Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of DE
You can't miss the awesome sight of the Kalmar Nyckel's huge mast and elaborate rigging gracing the docks of the riverfront. Hand-built with the same old world craftsmanship used on the original ship, this replica is designed after the Swedish ship, which brought the first permanent European settlers to the banks of the Christina River in 1638.
Moored at docks located next to the Shipyard Shops and at Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, this magnificent ship helps create Riverfront history. Be sure not to miss the chance to get on deck for:
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Tours and excursions
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A close look at the 10 cannons, 7,500 square feet of sails and six miles of rigging
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A view of the 10-story high mainmast
Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park
Come listen to the music of the seasonal festivals or take in the tranquil grounds of Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park overlooking the Christina River. It is an ideal location for both recreation and relaxation. So when the music stops and the crowds return home, the simple gardens and graceful park benches offer visitors a quiet retreat.
The Park was named for Thomas Garrett who lived in Wilmington's nearby Quaker Hill neighborhood, where slaves traveling the Underground Railroad often found refuge, and for fellow abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Today it serves as a place for celebration and festivals for Riverfront visitors.
Past festivals have included:
Riverfront Blues Festival
Bob Marley Festival
Hispanic Festival
DuPont Riverfest
August Quarterly
Riverwalk & Hare Pavilion
This 1.3-mile riverfront path provides pedestrian access to attractions from Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park to the Shipyard Shops. Strollers can enjoy extensive native plantings with more than 5,000 trees and shrubs, 36,000 grasses, perennials and annuals, and 27,600 wetland plants.
When you are ready for a rest, you can relax on the path's numerous gathering areas, small parks or the Hare Pavilion. A 30 by 40 foot pavilion overlooking the Christina River at the foot of Old West Street, right on the Riverwalk. The landscaped area surrounding the Hare Pavilion can accommodate up to 300 people. It is available for corporate, private or community events.
The Riverwalk and the Hare Pavilion are a great way to see the beauty of the Riverfront while enjoying all its amenities, history and entertainment.
Russell W. Peterson Wildlife Refuge
What a great concept: an urban wildlife refuge along Wilmington's Riverfront. And not only will Riverfront visitors gain a unique environmental experience, the city's residents and schoolchildren will have access to wildlife education and recreation.
Named after Russell W. Peterson, former Governor of Delaware who gained international recognition as an environmentalist, scientist, activist and public servant, the refuge is one of the few urban wildlife areas in the country. Riverfront visitors will soon be able to escape into the tranquility of the sanctuary that is among the nation's most valuable fish and wildlife habitats.
An extensive marsh restoration process began in 1998, and has already enabled beneficial vegetation to flourish in the marsh and provide habitat for wetland wildlife. Future rehabilitation efforts will include stabilizing the shorelines, re-excavating water channels to their historic patterns,developing a trail system and installing wildlife nesting structures.
Penn Cinema
Penn Cinema Riverfront, the newest addition to Riverfront Wilmington, boasts nearly 3000 seats in 14 standard auditoriums and the state's only IMAX® Theatre.
Featuring high-back, leather stadium seats, state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, and ample parking, Penn Cinema Riverfront provides a comfortable, clean and safe movie experience. In addition to Hollywood blockbusters, Penn Cinema Riverfront offers select classic features, independent films, IMAX Documentaries, and alternative content, including satellite telecasts of live performances, concerts, and shows. Penn Cinema Riverfront is also available for private screenings, field trips, and corporate meetings.
