Top 100 best museums in North Carolina

The Biltmore Estate, located near Asheville in North Carolina, is a property that boasts a mansion built in the Renaissance style. Known as the Biltmore House, this grand structure now serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence and grandeur.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center is a significant landmark located in Dare County, North Carolina. It serves as a tourist office, providing visitors with information and guidance about the memorial and its surroundings. The center is an integral part of the Wright Brothers National Memorial, offering insights into the history and significance of the Wright Brothers' achievements.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a spacious museum dedicated to showcasing mid-20th-century modern art. The museum spans an impressive 36,500 square feet, providing ample space for a variety of exhibitions.

The North Carolina Arboretum, also known as El Jardín Botánico de Cape Fear, is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans 434 acres. It is located in Asheville, North Carolina, and is managed by the University of North Carolina. The arboretum is a member of the Botanical Gardens Conservation International and houses the national collection of azaleas from the North American Plant Collections Consortium.

The Billy Graham Library serves as a public museum and library that documents the life and ministry of the renowned Christian evangelist, Billy Graham. It provides an in-depth look into his life, his teachings, and his impact on the world. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and collections that showcase his life's work and his contributions to Christianity.

Each of the three North Carolina Aquariums offers a variety of interactive experiences, including dive shows, live animal encounters, and feeding programs. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about aquatic life in an engaging and hands-on way.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a replica of an 18th-century eastern Cherokee community located in Cherokee , North Carolina , United States along the Oconaluftee River . The Cherokee "living museum" is operated by the Cherokee Historical Association . Guides take visitors through the village expl

The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, also known as Cone Park, is a country estate located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. It is situated on the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 292 and 295, with the main access point at milepost 294. This park is a tribute to Moses H. Cone and is managed by the National Park Service.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a replica of an 18th-century eastern Cherokee community located in Cherokee , North Carolina , United States along the Oconaluftee River . The Cherokee "living museum" is operated by the Cherokee Historical Association . Guides take visitors through the village expl

The Folk Art Center, situated at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina, is a museum dedicated to Appalachian arts and crafts. This location is a hub for the appreciation and understanding of the rich artistic traditions of the Appalachian region.

The Duke Lemur Center, located at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, is an 85-acre sanctuary for rare and endangered strepsirrhine primates. It holds the distinction of being the largest sanctuary for these primates in the world.

Don't judge a book by its cover! This area is full of old warehouses that are being turned into an edgy artsy enclave.

The Asheville Art Museum is a community-based nonprofit visual art organization in Western North Carolina (WNC) and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums . The Museum is located on the center square of downtown Asheville , 2 South Pack Square at Pack Place. The Asheville Art Museum pres

The North Carolina Museum of Art, which was established in 1947, is situated in Raleigh. The museum officially opened its doors to the public on April 6, 1956. This historical establishment has been a significant part of the city's cultural scene for many decades.

Black Mountain College was a private liberal arts college in Black Mountain, North Carolina . It was founded in 1933 by John Andrew Rice , Theodore Dreier, and several others. The college was ideologically organized around John Dewey 's principles of education which emphasized holistic learning and

The Airborne & Special Operations Museum (ASOM) is a significant part of the U.S Army Museum Enterprise. Its primary mission is to preserve and educate the public about the history of the Special Operations and Airborne community. Additionally, it provides a broader perspective on U.S military history. This museum is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these aspects of American history.

Mount Mitchell State Park is a 4,789-acre (19.38 km ) North Carolina state park in Yancey County, North Carolina in the United States. Established in 1915 by the state legislature, it became the first state park of North Carolina . By doing so, it also established the North Carolina State Parks Sys

The North Carolina Zoo is strategically located approximately 100 kilometers west of Raleigh and 100 kilometers northeast of Charlotte. This central location in the state makes it easily accessible for visitors from both cities and beyond.

Discovery Place Science is a science and technology museum situated in Uptown, Charlotte, North Carolina. It offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to all ages, making it a great destination for families, school groups, or anyone with a curiosity for science and technology.

The Sullenberger Aviation Museum, previously known as the Carolinas Aviation Museum, is situated on the premises of Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte, North Carolina. This unique location makes it one of the few aviation museums located at a major hub airport. The museum was founded in 1992 and has since amassed a collection of over 50 static aircraft and numerous smaller historic items related to aviation in North Carolina and South Carolina.

The Mint Museum is a cultural institution in Charlotte, North Carolina, consisting of two museums: The Mint Museum Randolph and Mint Museum Uptown. Together, these two locations house hundreds of collections that showcase art and design from around the world. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works, providing a comprehensive view of global art and design history.

