9 in New Castle, motorcycle enthusiasts can eat at Mike's Warehouse Grill; visit the Museum of the American Road; and shop for a new or used Harley parts, clothes, or baby gear. The grill describes its cuisine as "regional American roadside," serving what Delaware Today has called the best chili in the area. The museum (admission $4 adults; $3 children 4-10, seniors, students, and military) features the Harley ridden around the world. Store, restaurant, and museum hours vary seasonally, but all are open daily. Mike's also hosts bike runs, parties, and other events, and offers motorcycle rentals as well. Check the website for hours and special events.
- Historic Site
Amstel House
Dating from the 1730s, this house is a fine example of Georgian architecture. It was likely the most elegant home in town when constructed. Today, it's furnished with antiques and decorative arts of the period. - Historic Site
Dutch House
One of the oldest brick houses in Delaware, this building has remained almost unchanged since its construction around 1700. The early Dutch furnishings include a courting bench; also on display is a 16th-century Dutch Bible. During seasonal celebrations, the dining table is set with… - Library/University
Old Library Museum
This fanciful hexagonal building, erected in 1892 by the New Castle Library Society, holds exhibits by the New Castle Historical Society. Its Victorian styling is attributed to the architectural firm of Frank Furness of Philadelphia. - Landmark
Old New Castle Court House
This building was Delaware's Colonial capital and the meeting place of the state assembly until 1777. Built in 1732 on the fire-charred remains of an earlier courthouse, it's been restored and modified over the years, though always maintaining its role as the focal point of town.… - Historic Site
Read House & Gardens
A walk through this 22-room Federal-style house overlooking the river is a walk through New Castle history. Originally the home of George Read II, son of a signer of the Declaration of Independence, it had only two other owners. Rooms from each "period" pay homage to them all. The…
