Things To Do
in New Castle

New Castle is a charming city located in the state of Delaware. It is known for its rich colonial history and well-preserved historic architecture. The city is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and theaters.

New Castle also offers beautiful parks and scenic waterfront views along the Delaware River.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore New Castle
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the New Castle Historical Society for an overview of the local history. Grab coffee at a nearby café to energize you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Head to Battery Park for a picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the Delaware River. Walk around the park and take photos of the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant to experience the local cuisine. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverfront to unwind.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Delaware Museum of Natural History to explore fascinating exhibits. It's a great way to learn about the natural world.

afternoon
:

Stop by New Castle's Art on the Avenue for local art galleries and installations. Perhaps pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.

evening
:

Check out a performance at the town's local theater to enjoy some entertainment. Ending the night with dessert at a nearby bakery is a perfect treat.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Friendly community atmosphere.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas.
  • Good school systems and educational opportunities.
  • Limited job opportunities in certain industries.
  • Small-town feel may limit entertainment options.
  • Harsh winters with significant snowfall.
  • Potential for reduced public transportation availability.
  • Limited access to larger metropolitan amenities.

Best Activities in New Castle

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Battery Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or take in the scenic views of the Delaware River at this historic park in New Castle.

Delaware River and Bay Lighthouse Foundation Tours

Take a boat tour to explore historic lighthouses and learn about maritime history on the Delaware River and Bay.

New Castle Historical Society Walking Tours

Discover the rich history and architecture of New Castle through guided walking tours offered by the historical society.

Tours

Uncover the best of New Castle with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in New Castle

Visit one of these nice places.

Battery Park

Offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the city skyline. Perfect for capturing beautiful sunset and cityscape shots.

Port Penn Interpretive Center

Provides panoramic views of the marshlands and wildlife, ideal for nature photography and birdwatching.

Fort Delaware State Park

Features historical landscapes and scenic vistas, showcasing the historic military fortress and the surrounding waterways. Great for landscape and historical photography.

Food in New Castle

New Castle, United States offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that reflects the city's multicultural heritage. From classic American fare to international cuisine, visitors can indulge in a wide range of delicious dishes and drinks.

New Castle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crab Cakes

A local favorite, New Castle's crab cakes are renowned for their succulent crab meat and flavorful seasoning. Enjoy them at Jessop's Tavern or McCloskey's Tavern.

Must-Try!

Peach Pie

Indulge in the sweet, fruity flavors of New Castle's famous peach pie, available at Jessop's Tavern and local bakeries like Serpe’s Bakery.

Rockfish

Savor the delicate flavor of rockfish, a staple in the local seafood scene. Visit Harry's Seafood Grill for a delectable serving.

Unique Experiences

Get to know New Castle better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

New Castle Farmer's Market

Experience the vibrant food market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal treats. Be sure to sample the diverse range of street food stalls for an authentic culinary experience.

Riverview Food Truck Park

For a casual and eclectic dining experience, explore the variety of food trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers to global street food flavors.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as humid continental, marked by four distinct seasons. Winters tend to be cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, leading to snowfall that can accumulate over the season. Spring brings a gradual warming, with mild temperatures and an increase in precipitation. Summers are typically warm to hot, with average high temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, accompanied by humidity. Fall features a cooling trend, with colorful foliage as the leaves change, and temperatures becoming crisp. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight increase during the warmer months. Overall, the area experiences a mix of weather patterns that contribute to its diverse seasonal climate.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In New Castle, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when engaging in conversation.

Tipping etiquette

When dining out or using services, it's customary to leave a tip of around 15-20% of the total bill to show appreciation for good service.

Greeting people

In New Castle, it's polite to offer a friendly greeting, such as a handshake or a simple 'hello', when meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of New Castle with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this city can vary depending on different neighborhoods and areas. Generally, crime rates, community resources, and local law enforcement presence play significant roles in determining the safety of an area. Residents and visitors often discuss community engagement, local initiatives, and the effectiveness of policing as important factors. Like many urban areas, some neighborhoods may experience higher crime rates, while others are known for their low crime and community-oriented atmosphere. Resources such as neighborhood watch programs, community policing efforts, and local crime reporting can help improve safety perceptions. It's important for individuals to stay informed about local conditions, participate in community safety initiatives, and be aware of their surroundings. In recent years, cities have also implemented various strategies to enhance safety, including improving street lighting, increasing patrols in high-crime areas, and promoting public safety campaigns. Engaging with local community organizations can provide insight into the best practices for safety and help foster a stronger sense of community. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, prospective residents or visitors may wish to consult local crime statistics or speak with residents to get a better understanding of safety in specific neighborhoods.

Tipping in New Castle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is a common practice in the United States, including New Castle. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The typical gratuity is around 15-20% of the total bill.

Payment

Payment in New Castle, United States, is primarily done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are gaining popularity, especially in larger cities.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into New Castle.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor events such as festivals and farmers markets.

Summer

Warm weather, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, and lively atmosphere with concerts and local events.

Fall

Beautiful foliage, cooler temperatures, harvest festivals, and pumpkin patches.

Winter

Cold weather, holiday events, winter sports like skiing, and festive decorations.

