North Carolina's Most Historical Sites

Are you planning a visit to North Carolina and want to visit one of the state's most historic sites? There are many amazing sites to check out; let's take a look at the top seven most historical sites in North Carolina.

From the beautiful east coast to the rolling Appalachian mountains, North Carolina is one of the most beautiful states in the country. Not only is it stunning, but you'll find plenty of fun-filled attractions, prime real estate, and a deep history.

Since 1775, NC has been known as the first colony to declare independence from Great Britain. Nicknamed the Tar Heel State, NC has grown to become one of the most popular places to live in the country. The National Register of Historic Places has documented about 2,900 structures, sites, and properties across the state. Luckily, many of the interesting historical sites are still standing, and you can even visit them yourself.

North Carolina has many pros and cons; be sure to consider your location while preparing to move. From lighthouses to memorials to battleships, there are plenty of exciting sites to see, and we are glad to be here to help you learn all about them. You might find yourself wanting to move, but luckily, NC offers many amazing cities and towns. Check out the top seven most historical sites in NC.

Keep reading to learn all you can about the top seven historical sites in NC.

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Located in Kill Devil Hills, the Wright Brothers National Memorial is a sight to see. Be prepared to walk up a steep hill, but once you get to the top, you'll see the amazing view. Atop the hill is the 60-foot granite monument, dedicated in 1932, commemorating the achievement of the Wright brothers creating the first successful powered flights. 

Back between 1900 and 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright came to NC from Dayton, Ohio, with the dream to fly. After three years of gliding experiences on this hill, the brothers made four flights on December 17, 1903. 

Not only can you walk along the actual routes of the four flights, but you can explore the two wooden sheds that are based on historic photographs to recreate the first airplane hanger and the Wright brothers living quarters. 

After exploring the airplane hanger, check out the visitor center museum to see models and actual tools and machines used by the Wright brothers during their experiments. Finally, you'll have the chance to see a life-size replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer, the first powered aircraft in history to achieve controlled flight. This is one of the best historical attractions for the whole family to enjoy. 

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site was built to protect and preserve the known portions of England's first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590. Preserving the cultural heritage of Native Americans, European Americans, and African Americans who have lived on Roanoke Island is one of the site's main purposes. 

You'll have the chance to visit the visitor center, which is home to many interesting exhibits on ALogquian, the English, the Roanoke Island Freedman's Colony, the Civil War Battle of Roanoke Island, and Reginald Fessenden. 

If you're interested in a more hands-on experience, check out the 1896 Monument, First Light of Freedom monument, the 1.25-mile long Freedom Trail, the 0.3-mile Thoman Hariot Trail, the Waterside Theatre, and even try your hand at fishing along the Albemarle Sound. 

No matter how you choose to spend your time at the first English settlement in the present-day U.S., you'll have fun and learning opportunities free of charge.

Battleship USS North Carolina

Located in the beautiful city of Wilmington, the Battleship USS North Carolina is one of the best historical sites in the state. The gigantic battleship had participated in every naval offensive in the Pacific theater of operations during World War 11. It has been authentically restored, so you can come visit and learn all about it.

You can either explore the nine levels, gun turrets, and early computers, read the crew stories, see where they ate, slept, and worked on your own, or take a guided tour. 

There are even many fun and interactive programs throughout the year, with no extra charge. Discover the unrestored areas on the battleship, participate in hands-on opportunities, or see interpreters re-enact daily duties and drills. 

After walking. through the entire battleship, you can walk out to the pavilion overlooking Downtown Wilmington across the Cape Fear River. As the first vessel of this type built for the United States Navy, it will be an experience like no other, and you won't want to miss out. 

Biltmore

On the western side of the state, in the beautiful town of Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is one of the most well-known historical home sites in the country. Whether you're here for fun, education, or pleasure, there's an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities to take part in.

You'll have the opportunity to shop, tour, partake in special events, try the fantastic wine and cuisine, or explore the 20+ miles of nature trails. The 8,000-acre estate is a one-of-a-kind experience. Not only is the estate marvelous, but there is a spectacular art exhibition and an award-winning Winery. 

Visitors from all over flock to see the stunning Estate with their own eyes. The Vanderbilt family lived in the castle up until the 1950s, when the family turned it into a historic house museum. 

Don't miss out on your chance to see the largest privately-owned home in the United States. Ticket prices do vary depending on the type of tour and time of year, so make sure to check out their website before planning your trip. 

Locomotive No. 12

Otherwise known as Tweetsie for the sharp tweet tweet of its whistle, the 100-year-old North Carolina Steam Locomotive No. 12 is one of Western N.C.'s gems. Back in the beginning of railroads, this locomotive carried passengers and iron ore through the Blue Ridge Mountains until 1950, and now it is the only surviving steam locomotive of the East Tennesee and Western North Carolina Railroad.

Now stationed at Tweetie Railroad, the locomotive is one of the best attractions in the area. Attracting over 250,000 visitors per year, the railroad has its own Wild West theme park in Blowing Rock, NC. In addition, there is a narrow-gauge steam locomotive shop that maintains and fixes engines for other theme parks like Disney World and Busch Gardens. 

Explore the rides, trains, live entertainment, deer park zoo, and dining and shopping options. This is one of the best places for the whole family to enjoy as the kids can take part in many fun activities like gold panning, gem mining, arcade games, the playground, the Ferris wheel, and much more. 

There is a small fee to enter, but make sure to check their website, as ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and your age. 

Roanoke Island Festival Park

Stretched over 27 acres, the Roanoke Island Festival Park gives visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience first-hand what life was like for the first English settlers in 1585. However, the colony mysteriously vanished and became known as the Lost Colony.

For a small ticket price, you can gain access to the Adventure Museum, above deck on the Elizabeth II, American Indian Town, and the Settlement Site.

In the center is the Elizabeth II, a representation of one of the seven English ships from the Roanoke Voyage in 1585. Here, you can climb aboard and explore the entire ship. There are countless opportunities for guests to learn about the deep history and traditions. 

During the Summer months, many concerts are held in the Outdoor Pavilion, which is also available for wedding and reception rentals. There are even festivals held at the park throughout the year, like the Bluegrass Island Music Festival, which is coming up between October 19, 20,23 and October 21, 2023. 

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Located on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of three historic lighthouses in the park. Infamously painted with black and white stripes in 1873, it is the tallest brick lighthouse in the United States. 

At first, in 1799, the lighthouse only stood 90 feet tall with a lamp powered by whale oil. However, as years went by, it was unable to efficiently warn shops of the dangerous shoals because the unpainted sandstone blended in too well, and the light wasn't strong enough. in 1853, 60 feet was added to the height, and again in 1868, more repairs were needed.

Finally, in 1873, the lighthouse was painted as a daymark, and a light sequence was added as a nighmark to make it more recognizable to mariners. After many alterations, it now stands at 198.49 feet and is in the hands of the National Park Service in the Outer Banks. 

In the present day, guests can visit the lighthouse and the outdoor areas to learn more about its history. 

FAQ: Most Historical Sites in NC

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the most historical sites in NC.

What is the most historic site in North Carolina?

The most historical site in NC is the infamous Wright Brothers National Memorial. 

What is North Carolina known for historically?

North Carolina's history goes very far back, starting as allegedly the first colony to declare independence from Great Britain. After the American Revolution, NC became the twelfth state of the Union, and in 1861, it seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy in the Civil War. 

What is North Carolina's most famous landmark?

NC is known for many famous landmarks; the Biltmore Estate, Chimney Rock State Park, and The Saluda Grade are some of the most famous landmarks across the state. 

What is the oldest town in NC?

Bath is known as the oldest town in NC, established in 1705. It was the first chartered town in the state and an essential colonial port of entry. 

What is North Carolina's number 1 attraction?

The most visited attraction in North Carolina is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With about 12 million annual visitors, you can experience all the beauty and fun that this national park can offer. 

Most Historical Sites in NC - The Bottom Line

All and all, North Carolina has more than enough to offer you. Not only are there many fun-filled historical sites to visit, but there are delicious restaurants, fun events, bars, coffee shops, and attractions to check out.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something fun to do, each historical site is special and absolutely worth a visit from the whole family. Check out the best historical sites in Raleigh for more information.

If you're interested in moving to North Carolina and want to learn more about the Triangle, feel free to contact one of our helpful Real Estate specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect home. We know that buying a new home can be highly stressful and overwhelming; here are a couple more guides to help you with the process:

How Much Money Should You Save Before Buying a House?

What are Prepaid Costs When Buying a Home?

Hidden Costs When Buying a Home