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Posted By Wilmington NC Business Directory Wilmingtonlist on 04-10-2024 6:48 AM

Description

 you're a history buff or just someone who appreciates a glimpse into the past, the USS North Carolina Battleship in Wilmington is an absolute must-visit. This imposing steel warship served proudly in World War II and now offers a fascinating step back in time through its meticulously preserved decks and exhibits.

The BattlesShip's Story

Construction on the USS North Carolina began in 1937, with her launch and commissioning following a few years later in 1941 - just in time for the ship's call to action after Pearl Harbor. She was the world's first battleship to be armed with 16-inch guns and boasted an impressive nine promotional battle stars over the course of her service.

The North Carolina saw intense combat, providing firepower and shelling enemy positions during the invasions of Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and other key Pacific campaigns. After escorting the Missouri to the Japanese surrender in 1945, she was decommissioned in 1947.

Rather than being scrapped, the ship found new purpose when Wilmington was chosen as the site for the first battleship memorial on the eastern seaboard in 1962. She was towed from Bayonne, New Jersey to her current berth along the Cape Fear River to serve as a museum ship honoring her remarkable service and crew.

Exploring the Battleship Decks

Climbing aboard the USS North Carolina instantly transports you into a midcentury naval time capsule. A well-mapped self-guided tour route allows you to wander the decks, peer through portholes, and envision life as a sailor during those historic years.

Don't miss exploring areas like the bridge, with its wooden wheel and maps still intact, or venturing below deck into the crews' bunk rooms and mess decks. You'll get an up-close look at the immense 16-inch gun batteries that made this ship such a powerful force.

The attention to preserving authentic details is remarkable, from ammunition lockers to the original operating equipment. Guided tour options are also available if you'd like more personalized insights from the dedicated staff.

Museum and Exhibits

Complementing the onboard decks is an impressive museum and visitor center located on the grounds surrounding the ship. Multimedia exhibits offer in-depth overviews of the North Carolina's wartime journeys, featuring firsthand crew accounts, artifacts, and historical footage.

You'll learn about the intricate skills of sailors and daily routines, the cutting-edge technologies that gave this battleship its advantages, and the key battles that earned her enduring acclaim. The museum also hosts rotating special exhibits, educational events, and community programming related to naval history and appreciation.

Interactive displays get visitors involved in the action, such as the chance to virtually command the ship or experience the rumble of the big guns firing off a broadside. Kids especially love these hands-on elements and being able to clamber on certain segments of the decks.

A visit provides an authentic glimpse into early 20th century maritime life and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave crews that helmed this historic vessel through treacherous waters.

Planning Your Visit

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the USS North Carolina is its extremely convenient location and ease of accessing this impressive attraction. Here's a guide to planning your battleship visit:

Getting There Address: 1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401

The battleship is hard to miss - its massive hull is visible just off Highway 76/Oleander Drive a few miles north of downtown Wilmington. It's about a 7 minute drive from the heart of the city's historic district.

For GPS, simply input "USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial" and you'll be guided right to the clearly marked entrance and parking area along the Cape Fear River.

If you are using rideshares or getting dropped off, there is a designated visitor pickup/drop-off zone right at the front entrance.

Parking: There is an expansive paid parking lot directly next to the battleship memorial where visitors can easily park cars, RVs and buses. Rates are $5 per vehicle.

Parking payment is made via kiosk upon entry using credit card only. Handicap parking is available in the front row closest to the entrance plaza.

Once parked, it's just a short walk over the footbridge spanning the river inlet to arrive at the main entrance and visitor services area.

Tickets & Tours General admission for self-guided tours of the battleship and full access to the exhibits/grounds:

• Adults (12+): $14
• Children (6-11): $6
• Kids 5 & under: Free

A variety of discounts are available for seniors, active military, AAA members, and other groups.

To enhance your experience, guided tour options include:

• Guided Deck Tour ($4 add-on) - Get personalized narration from docents as you explore the ship's key areas.
• Below Decks Tour ($5 add-on) - Take an in-depth guided look into areas like the engine room that are usually off-limits.
• Battleship Camp for Kids - Week-long immersive programs offered seasonally.

Purchasing your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, as tours can sell out during peak times.

Plan Your Visit The memorial is open daily from 8am to 8pm from April through October. Winter hours from November through March are 8am to 5pm.

In order to reasonably experience all the exhibits indoors and the self-guided tour route across the ship decks, you'll want to budget at least 2–3 hours for your visit. Adding a guided tour allows even deeper immersion.

Other Amenities The grounds provide a nice grassy area for picnicking as well as benches along the riverwalk area adjoining the ship. A cafe is available for snacks and light meals, if you prefer.

Don't forget to check out the well-stocked gift shop with unique North Carolina and naval-themed souvenirs, merchandise, books and other items to commemorate your memorable battleship visit.

Staying Hydrated and Comfortable Note that, despite being docked, the metal decks of the ship can get quite hot during the summer months. Wear comfortable shoes ideal for walking and climbing stairs. Having water bottles and taking breaks in the shade is recommended.

By planning ahead for parking, tickets, and attire and allowing plenty of time on-site, you'll be fully prepared to experience and appreciate the remarkable USS North Carolina and all this historic battleship has to offer in Wilmington.