The North Carolina Museum of History, situated in downtown Raleigh, is a significant historical institution that is affiliated with the Smithsonian Affiliations program. This affiliation allows the museum to share resources and collaborate with the Smithsonian Institution, enhancing the museum's offerings and providing visitors with a rich and diverse experience.

Old Salem is a historic district of Winston-Salem, North Carolina that was originally settled by the Moravian community in 1766. This small city features a living history museum (operated by the non-profit Old Salem Museums & Gardens, organized as Old Salem Inc.) that interprets the restored Moravia

Old Salem is a historic district of Winston-Salem, North Carolina that was originally settled by the Moravian community in 1766. This small city features a living history museum (operated by the non-profit Old Salem Museums & Gardens, organized as Old Salem Inc.) that interprets the restored Moravia

Blandwood Mansion is a historic house museum at 447 West Washington Street in Greensboro, North Carolina . Originally built as a four-room Federal style farmhouse in 1795, it was home to two-term North Carolina governor John Motley Morehead (1841-1844) under whose ownership it was transformed into

The Museum of Life and Science, which was previously known as the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science and the NC Children's Museum, is a large science museum located in Durham, North Carolina. The museum spans an impressive 84 acres and offers a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, situated on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is one of the oldest and largest planetariums in the United States. It has a rich history and has welcomed over seven million visitors since its opening in 1949. The planetarium was used to train astronauts from the Gemini and Apollo programs in celestial navigation, making it a significant site in the history of space exploration.

The Tar Heels have a successful track record, having won six NCAA championships, 17 Atlantic Coast Conference titles, and 29 regular Atlantic Coast Conference seasons. These achievements are a testament to the team's skill and dedication.

Carolina Tiger Rescue, located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and protection of wildcats. The sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued animals including tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, caracals, servals, bobcats, and other wild species. The organization is committed to the preservation and protection of these animals, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

The City of Raleigh Museum, a local history museum, is situated in the historic Briggs Hardware Building on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This location not only provides a rich historical context but also offers easy access due to its central location in the city.

The Joel Lane House, also known as Wakefield, is a significant historical site in Raleigh, North Carolina. Constructed in 1769, the house has been meticulously restored and now serves as a museum. Visitors can step back in time and explore the oldest dwelling in Wake County, gaining a unique insight into the region's history.

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, in the Moore Square Historic District, Marbles Kids Museum is a nonprofit children's museum. This museum is easily accessible and offers a unique experience for children, making it an ideal destination for families visiting the area.

Yates Mill, a fully restored gristmill from around 1756, is located just five miles south of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This historic mill is the main attraction of the Historic Yates Mill County Park, situated in the heart of Wake County. The mill's rich history and its picturesque location make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in history, architecture, and nature.

The Reynolda House Museum of American Art is renowned for its extensive collection of American art, which spans from the colonial period to the present day. This collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of American art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Nasher Museum of Art (previously the Duke University Museum of Art ) is the art museum of Duke University , and is located on Duke's campus in Durham, North Carolina , United States. The Nasher, along with Dartmouth's Hood Museum of Art and Princeton's Art Museum , has been recognized as a pla

In 2001, the museum was relocated to its current location at the intersection of Independence and 17th Streets and was renamed the Cameron Art Museum. The new location allowed for the construction of three exhibition areas, as well as a lecture and reception hall. This expansion has allowed the museum to offer a wider range of exhibits and events to its visitors.

SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord is an interactive aquarium situated in Concord Mills, Concord, North Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area. The aquarium offers a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to interact with a variety of aquatic creatures.

The Ackland Art Museum is conveniently located at 101 S. Columbia Street, near the intersection of Franklin Street at the northern edge of the university campus. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the last major battles of the American Civil War took place at Fort Fisher. This historical event is a testament to the fort's strategic importance and the role it played in the conflict between the North and the South. Visitors can learn about the battle and its impact on the war's outcome.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is dedicated to educating visitors about the waters of the Cape Fear region. Recognized as one of the Best Aquariums in the United States by the Travel Channel, it offers a variety of exhibits and programs that highlight the diverse aquatic life and ecosystems of the region.

The Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County, located in the heart of Hendersonville's Historic District, is a non-profit institution run by volunteers. Established in 1997, the museum is situated at 400 North Main Street, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Hendrick Motorsports ( HMS ) is an American professional auto racing organization that competes in the NASCAR Cup Series . The team was founded in 1984 as All Star Racing by Rick Hendrick . Hendrick Motorsports has won a NASCAR-record 284 Cup Series races and 14 Cup Series owners and drivers champio

The North Carolina Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame is home to a vast collection of static aircraft, uniforms, memorabilia, and aircraft models. These exhibits are spread across two hangars, providing visitors with a comprehensive look into the history and evolution of aviation. The museum's collection is dynamic, with exhibits changing periodically, ensuring that there's always something new to explore.