New Castle at Night

Nightlife in New Castle presents a charming blend of historic ambiance and modern excitement. The town, known for its rich history and picturesque settings, offers a variety of evening activities suited to different preferences. For those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, there are several bars and pubs featuring local craft beers and live music. These venues often host talented local musicians, making for a relaxed and enjoyable evening. If you prefer a quieter night out, you might find the town's selection of cozy cafes and restaurants appealing. Many of these establishments highlight regional cuisine and are perfect for a laid-back dinner or late-night coffee. Additionally, cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the local theaters and community events that occasionally take place in the evenings. These events often showcase local talent and provide a great opportunity to engage with the community. Overall, the nightlife in this historic town is characterized by its inviting and relaxed vibe, making it an ideal spot for both residents and visitors looking for a pleasant way to spend their evenings.

Hiking in New Castle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Airy Lodge

This beautiful hiking area offers trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Loyalhanna Gorge Trail

A scenic trail that follows the Loyalhanna Creek, providing a perfect mix of nature and wildlife observation.

McConnells Mill State Park

Features several hiking trails, including rugged trails that lead to breathtaking views of the Slippery Rock Creek.

Kinzua Bridge State Park

Home to the Kinzua Sky Walk, where visitors can walk out over the gorge and explore several walking trails.

Raccoon Creek State Park

Offers a variety of hiking trails through dense woodlands and along beautiful Lake Pleasant.

Bear Run Nature Reserve

Provides a network of trails through diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.

Beaver Creek State Park

A vast area with well-maintained trails, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful hiking experience.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into New Castle through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach New Castle by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Located approximately 16 miles southwest of New Castle, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York metropolitan area.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

About 30 miles southwest of New Castle, PHL is the primary airport serving Philadelphia and the surrounding region.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Situated around 70 miles northeast of New Castle, JFK is a major international airport located in Queens, New York.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Located approximately 65 miles northeast of New Castle, LGA mainly serves domestic flights but also offers some international service.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

About 90 miles southwest of New Castle, BWI serves the Baltimore-Washington area and offers numerous international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in a community refers to how friendly an area is to walking, including the presence of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, accessibility to public transportation, proximity to essential services, and overall safety for pedestrians. In this particular city, residents can find varying levels of walkability depending on the neighborhood. Many neighborhoods feature a mix of residential areas and local businesses, making it convenient for residents to walk to shops, parks, and restaurants. Certain areas are designed with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as well-maintained sidewalks and ample crosswalks, promoting a sense of safety for walkers. However, like many places, some regions may be less walkable, characterized by scattered developments and limited public transit options, which can necessitate the use of a vehicle for everyday errands. Efforts are ongoing in various communities to enhance walkability through urban planning and improvements in public spaces. Overall, the walkability in this city offers residents both the opportunities and challenges typical of many small to medium-sized cities in the United States, with some areas thriving as walkable neighborhoods and others needing development to support a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

The largest demographic group, comprising a majority of the population in New Castle.

African American

A significant minority group contributing to the cultural diversity of New Castle.

Hispanic or Latino

A growing demographic group in New Castle, representing a mix of cultures.

Asian

Includes various subgroups, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.

Other Race

This category includes individuals from other racial backgrounds.

The Soul of New Castle

Discover the essence of New Castle through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

American football is popular in New Castle, with various youth leagues and high school teams competing enthusiastically.

Basketball

Basketball has a strong following in the community, with local schools hosting teams and recreational leagues being common.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in New Castle, featuring local parks and community teams that engage both youth and adults.

Soccer

Soccer is gaining popularity in New Castle, especially among youth leagues and community clubs promoting the sport.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in New Castle, with local teams participating in regional competitions.

Traffic

Traffic in this small city can vary based on the time of day and local events. During peak hours, the main roads may experience congestion, particularly near commercial areas and schools. The presence of public transportation, including buses, helps alleviate some traffic, but delays can still occur. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, leading to increased demand on the local road network. The city's layout includes a mix of residential neighborhoods and business districts, which can create bottlenecks at intersections during busy times. Road maintenance and construction projects can further impact traffic flow, causing detours and delays. Overall, while it generally moves at a moderate pace, congestion can be an issue during peak periods, necessitating careful planning for travel times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting New Castle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants and eateries in New Castle offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Standout options include the veggie burger at 8th & Union Kitchen and the vegan fare at Drop Squad Kitchen.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore gluten-free options at various dining establishments, such as the gluten-free pizza at Margherita's Pizza or the gluten-sensitive menu at Stone Balloon Ale House.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of New Castle with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this area is influenced by a mix of local hospitals, clinics, and specialty care services. The healthcare system typically includes both public and private facilities, providing a range of services from primary care to emergency services. Residents have access to a variety of healthcare professionals, including family physicians, specialists, and mental health providers. Community health initiatives often aim to address specific needs, such as preventative care and chronic disease management. Local hospitals often serve as critical access points for more serious health issues, offering emergency care and inpatient services. Many healthcare facilities also emphasize collaboration with local organizations to promote health education and resources. Additionally, access to healthcare can vary based on socioeconomic factors, insurance coverage, and transportation availability. Efforts are frequently made to improve health equity and ensure that all residents receive the care they need. In recent years, telehealth services have gained traction, especially in response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing for greater access to healthcare resources from home. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this region is characterized by a commitment to improving health outcomes and addressing community-specific health challenges.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2024 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide