Battleship North Carolina Tours

Battleship North Carolina featuring heritage elements as well as a small group of people
Battleship North Carolina showing heritage elements and interior views
Battleship North Carolina showing heritage elements as well as a small group of people
Battleship North Carolina showing interior views and heritage elements
Battleship North Carolina featuring heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Take a tour of the lead ship of North Carolina-class battleships and learn about U.S. Navy history in a unique and adventurous way.

See Battleship North Carolina, the third U.S. Navy warship to be named in honor of the State of North Carolina and now serving as a memorial in Wilmington. With a number of programs and tours available, visiting the warship is an exciting way to learn about life in the U.S. Navy and World War II history.

Book a self-guided tour of the battleship with a Behind the Hatch program. Work your way up from the inner bottom to the fire control tower at the top. Explore the vast network of rooms, the mess, the bridge and other sections of this impressive warship. The Behind the Hatch program is a great way to focus on sections of the ship that interest you the most.

Wander the warship and learn how the crew confronts survivability issues with the Damage Control program. Discover how the crew keeps the ship afloat in moments of crisis, such as the Japanese submarine torpedo attack on September 15, 1942.

Take on the Firepower Program and see the warship’s 16-inch (40.6-centimeter) and 5-inch (12.77-centimeter) guns. Learn about the ammunition loading compartments and other weapons systems onboard. From radar to optical range finders, the presenters will educate you on how the warship operated in various wartime maneuvers.

Embark on the 4-hour Hidden Battleship tour for the true adventurer. Explore the bow where you will discover the officers’ country and boatswain locker. See the torpedo area and the engineer’s office on the third deck. Enter Radio II for a lesson from the Azalea Coast Radio Club on the ship’s transmitters.

The warship also offers a Back Porch Tour for visitors with limited mobility or those who would rather learn about the ship from the comfort of the visitor center. Admission fees depend on the experience you wish to have. Explore the ship year-round, including all holidays. Use free parking next to the memorial or take the water taxi across the Cape Fear River from downtown Wilmington.

Stop at the visitor center at the Battleship North Carolina to plan your adventure aboard this remarkable U.S. Navy warship.

Plan a trip to see Battleship North Carolina

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Smoketree Lodge

Smoketree Lodge

3 out of 5
Price was $1,031, price is now $611 per person
$611
per person
Dec 16 - Dec 19
found 12 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Miami (MIA) to Asheville (AVL)
8.6/10 Excellent! (228 reviews)
The property is old and dated, but was nice. They have an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, with a great view of the mountain. The lobby is nice, and the grills outside were nice because of the garden area.

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2025

Blowing Rock Inn

Blowing Rock Inn

2.5 out of 5
Downtown Blowing Rock
Price was $1,093, price is now $646 per person
$646
per person
Dec 16 - Dec 19
found 12 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Miami (MIA) to Asheville (AVL)
9/10 Wonderful! (775 reviews)
Great location and the room is clean and comfortable. It's not fancy but we just slept there. There is no staff on site, you have to go to the property across the street. The wifi went out so that made the TV unusable, but all in all the stay was fine.

Reviewed on Oct 9, 2025

The Highlands at Sugar

The Highlands at Sugar

3 out of 5
Price was $1,112, price is now $663 per person
$663
per person
Dec 16 - Dec 19
found 12 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Miami (MIA) to Asheville (AVL)
8.2/10 Very Good! (743 reviews)
The property is older but well maintained. The unit we were assigned had an old, lumpy or cheap mattress and the headboard squeaks when you move in the bed.

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2025

Reviews of Battleship North Carolina

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
152
5 - Excellent 63%
4 - Good
81
4 - Good 34%
3 - Okay
7
3 - Okay 3%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Bob

Ship's bridge closed for maintenance during our visit, otherwise fine. Lots of history.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

I would recommend going in the morning. The ship is HOT.

Popular places to visit

Eating dinner and watching the sunset on the Boardwalk in Wilmington, NC

Riverwalk

After visiting Riverwalk, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Wilmington. Amble around the area's riverfront or experience its festivals.

Riverwalk
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

Enjoy a show at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, a theater with a story to tell in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.

Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Bellamy Mansion Museum which includes a house, heritage architecture and a fountain

Bellamy Mansion Museum

Follow curving paths in the lush Victorian-style gardens and explore this opulent mansion in the heart of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina.

