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Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park

4.6
·163 reviews·Wilmington, United States

A historic waterfront park honoring abolitionists, hosting vibrant festivals, and offering scenic river views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late afternoon

Fewer crowds, peaceful river views

CrowdLow
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River Walk

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park

Best Time

Weekdays, late afternoon

Fewer crowds, peaceful river views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic waterfront park honoring abolitionists, hosting vibrant festivals, and offering scenic river views.

4.6
(163 reviews)

"A beautiful and well-maintained waterfront park, though quite small. You can wait for your train here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Festivals bring energy but also crowds! Plan accordingly.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the riverfront.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tubman & Garrett Statue

Tubman & Garrett Statue

Central Park Area

A powerful tribute to Underground Railroad agents Harriet Tubman and Thomas Garrett, inspiring reflection.

Instagram
Riverfront Promenade

Riverfront Promenade

Along the Christina River

Stroll along the water, enjoy scenic views, and relax on benches. Perfect for a peaceful moment.

Reddit
Event Hub

Event Hub

Open Lawn Areas

Home to vibrant festivals like the Delaware Taco Festival and People's Festival. Experience local culture!

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Check for local events! Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park hosts festivals like the Delaware Taco Festival and People's Festival. These can be amazing but also mean bigger crowds and less parking. Plan your visit around these if you want the lively atmosphere, or aim for a quieter weekday if you prefer a more relaxed experience. Instagram+1

Riverfront Safety

While generally safe, some visitors have noted the presence of homeless individuals. It's always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting solo or at dusk. The park is well-lit and often busy during events, which adds to the sense of security. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful river views
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals
Why
Lively atmosphere, food & music
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

U gotta try my baby Serenas Soul food in wilmington de out! Its on the riverfront! #serenassoulfood #gert #riversideprojects #deepfriedsalmon #macoroniandcheese #collardgreens #seafoodsalad #friedchicken #yams #dcmwg #dontcallmewhitegirl #dontcallmewhitegirlpodcast #215 #eat #food #fakefoodie #girldinner
@dontcallmewhitegi
3.5K likes • 55.1K views

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Festivals bring energy but also crowds! Plan accordingly. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the riverfront. Reddit

There’s so many riverfront dining options to try here in downtown! #wilmingtonnc #riverfront #waterfront #dinner #explore #downtown #nc #downtownwilmington #food
@wilmingtondowntowninc
1.5K likes • 107.4K views
✨ From riverfront views to city squares, every year Dîner en Blanc Wilmington has transformed some of our city’s most iconic spaces into unforgettable soirées: 2018 – Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park 2019 – Market St. Historic District 2021 – Rodney Square 2022 – Cool Spring Park 2023 – Tubman Garrett Riverfront Park 2024 – Brandywine Park 🌙 And in 2025… well, that’s the secret. 😉 Where will “Blo...
dinerenblancwilmington
40 likes • 1.5K views

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops, especially during sunset. Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be tight during events; consider public transport. Reddit

🌮 Tomorrow is the Delaware Taco Festival! Join us at Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park, Rosa Parks Drive in Wilmington for unlimited taco fun, live music, & tasty drinks. VIP hour kicks off at 12 PM. Don’t miss it! 🎟️ Grab your tickets through the link in bio & get ready for the ultimate taco day! Use promo code: TraumaFoundation30 for 30% off tickets #delaware #taco #wilmingtonde #netde #firststat...
firststatedates
0 likes • 36.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedule

Festivals bring energy but also crowds! Plan accordingly. Instagram+1

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the riverfront. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Great photo ops, especially during sunset. Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be tight during events; consider public transport. Reddit

🍽️ Foodie Fun

Look out for food trucks and festivals for delicious eats! TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(163 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park for its scenic river views, spacious layout perfect for events, and its significant historical tribute to Tubman and Garrett. It's a popular spot for festivals and a relaxing place to enjoy the waterfront. Some note that parking can be challenging during events and that the park, while nice, might not be the 'best' park in the city for some.

"Was having coffee and heard music playing in the background. Walked over to Tubman Garrett Park. I didn’t know they had a festival going on. Was really nice! They call it the August Quarterly. They be been doing it for 5 years at this location! Park is spacious and sits right by the river. Plenty of room for people and events. There’s enough space for food trucks and vendors. Sitting by the water is so relaxing! There are benches but, they fill up fast with a big event! Park is right across from the Wilmington Train Station. Vicki Winnan was one of the performers."

Thomas Cleveland

"I love this place. I was there for the Food Festival. A great day for young and old.

The beer mug competition was fun. The food was good.

There is a whole lot to be proud of there. The statue of Harriett Tubman and William Garrett was thought provoking and encouraging."

Cat Robinson

"A beautiful and well-maintained waterfront park, though quite small. You can wait for your train here, as the park is located right behind the city’s main train station. It’s also nice to sit on a bench with a view of the river. We saw a very pretty birdhouse here. And you can also see seagulls up close."