The Bog Garden, located at 1101 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, North Carolina, serves as a nature preserve, botanical garden, and city park. It is open to the public every day and does not require an admission fee.

The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, located at 814 Market Street in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, is the oldest history museum in the state, having been founded in 1898. This museum is a testament to the rich history and scientific discoveries of the region, making it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about North Carolina's past.

The North Carolina Transportation Museum, located in Spencer, North Carolina, is a comprehensive collection of automobiles, aircraft, and railway vehicles. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and evolution of various modes of transportation.

The Duke Homestead State Historic Site is a recognized state historic site and National Historic Landmark located in Durham, North Carolina. This site is significant as it commemorates the place where Washington Duke, a prominent figure in the American tobacco industry, founded the nation's largest early-20th-century tobacco firm, the American Tobacco Company. The site offers a glimpse into the history of the tobacco industry in the United States.

Rosedale, also known as Frew's Folly, is a historic plantation house situated in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The plantation house is a significant part of the local heritage and provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the region's history and culture.

The Smith-McDowell House is located in Asheville , North Carolina . It is the city's first mansion and oldest surviving house, and the oldest brick structure in Buncombe County. The house was constructed in the 1840s for James McConnell Smith. His daughter Sarah Smith-McDowell and her husband, Will

The museum believes that the best way to learn is through role-playing and experience. Your kids will have wonderful time here!

Wilmington used to be the headquarters for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad for over 100 years. That's why the interesting museum is here.

The Burgwin Wright House, constructed in 1770, holds the distinction of being the only structure in Wilmington, North Carolina from the colonial era that is open to the public. This historic house was built for John Burgwin, a merchant, planter, and government official. Today, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing hundreds of 18th and 19th-century antiques in its rooms.

Kidzu Children's Museum is a private, non-profit institution that caters to children from infancy through their tween years. This museum is dedicated to providing educational and interactive experiences for children, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids.

The Catawba County Courthouse is a historic building located in Newton, Catawba County, North Carolina. This courthouse, now home to the Catawba County Museum of History, is a significant part of the region's history and architecture. Its Renaissance Revival style and granite veneer structure make it a unique landmark in the area.

This free small exhibit is a real treat for car lovers. Unique collection well worth the visit!

The Hickory Museum of Art (HMA) in Hickory, North Carolina, is an art museum that hosts exhibitions, events, and public educational programs. These activities are based on a permanent collection of American art from the 19th to the 21st century. This collection provides a comprehensive overview of American art history, making it a valuable resource for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The 82nd Airborne Division War Memorial Museum is situated at the intersection of Ardennes and Gela Streets within the Fort Bragg Army base. This location is significant as it is the home of the 82nd Airborne Division, a key player in many of the conflicts the museum showcases.

Take a step back in time to see how far our lives have come. Interesting tour and for free! They ask only for a donation.

Today, the Fayetteville Area Transportation Museum is located in this historic building. The museum showcases the local history and transportation of the area. It features a model train room and a recreated station agent's office, providing a glimpse into the past.

The Bellamy Mansion , built between 1859 and 1861, is a mixture of Neoclassical architectural styles , including Greek Revival and Italianate , and is located at 503 Market Street in the heart of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina . It is one of North Carolina ’s finest examples of historic anteb

Recently revamped museum, reflecting the immediate area. Aren't the artifacts from local shipwrecks exciting?

Roanoke Island Festival Park is a historic site in North Carolina, situated at the end of NC 400 in Manteo, on Roanoke Island. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the past of this region.

Have a look and learn how it was when people had to be self-sufficient. Also there is a raptor center on the way to the Plantation.

The North Carolina Maritime Museum is a system of regional museums within the North Carolina Museum of History , which in turn part of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources . There are several branches of the Maritime Museum located in Beaufort , Southport and Hatteras .

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, previously known as the Afro-American Cultural Center, is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The center is named after Harvey Gantt, who was the first African-American mayor of the city and the first African-American student at Clemson University. This center is a significant landmark that showcases the rich history and culture of African-Americans.

Tryon Palace, located in New Bern, North Carolina, is a modern reconstruction of the historical colonial royal palace of the governors of the province of North Carolina. This site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur and elegance of the colonial era. The palace was meticulously reconstructed in the 1950s on the site of the original mansion, making it a significant historical site in the state.

The Levine Museum of the New South is a history museum situated in Charlotte, North Carolina. The museum's exhibits primarily focus on life in the North Carolina Piedmont region following the American Civil War. This provides a unique perspective on the region's history and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history.

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, located in Hatteras Village, North Carolina, is a maritime museum with a focus on the maritime history and shipwrecks of the Outer Banks. The museum offers a unique insight into the rich maritime history of the region, showcasing the remains of hundreds of ships that were sunk due to war, piracy, or weather.

The Weatherspoon Art Museum, situated at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, is recognized as one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the southeast. The museum primarily focuses on American art, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists interested in American art history.

The North Carolina Aquariums is a network of three public aquariums situated in Kure Beach, Roanoke Island, and Pine Knoll Shores. These aquariums have been managed by the Aquariums Division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources since 1976. Each location offers unique exhibits and programs, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the state's diverse aquatic ecosystems.

Stagville Plantation, situated in Durham County, North Carolina, holds a significant place in American history as it was part of one of the largest plantation complexes in the South. This vast complex, with buildings dating from the late 18th to the mid-19th century, provides a unique insight into the region's past.

The Museum of the Albemarle, situated in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, functions as the northeastern regional branch of the North Carolina Museum of History. This location is significant as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and culture of the northeastern region of North Carolina.

Discovery Place Science is a museum dedicated to science and technology, situated in Uptown, Charlotte, North Carolina. It offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to all ages, making it an ideal destination for families, school groups, and individuals with a keen interest in science and technology.

The Neuseway Nature Center and Planetarium houses a 52-seat planetarium, along with permanent exhibits that focus on public health, courtesy of Lenoir Memorial Hospital. Additionally, it features an exhibit of space memorabilia, donated by a former NASA engineer. These exhibits provide a comprehensive understanding of health and space exploration.

The Pendergrass Building, located at 6 West Main Street in Franklin, North Carolina, is a historic commercial building. This location is significant as it is the site of the Macon County Historical Society and Museum.

The Dr. Calvin Jones House is a significant historical site located in Wake Forest, Wake County, North Carolina. This plantation home, built around 1820, offers a glimpse into the past and the rich history of the area. It was originally owned by Dr. Calvin Jones, a physician and the mayor of Raleigh, North Carolina. The house has been moved three times in its history, with its final move in 1956 to its current location on a 4.5-acre lot.

The Henderson County Courthouse, also known as the Historic Henderson County Courthouse and the Old Henderson County Courthouse, is a significant historic site in Hendersonville, North Carolina. This 3-story brick gold-domed Classical Revival style courthouse building is located at One Historic Courthouse Square, at the corner of 1st and Main streets. Its architectural style and historical significance make it a notable landmark in the area.

The Jesse Helms Center in Wingate, North Carolina, offers a comprehensive collection of U.S. Senator Jesse Helms' personal and professional artifacts. Visitors can explore a wide range of materials, including Helms' papers, letters, speeches, and transcripts of his televised editorials for WRAL-TV. The center also houses books of faith and a replica of his Senate desk and office, providing a unique insight into the life and career of this influential figure.

The Ashe County Courthouse, located in Jefferson, North Carolina, is a historic Beaux Arts style building that was constructed in 1904. This architectural gem is not only a testament to the rich history of the area, but also a beautiful example of the Beaux Arts style, which was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Aurora Fossil Museum, located in Aurora, North Carolina, is a natural science museum. It is a place where visitors can explore the fascinating world of fossils and learn about the geological history of the area. The museum's collection is built around fossils recovered from the nearby phosphate mine and includes specimens from around the world.

Körner's Folly is a historic home situated in Kernersville, Forsyth County, North Carolina. This unique dwelling was constructed in 1880 by Jule Gilmer Körner, a man who made his fortune through one of the first national advertising campaigns. The house is a testament to Körner's eccentricity and creativity, with its unusual architecture and Victorian furniture.

The Bald Head Lighthouse, also known as Old Baldy, holds the title of the oldest standing coastal lighthouse in North Carolina. It is located on Bald Head Island near Cape Fear in Brunswick County. This historic lighthouse has been a beacon for ships since the 19th century, guiding them through the dangerous shoals at the mouth of the Cape Fear River.

The Avery County Historical Museum, originally known as the Avery County Jail, is a historic site located in Newland, Avery County, North Carolina. This unique museum was once a functioning jail, providing a unique glimpse into the past.

Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve is a state park located in Moore County, North Carolina. It spans across 915 acres in the Sandhills region of the state. This region is known for its unconsolidated sand, which is part of the Quaternary Pinehurst Formation. This sand is believed to have been blown by the wind and mobilized episodically from approximately 75,000 to 6,000 years ago.

The Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station (CLSS) is a historical site located in Rodanthe, North Carolina. It was once a station for the United States Life-Saving Service and the United States Coast Guard. The station is situated on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and rich history.