Fodor's Expert Review Rockwood Museum and Park

Rockwood, an elegant English-style country house and a fine example of rural Gothic architecture, stands in contrast to the opulent, French-inspired du Pont homes in the area. Built in 1851 by Joseph Shipley, a Quaker banker, and occupied by his descendants until 1972, the house is now a museum filled with ornate Victorian furnishings and decorative arts. Tours (required in the house) are given on the hour; there are some candlelight tours in December. Beyond the English landscape garden, the 72-acre public grounds feature 2½ miles of paved, lighted trails. In summer Rockwood Park hosts one play in the Delaware Shakespeare Festival.