Nika Navi

What People Like

Scenic riverfront views
Spacious for events
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Parking during events
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The park is conveniently located across from the Wilmington Train Station, making it easily accessible by Amtrak and SEPTA. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging during events. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during festivals and events. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation if you're visiting during a popular time. Reddit

Absolutely! The Wilmington Train Station is right across the street, offering easy access via train. Local bus routes also serve the area. Reddit

The park is generally accessible with paved pathways along the riverfront, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Reddit

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park is a short walk or a quick drive from downtown Wilmington. Many visitors enjoy strolling along the riverfront to reach it. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the space and its amenities for free. Reddit

As a public park, it is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific event hours may vary, so it's best to check the schedule if you're planning to attend a festival. Reddit

Many events, like the Delaware Taco Festival or People's Festival, do require tickets for entry or special access. Always check the event organizer's website for ticketing information. Instagram+1

Generally, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages for a picnic. However, some events may have restrictions, so it's wise to check event-specific rules. Reddit

There are no general restrictions on photography for personal use. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy leisurely walks along the river, admire the Tubman-Garrett statue, relax on benches, and attend various festivals and events held throughout the year. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the park is spacious and offers a pleasant environment for families. It's a great spot for picnics and enjoying outdoor activities, especially during events. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available, especially during organized events. It's always a good idea to check for their exact locations upon arrival. Reddit

The park hosts a variety of events, including food festivals (like the Delaware Taco Festival), music festivals (like People's Festival), and community gatherings. Instagram+2

While generally safe, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting solo or at night. The park is well-trafficked during events, which enhances safety. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the park is adjacent to the Wilmington Riverfront, which offers numerous dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. Food trucks are also common during festivals. TikTokInstagram+1

Festivals often feature a diverse range of food, including tacos, BBQ, soul food, and seafood. The Delaware Taco Festival is a prime example of the culinary variety. TikTokInstagram+1

Many food festivals strive to offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to check the specific vendor lists for each event. Instagram

During festivals, there are usually vendors selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The surrounding Riverfront area also has many bars and restaurants. Instagram

Vendors like Serena's Soul Food and those participating in the Delaware Taco Festival are popular. Look out for unique offerings like oxtail tacos! TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The riverfront promenade offers beautiful views, especially at sunset. The Tubman-Garrett statue is also a significant and photogenic landmark. InstagramReddit

Yes, from the park, you can get some nice shots of the Wilmington skyline across the river, particularly during the golden hour. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and near populated areas. It's best to check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone. Reddit

The golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos along the river. Mornings can also be peaceful and offer soft light. Reddit

Yes, personal photography is generally allowed during events. However, be mindful of crowds and avoid obstructing performers or vendors. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed outing. The open spaces are perfect for kids to run around, and the riverfront promenade offers a safe and scenic walk. During festivals, the park transforms into a lively hub with entertainment and diverse food options that kids often enjoy. InstagramReddit Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or explore the various food trucks that frequent the park during events. The nearby train station also adds a touch of excitement for young train enthusiasts. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Photographers

For solo travelers and photographers, Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park offers a blend of historical interest and scenic beauty. The Tubman-Garrett statue provides a compelling subject, while the riverfront itself is ideal for capturing atmospheric shots, especially during sunrise or sunset. InstagramReddit While the park is generally safe, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly if visiting during off-peak hours. Reddit The park's accessibility via public transport also makes it an easy destination to explore independently. Reddit

🍔 Foodies & Festival Goers

If you're a foodie or love the buzz of festivals, this park is a must-visit. It's a prime location for events like the Delaware Taco Festival, where you can sample a wide array of culinary delights, from traditional tacos to innovative creations like oxtail tacos. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on the event schedule for other food-centric gatherings and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, live music, and diverse food trucks that frequent the park. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Honoring History: Tubman & Garrett

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park is more than just a scenic spot; it's a place of historical significance. The park is named in honor of Harriet Tubman and Thomas Garrett, two pivotal figures in the Underground Railroad. Harriet Tubman, a conductor on the Underground Railroad, famously led enslaved people to freedom, while Thomas Garrett, a Quaker abolitionist from Wilmington, was a key supporter and financier of the network. Their collaboration and dedication to fighting slavery are commemorated by a prominent statue within the park, serving as a powerful reminder of their legacy. Instagram+1

This historical context adds a layer of depth to the park experience. Visitors can reflect on the bravery and resilience of those who fought for freedom. The park's location in Wilmington, a city with a rich African American history, further emphasizes its importance as a site of remembrance and education. It’s a place where the past meets the present, offering a space for contemplation and learning. Instagram+1

Vibrant Events and Festivals

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park truly comes alive during its many events and festivals. It's a popular venue for a wide array of celebrations, drawing locals and visitors alike. The Delaware Taco Festival is a major highlight, featuring an abundance of taco vendors, live music, and drinks, creating a lively atmosphere for food enthusiasts. Instagram+1 Another significant event is the People's Festival, which celebrates reggae icon Bob Marley with music, good vibes, and a strong sense of community. Instagram+1 The park's spacious layout is ideal for hosting these large-scale gatherings, with ample room for food trucks, vendors, stages, and attendees. Reddit

Beyond these well-known festivals, the park also hosts other community events, such as the August Quarterly and the Health, Hope & Hip-Hop Block Party. InstagramReddit These events showcase the park's versatility as a community gathering space, offering diverse cultural experiences. When planning your visit, checking the park's event calendar is highly recommended to catch these vibrant celebrations and experience the park at its most energetic. Instagram+1

A Relaxing Riverside Escape

Even without a specific event, Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park offers a tranquil escape along the Christina River. The riverfront promenade provides a pleasant path for a leisurely stroll, offering scenic views of the water and the surrounding cityscape. Benches are strategically placed along the waterfront, inviting visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Reddit It's a perfect spot for a quiet moment, whether you're waiting for a train at the nearby station or simply seeking a breath of fresh air. Reddit

The park's proximity to the Wilmington Train Station makes it an accessible and convenient location for both travelers and locals. You can enjoy watching seagulls, observing the birdlife, or simply soaking in the waterfront scenery. Reddit The well-maintained grounds and the gentle lapping of the river create a calming environment, making it a delightful place to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty within the urban setting. Reddit

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