The flight only lasted 12 seconds and traveled a mere 120 feet, but it was enough to change the course of human history. Today Kill Devil Hills on the once-isolated Outer Banks where mankind first flew stands as the state’s most historic place.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
The outdoor replica of the Wright flyer is perfect for aspiring aviators to climb and explore. When they're finished climbing, race them to the monument at top of the hill.
The memorial at this most historic place includes a visitors center with exhibits featuring the history of the Wright family and the ground-breaking aeronautical engineering studies pioneered by Orville and Wilbur Wright.
Today at the Wright Brothers Memorial, you can walk the flight path that the first flyer passed over and see a replica of the Wright Brothers camp to experience how they lived, serviced their flying machines and eventually flew.
Walk the flight path of the Wright flyer to appreciate how quickly technology advanced following that first flight in 1903.
You can also climb to the top of Kill Devil Hill to study the 60-foot-tall granite monument erected to commemorate the historic achievement. Among the crowd of celebrities and aviation enthusiasts present for the laying of the monument cornerstone were Orville Wright and Amelia Earhart.
Visitors Center
Inside the visitors center you'll find a replica of the Wright flyer and plenty of displays and exhibits about the research the Wright's invested in their flying ambitions.
The memorial is open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed Christmas Day. Check the memorial website for updated information about hours and closures.
The Wright Brothers National Memorial charges an entrance fee of $10 per person over 15.
You can get out of the summer heat inside the visitors center and restrooms are on site. The memorial is at 1000 North Croatan Highway, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948.
Explore the history of the Wright family and their aviation dreams at the Wright Brothers National Memorial visitors center.
Plenty More To Do In The Outer Banks
No trip to the Outer Banks is complete without taking in a few things to do in Corolla and all of its attractions, or a tour to see the wild horses of the Outer Banks.
