Fort Christina

It was here, along the banks of the Christina River, over 375 years ago, that the first Swedish and Finnish American settlers aboard the Kalmar Nyckel and the Fogel Grip landed and settled the first American Swedish colony called New Sweden.

This site is open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day, with reduced fall hours following through the end of October. When you visit during that time frame, your tour of Fort Christina will start at the white tent with our partners at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation. While at the tent, you can ask them about the variety of Junior Ranger books they have available and for the stamp for your passport book. Outside of the operating season the stamp is available at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation.

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The granite monument donated by Sweden stands in the foreground, as the Kalmar Nyckel floats in the background.

 

Know Before You Go

• Events & Programs
• Places around Fort Christina

Fees & Passes

There is no fee to visit Fort Christina, but Old Swedes Historic Site and the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation do charge a small fee for tours. Together, these three sites beautifully illustrate the founding of the New Sweden colony. 

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Planning Your Visit

• Fort Christina has no restrooms, port-a-potties, or running water available. 

• The flagstone walkway is uneven and may cause problems for wheelchairs and strollers. Please watch where you step while visiting to avoid tripping and falling.

• Seating is limited inside the park, please contact the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation for accommodations.

• Electricity is limited in the park, please contact the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation for accommodations.

• Any material, including hammocks, may not be hung from or attached to trees, walls, or any other original feature within Fort Christina.

• There is no boat ramp available at Fort Christina to access the river.

• Fires and open flames are prohibited.

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Location

1110 East 7th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801

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Hours of Operation

 

Off Season

For large groups that wishing to visit Fort Christina outside of summer season, please contact the park to make an appointment.

Phone: [phone]

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Contact Information

This site is interpreted by our partners at the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation, and the Old Swedes Historic Site. For questions regarding tours, special programs, or hours please visit their website or contact them at:

• Kalmar Nyckel Foundation
  Phone: [phone]
• Old Swedes Historic Site
  Phone: [phone]