Battleship North Carolina

The 728-foot World War II-era battleship draws visitors from around the country and the world. It is moored in Wilmington as a museum and memorial to the 11,000 North Carolina men who died in the war.

Its berth is in the Cape Fear River near downtown. But rising seas are bringing more frequent and severe tidal flooding to the park. Read on for some ideas.

History

The battleship that sits across from downtown Wilmington, memorializing World War II veterans and the 11,000 North Carolinians who died in the conflict, came to the state following a years-long effort to save it from a breaker’s yard. The effort was funded dime-by-dime by schoolchildren across the state.

And yet the site, which includes a park and parking lot, now faces an unexpected threat from encroaching water. Bragg says the site sees flooding three out of five days a year, sometimes for hours at a time. That’s not good for business. Or the site’s visitors. That’s why they are now planting sensors to monitor sea levels.

Observation Deck

Aboard the USS North Carolina, you can take a self-guided tour of nine levels of living quarters, mess halls, gun turrets, and more. Be prepared to climb ladders and walk through non-air-conditioned tight spaces, and be sure to wear comfortable flat-soled shoes.

The “Immortal Showboat” survived every major naval offensive in the Pacific during WWII, earning 15 battle stars and becoming one of the most decorated American battleships of the war. In 1961, the battleship was brought to her namesake city and reopened as a memorial. It remains a popular attraction today. It’s easy to see why. This is a must-see for history buffs!

Education Center

Guests can explore the ship’s compartments and climb ladders to gun turrets. During their self-guided tour, they can learn about the battleship’s history. They can also see how the sailors lived aboard the ship by visiting the Bread Room, where they learned about bugs being cooked into the flour used to make bread for the crew.

The Battleship North Carolina’s story is an epic one. Its arrival in Wilmington is the result of a long, two-year campaign that involved then-N.C. Gov. Terry Sanford, Azalea Festival founder Hugh Morton, and dime-by-dime contributions from thousands of people from across the state. But the warship moored in downtown Wilmington faces an urgent challenge that will take more than pocket change to fix. This unique place is a must-see!

Shops

The USS NORTH CAROLINA is an unmistakable site across from downtown Wilmington, a World War II memorial to the 10,000 North Carolinians of all branches who died in the war. The battleship is open every day of the year (except Christmas Day) for visitors to explore its many levels and points of interest.

Walking the entire ship takes about two hours, so plan accordingly. Also, remember that much of the ship is non-air conditioned and has tight spaces, so wear comfortable shoes.

Shoppers can purchase items from the Battlestar Steel and Teak collection, which features objects made from materials recovered during the restoration of the battleship. These pieces make great souvenirs for loved ones back home.

Restaurants

Whether you are looking for an intimate dinner or a fun and lively night out on the town, Wilmington offers several options to satisfy your appetite. From seafood to pizza, the area has something for everyone.

Try a lobster roll at the Hang Ten Grill and enjoy their laid-back surfer vibe. They also have a delicious weekend brunch!

If you are craving French cuisine, visit Caprice in downtown Wilmington. Their menu includes classic dishes like steak frites and escargot, as well as waterzooi, a Flemish soup made with mussels, onions, and herbs.

For an upscale meal, head to Manna. Their beautiful interiors and cocktails make it the perfect place to impress your date. Their menu is constantly changing but try the Swine Spectator (hickory-smoked pork shoulder done Eastern North Carolina barbecue style).

Parking

The Battleship North Carolina is an unmistakable landmark across the downtown riverwalk in Wilmington, a World War II memorial that commemorates the heroism of sailors and soldiers from the state of North Carolina. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning to spend several days exploring, there are plenty of parking options nearby.

One of the main ways that people support the preservation of the ship is to purchase items from its massive gift shop, which includes a variety of unique items made with metals from the battleship itself. Visitors can also buy flags that have been flown from the main mast and a certificate of presentation. Check our next area of interest here.

 

Driving directions from Crystal Clear Shine to Battleship North Carolina

Driving directions from Battleship North Carolina to Wilmington Riverwalk