North Carolina History Museums

Our state history museums seek to capture the spirit of North Carolina and its people by interpreting more than 14,000 years of history through interactive and informative exhibits and engaging programming, and preserving a collection of more than 350,000 objects. At North Carolina's public history museums you'll find everything from a sword recovered from Blackbeard's flagship, Queen Anne's Revnege, to the complete Cumberland County workshop of gun inventor "Carbine Williams."

The flagship North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh tells the story of the Old North State as a whole, while six regional museums--including three museums focused on maritime history--in Beaufort, Elizabeth City, Fayetteville, Hatteras, Old Fort and Southport spotlight the unique heritage of many of North Carolina's diverse places.

All seven museums encourage you to discover the Tar Heel State’s past and to reflect on your life and place in history. 

14,000 Years Under One Roof

With exhibits showcasing North Carolina's rich history from early Native American life to the struggle for civil rights in the 1940s, 50s and 60s, the N.C. Museum of History makes a perfect weekend destination for you and your family. 

Rotating special exhibits and visiting lecturers add variety to popular permanent attractions like the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame and the award-winning Story of North Carolina exhibit, a 20,000 square foot exploration of experiences across the Old North State.

The diverse array of exhibits and lineup of innovative programs will expand your understanding of North Carolina's past and give you the opportunity to meet the interesting characters that have defined the state's story.

Visit the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh