Open air museums in North Carolina

The Oconaluftee Indian Village, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a replica of an 18th-century eastern Cherokee community. Founded in 1952, the village is situated along the scenic Oconaluftee River, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past of the Cherokee people.

Fort Macon State Park is a significant historical site located in Carteret County, North Carolina. The park, which opened its doors to the public in 1936, is situated near the town of Atlantic Beach. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of American history while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is a significant historical site located at 2332 New Garden Road in Greensboro, Guilford County, North Carolina. The park commemorates the Battle of Guilford Court House, which took place on March 15, 1781. This battle was a pivotal event in the American Revolutionary War, and despite the British winning the battle, the casualties they suffered contributed to their surrender at Yorktown seven months later.

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.

Bethabara Historic District is a public park located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is home to the surviving buildings and archaeological remains of a small Moravian community that was first settled in 1753. The park offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Moravian community.

Vollis Simpson, an American 'outsider' folk artist, is renowned for his large kinetic sculptures, known as 'whirligigs'. These unique pieces of art were crafted from salvaged metal, showcasing Simpson's creativity and resourcefulness. Visitors to the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park can witness these impressive structures firsthand, gaining insight into the artist's innovative approach to art.

Historic Oak View, also known as the Williams-Wyatt-Poole Farm, is a significant site that dates back to the 19th century. It is a historic farmstead and national historic district located east of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore a piece of American history.

The John Blue House, located in Laurinburg, North Carolina, is a historic site that dates back to 1895. It was recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and architecture of the late 19th century.

Horne Creek Farm, located near Pinnacle in Surry County, North Carolina, is a significant historical site. As a North Carolina State Historic Site, it offers a unique glimpse into the past, specifically farm life in the northwest Piedmont area around the year 1900. Operated by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the farm provides an immersive experience for visitors, transporting them back to a different era.

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.

The Textile Heritage Museum, situated in Glencoe, North Carolina, is a history museum that provides a deep dive into the textile industry and the life in mill towns in North Carolina and the American south. This museum offers a unique opportunity to understand the historical context and significance of the textile industry in the region.

West Point on the Eno is a city park and historical center located in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina. The park spans a vast area of 412 acres, offering ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy. It's not just a park, but also a historical center that provides a glimpse into the region's past.

The Cedarock Historical Farm, nestled in Cedarock Park in Alamance County, North Carolina, offers a glimpse into 19th Century farm life. The farm is populated with farm animals, antique and replica farm equipment, and a farmhouse, making it an educational and enjoyable stop for visitors to the park.