Bellamy Mansion Museum
Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens

Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens, a lovely green space in Wilmington. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens

City Stage Theatre

Get tickets for a show at City Stage Theatre, a storied theater in Wilmington. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

City Stage Theatre

Children's Museum of Wilmington

You can take time to visit Children's Museum of Wilmington during your travels to Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.

Children's Museum of Wilmington

Best Lodging Options Near Battleship North Carolina

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
301 N Water St, Wilmington, NC
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront

3.5 out of 5
9 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn

Best Western Plus Coastline Inn

2.5 out of 5
503 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn
ARRIVE Wilmington

ARRIVE Wilmington

4 out of 5
101 S. Second St., Wilmington, NC
ARRIVE Wilmington
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center

Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center

3 out of 5
501 NUTT STREET, Wilmington, NC
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District

Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District

3 out of 5
229 North 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District
Hampton Inn by Hilton Wilmington Downtown

Hampton Inn by Hilton Wilmington Downtown

2.5 out of 5
225 Grace St, Wilmington, NC
Hampton Inn by Hilton Wilmington Downtown
Water Street Retreats

Water Street Retreats

3.5 out of 5
106 N. Water St., Wilmington, NC
Water Street Retreats
Dreamers BNB

Dreamers BNB

3.5 out of 5
118 S 4th St, Wilmington, NC
Dreamers BNB
See all 1,702 properties in Battleship North Carolina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Battleship North Carolina

While visiting the Battleship North Carolina, you can enjoy various activities like boating and sports. Don't miss out on the available tours to explore the historic battleship, and consider attending the annual Christmas festival for a festive experience. This combination of history and seasonal celebration makes for an engaging visit in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is The Cotton Exchange, just 0.4 miles away, offering a variety of local shops and restaurants. If you're up for a drive, visit Mayfaire Town Center, 7 miles away, for more entertainment and shopping options, or South End Surf Shop, 9 miles away, for unique surf gear.

Recreation

Experience live music at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion, just a mile from Battleship North Carolina, offering vibrant entertainment vibes. For outdoor enthusiasts, Magnolia Greens Golf Plantation, 5 miles away, provides a scenic golf experience. Alternatively, unwind at Freeman Park, 12 miles away, with its tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the scenic Riverwalk, a vibrant boardwalk 0.3 miles from Battleship North Carolina, perfect for leisurely strolls by the water. For family fun, head to Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, 6 miles away, offering thrilling rides and water attractions. Don’t miss Wrightsville SUP, 9 miles away, for an exciting paddleboarding adventure.

Nightlife

In Battleship North Carolina, Thalian Hall offers cultural performances just a half-mile away, while City Stage Theatre, only 0.3 miles away, provides family-friendly entertainment. For adventure seekers, Topsail Skating Rink, located 21 miles away, promises fun-filled arcade games and activities.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Battleship North Carolina

While visiting the Battleship North Carolina, explore the vibrant downtown Wilmington, where you can enjoy local shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the iconic USS Battleship North Carolina itself, a key historical attraction. Nearby urban parks offer a chance to relax and soak in the scenery, making it a perfect mix of culture, family activities, and city experiences for all travelers.

  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington: Located 5 miles from the Battleship North Carolina, this vibrant university offers a lively campus atmosphere, with impressive architecture and beautiful outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore its scenic gardens and enjoy the arts and cultural events hosted throughout the year.
  • Wilmington Convention Center: Situated just 0.5 miles away, this modern convention center is ideal for attending various events and conferences. With its sleek design and waterfront views, it's a hub for business activities and large gatherings in the heart of Wilmington.
  • Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College: Only 0.7 miles from the Battleship, this state-of-the-art entertainment facility hosts a variety of performances and shows. It's a great place for families to enjoy concerts, theater productions, and cultural events in a welcoming environment.

Best time to go to Battleship North Carolina

The best time to visit Battleship North Carolina is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
March55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July80.6°F (27.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September75.4°F (24.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Battleship North Carolina

To save money on your visit to Battleship North Carolina, plan your trip between December and February for lower accommodation rates, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid the peak summer months, as prices are higher then. Use Expedia to customize your hotel search by budget and preferences, and consider eco-friendly options. Bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to additional savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Look for free activities in Wilmington to enhance your experience without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Battleship North Carolina are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Battleship North Carolina is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Battleship North Carolina is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Battleship North Carolina with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia