Battleship North Carolina

Standing with quiet dignity and majesty across the Cape Fear River from downtown Wilmington, the Battleship North Carolina is an authentically restored World War II-era combatant. She stands as a proud reminder of American efforts during a most significant period in our country’s history in the 20th century. The Battleship NORTH CAROLINA is a powerful example of a capital ship which historically is the most capable class of major combatants in the U.S. Navy and named for States in the Union. This Battleship served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. In addition to being a memorial, the Battleship is a museum with a large collection of documents, artwork, photographs, textiles, memorabilia and oral history. The self-guided tour is well marked so that you can tour at your own pace; it takes approximately two hours to complete. For the mobility challenger, the main deck and a part of the interior of the main deck is accessible. A pending restoration project will increase accessibility to most of the interior main deck spaces and exhibit area.

Begin the tour at the Visitors Center with an orientation film and exhibits and conclude your visit in the Ship’s Store where you will find a selection of books, gifts, Battleship apparel and other naval or nautical items available for purchase.

The Battleship North Carolina is open every day of the year, including all holidays, as the ship is a memorial. Bring family and friends to see where sailors fought and lived for the freedoms we enjoy today.

Summer Hours
Open Memorial weekend thru Labor Day from 8am – 8pm
July 4th when the ship closes at 6pm to prepare for fireworks

Winter Hours
After Labor Day weekend thru Thursday prior to Memorial Day weekend from 8 am – 5pm
Christmas Day the ship opens at noon

The ship is located approximately 33 miles from Oak Island via US 17 North. Follow signs for the Battleship Memorial.

Cost:
Adult (age 12 and older): $12.00
Senior (age 65 and older): $10.00
Military (with ID): $10.00
Child (age 6 to 11): $6.00
Age 5 and under get in for free

Explore Oak Island

Interesting Fact: From the early days of sail, the Lucky Bag was a bag into which misplaced items found aboard the vessel were put. In more recent naval days, the Lucky Bag is a small storeroom or large locker where master-at-arms stow articles of clothing, bedding, various personal items and miscellaneous objects found on deck.

Activities You'll Love

• Old Smithville Burying Ground
• Old Southport Jail
• Fort Fisher
• Battleship North Carolina
• Old Brunswick Town
• Historic Southport
• Fort Caswell