Approaching the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, the colossal granite sculpture was the first monument that came into view. The shrine had been erected at the location of the first engine-powered flights on Carolina’s natural sand dunes in the year 1903.
Since Orville and Wilbur Wright flew the first airplane in 1903 at Kill Devil Hills, the field of aviation has come a long way. Two young brothers from Dayton, Ohio decided that the Outer Banks would be the perfect location for launching their aircraft based on its wide open spaces and optimal wind conditions.
The national park’s Visitor Center doubled as a small museum displaying a replica of the first airplane. In addition, relics from the Wrights’ original research and initial experiments are also exhibited. A new structure opened in 2003 marking the hundred-year anniversary of the Wright brother’s “First in Flight” accomplishment, referred to as the “Century of Flight” museum.
Within the glider room, there was a staging area for park ranger talks about the Wright Brothers and their successful attempts of flight. The walls were covered with other notable flight pioneers who have contributed to aeronautical advancement throughout the years.
Outdoors, visitors walked the Flight Line, which is the length of each of the four successful flights as indicated by stone markers. Nearby were replicas of the Wrights’ temporary living quarters and the first airplane hangar. Small monuments honoring the Wright Brothers and the first flight were sparsely staged throughout the field to include a tablet erected in 1923 by the National Aeronautical Association and a roundel of the 100th anniversary of the first flight.
During the unveiling of the 60 foot monolith memorial in 1932, Orville Wright was present. At the top of the monument is a lighthouse-like beacon at the top where, with advanced reservations, a select few can explore. Built on the 90 foot tall Kill Devil Hills, the granite monument is flanked by busts of both Wilbur and Orville Wright.
Wright Brothers National Memorial is an amazing historical park for enthusiastic aviators and history buffs. Several interactive opportunities and ranger talks are provided to visitors of all ages.
Have you visited Wright Brothers National Memorial? I would be interested in hearing about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my blog post about the Wright Brothers National Memorial and wishing you many Happy Travels!
Local Attraction:
Wright Brothers National Memorial
1401 National Park Drive
Manteo, NC 27954
Phone: 252 473 2111
- Admission Fee: An entrance pass is required for all visitors. The cost for an individual adult is $10 per person, 16 years and older. Children 15 years and younger are free.
- Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 5:00PM with the exception of Christmas Day
- Amenities: ranger demonstrations, historical talks, reconstructed historical buildings, visitor’s center
- Scenic View: Spectacular views of the sand dunes and Atlantic Ocean.
- Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
- Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking as there is an uphill walk towards the entrance. Bring a kite to fly at nearby Jockey’s Ridge Sand Dunes! For the outside exhibits, wear sunscreen and bring a bottle of water.
Hotel Accommodation:
Days Inn by Wyndham
201 N. Virginia Dare Trail
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Telephone: 252 489 4181
Restaurant Recommendation:
Henry’s Restaurant
3396 N. Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Telephone; 252 261 2025
For a starter, I had to try the she crab bisque, which was creamy and loaded with crab. For my main meal, I ordered the BBQ lunch platter which included cole slaw, french fries and hushpuppies, a classic Carolina meal.