Battleship North Carolina

This battleship was the first ship of its kind to be built and earned 15 battle stars during WWII. Today it's a museum and commemorates the brave soldiers from North Carolina that were lost.

You’ll find the Battleship North Carolina, a memorial to those that served in World War II, docked in the coastal town of Wilmington. The USS North Carolina is a BB-55 ship and was the first of its kind built for the Navy in 1941, and the first battleship to be built in 16 years. The vessel also earned 15 battle stars, making it one of the most decorated battleships during WWII.

Today, visitors can step aboard the Battleship North Carolina and explore its decks, from the gun turrets and main deck to the engine room. There is also the Roll of Honor exhibit on the ship’s Main Deck, which honors the 11,081 soldiers from North Carolina that lost their lives for their country. Guests are welcome to take their time seeing the various displays and really dive into the history embedded on this vessel via self-guided tours, but different guided tours are also offered if you prefer to learn about historical sites like this from an expert and want deeper insight into the sailors’ lives.

On top of its historical significance, visitors to the battleship will also receive unmatched views of the Cape Fear River and the Wilmington skyline. If you're a history buff, want to learn more about this iconic battleship, or you’re looking for a profound destination where you can have a moment of reflection, the Battleship North Carolina is a top-notch place to spend time here in Wilmington.