Wright Brothers National Memorial

Things To Do Near Wright Brothers National Memorial

The Wright Brothers National Memorial brings the famous story of the first flight to life. Start your trip at the visitor center, where you can learn about the brothers' experiments and find out how their "soaring machines" evolved over time. Then head out to the trail network to see the Wright brothers' camp, the location of the first flight, and the glider hill. Nearby, the town of Kitty Hawk is your gateway to the beaches and wilderness areas of the beautiful Outer Banks.

Hiking Trails

• Flight Line Trail

  Get a sense of the Wright Brothers' first powered flight on the Flight Line Trail. The Flight Line section of the trail features stones that mark the takeoff and landing points the brothers hit on their first day of successful flights. From there, the trail travels over to the Wright Memorial Loop Road and the Wright Brothers Monument. This section is paved and easy to access with strollers and wheelchairs.

  Location

  Vistor Center

  Length

  0.4 Mile one way

  Intensity

  Easy

• Wright Brothers Monument Trails

  The Wright Brothers Monument Trails wrap around and up the sides of Kill Devil Hill. If you hike around the base of the hill, the path is approximately 1 mile; leave more time if you want to climb the paths up to the monument. Most of the trails are wide and paved, so they're easy to access for visitors of all abilities. From the top, there's a beautiful view down the Flight Line. You can walk to the trails from the visitor center or park at one of the lots that line Wright Memorial Loop Road. Bring water if you're visiting in the summer because there's no shade, and the incline can be taxing. 

  Location

  Wright Memorial Loop Road, Wright Brothers Monument

  Length

  Varies

  Intensity

  Easy to Moderate

Sightseeing

• Wright Brothers Monument

  You can see the Wright Brothers Monument from anywhere in the Wright Brothers National Memorial — it features a tall stone pillar that sits on top of Kill Devil Hill. The monument marks the spot where the brothers tested their gliders; its steep sides helped the aircraft gain momentum and, eventually, lift into the air.

  Location

  Kill Devil Hill

• December 17, 1903 Sculpture

  The best way to get a sense of the size and scale of the Wright brothers' early aircraft is the December 17, 1903 Sculpture. It shows the first moment where Orville Wright first lifted off the ground in his primitive airplane. Feel free to get close and to climb on the sculpture; the National Park Service calls it a "please-touch" work of art.

  Location

  South side of Kill Devil Hill

• Reconstructed 1903 Camp Buildings

  The reconstructed 1903 camp buildings showcase the living and working conditions of the Wright brothers when they were building and testing airplanes in Kitty Hawk. The brothers built the original structures themselves. At the time, the area was mostly unpopulated. The buildings sit a short walk from the visitor center, where you can see photos of the original camp.

  Location

  Visitor Center

Museums

• Island Farm

  Step back in time at Island Farm. This living history museum puts you in the center of a mid-1800s pioneer settlement. Actors play the parts of local farmers and families, so you can watch as island life unfolds. Check out agricultural activities, see a blacksmith at work, and head to the house to see women preparing food and weaving. 

  Location

  1140 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954

• Roanoke Maritime Museum

  The Outer Banks have played an important role in the fishing and seafaring history of North Carolina. Find out more at the Roanoke Maritime Museum, which is located in the George Washington Creef Boathouse. Here, you can see different types of boats, learn about boat building, and examine historic photos.

  Location

  104 Fernando Street, Manteo, NC 27954

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Sunsations, Inc.

  Whether you need a last-minute sun hat or a souvenir, Sunsations, Inc. has you covered. This classic beach shop offers everything from sunglasses to North Carolina-themed clothing. You'll also find shells, Outer Banks gear, and beach supplies.

  Location

  710 S. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

• 17th Street Surf Shop

  Get ready for the beach or the skate park at 17th Street Surf Shop. In addition to surfboard and skateboard gear, the shop carries a variety of T-shirts you won't find anywhere else in town.

  Location

  1007 S. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

• Holistic Pet Shop

  If you love to find new and unique ways to pamper your pet, head straight to Holistic Pet Shop. Specializing in food and products that are good for cats and dogs, this is a convenient spot to pick up natural items.

  Location

  3105 N. Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

• The Colington Café

  Tucked into an adorable Victorian cottage, The Colington Café is a lovely spot for a dinner with friends or a loved one. Enjoy crab cakes or filet mignon. The restaurant also offers a small selection of pasta and chicken dishes.

  Location

  1029 Colington Road, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

• Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

  Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint delivers exactly what its name promises: fantastic burgers and a wide selection of beer. The interior features thick wooden beams and a rustic, beach-shack vibe, creating the perfect atmosphere for a lively dinner. On sunny days, bring your food out to the fenced-in outdoor seating area.

  Location

  800 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

• Single Fin Thai-Sushi Restaurant

  Try a spicy tuna roll or a plate of coconut curry at Single Fin Thai-Sushi Restaurant. One of the most popular spots for sushi in the Outer Banks, this restaurant is known for its friendly service and authentic flavors.

  Location

  2424 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC 27959

How To Get To Wright Brothers National Memorial

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, just off US-150. If you're coming from the north, take US-158 South from Barco or Elizabeth City. From the south, take US-64 or US-264 to Manteo, and head north on US-158 near Nags Head. The park is open year-round and only closes on Christmas Day.

Address

1000 North Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948

Fee: Entry Fee (per adult age 16+) $10.0

Fee: Entry Fee (per child ages 15 and younger) $0

The Wright Brothers National Memorial brings the remarkable history of flight to life. With its unique setup, it can keep kids and adults engaged for hours. Extend your time in the wild, windy Outer Banks by visiting the memorial in an RV and camping at one of the beautiful local campgrounds.