Accessibility

Visiting Our Spaces

The Delaware History Museum, Mitchell Center for African American History, Old Town Hall, the Research Library, and Willingtown Square

Building Accessibility

The Delaware History Museum, Mitchell Center for African American History, Old Town Hall, the Research Library, and Willingtown Square are accessible. The second floor of the Delaware History Museum and Old Town Hall are accessible by elevator. The Research Library and Willingtown Square are accessible via a ramp off Market Street by the gate near the bell.

Parking

There are two (2) meters designated for accessible parking on each side of Market Street between 5th and 6th streets.

Bathrooms

There is an accessible bathroom on the first floor of the Delaware History Museum, equipped with a changing table. Additional bathrooms are located on the second floor and are accessible by elevator. The first floor of the library has an accessible bathroom.

For questions about accessibility at the Delaware Historical Society or to request specific accommodations ahead of your visit, contact deinfo@dehistory.org or call (302) 322-8411.

Visiting the Read House & Gardens

Read House & Gardens is committed to exceptional customer service and ensuring that every guest has a safe and comfortable visit.

Building Accessibility

The entrance for purchasing tickets to the Read House & Gardens is in the basement of the historic structure. To enter you will be asked to take 12 steps down. If you are unable to do so please call in advance, so that staff can help you access our ground-floor entrance.

The first floor of the Read House is accessible and comprises the majority of the guided tour. Access to the second-floor rooms on the guided tour and self-guided exhibits requires guests to climb one flight of stairs (approximately 22 steps).

Please note: There is no elevator. However, the house does have two different staircases: one with a steeper incline and another with a gentler incline. Guests are welcome to use either and should alert the interpreter if one is strongly preferred. For those who cannot climb stairs, arrangements can be made to experience the house and exhibits from the first floor.

Parking

There is no designated parking for the Read House & Gardens. Street parking is available throughout Historic New Castle on a first-come-first-served basis.

Please Note: Many of the historic roads of New Castle contain uneven bricks and cobblestones. These may be challenging for those with physical impairments. The closest parking to the Read House is along the Strand and 2nd Street. If drop-off accommodations need to be made, staff are happy to meet visitors at the back gate along 2nd Street to provide assistance. Please call in advance if assistance is needed.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at the tour entrance in the basement. An accessible bathroom is available on the first floor of the house upon request.

Visit the Read House & Gardens website for more information. For questions about accessibility at the Read House & Gardens or to request specific accommodations ahead of your visit, contact rhinfo@dehistory.org or call (302) 322-8411