north carolina battleship tours

Battleship North Carolina

Explore the refurbished WWII Battleship starting with the Observation Deck. The self-guided tour features nine levels of living spaces, mess decks, gun turrets, powder storage, sick bay, and more. Serving as a memorial for the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war, the Battleship is open every day. This historic adventure is one you don't want to miss. Joint them for special events like ghost hunts and more. The SECU Memorial Walkway around the Battleship is now open Battleship hours and is accessible and free to the public.

• Parking: Free, Motorcoach rv
• Pet policy: No
• Group friendly
• Tours: Guided, Self guided

Group Facilities

Capacity: 100+ Meeting rooms: <5

#1 Battleship Road Wilmington, NC 28401

(910) 399-9100 www.battleshipnc.com Dena J. Merlino Scott [email protected]

Local Information

Wilmington and beaches convention & visitors bureau.

(910) 399-9100 - www.battleshipnc.com

Battleship North Carolina

1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington, North Carolina

During World War II, the Battleship North Carolina participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific, which earned it 15 battle stars. Today, the restored battleship is moored on the Cape Fear River, across from downtown Wilmington. A National Historic Landmark and memorial, it welcomes visitors to explore its rich history.

Visitors can explore the Battleship North Carolina on a self-guided tour. Climb the ladders to nine different levels and inside gun turrets; get an up-close look at a Kingfisher Scout plane; walk through the bridge, sick bay, and the engine room; see where the crew worked, ate, and slept; and learn about life onboard through crew stories. Several different guided tours offer an in-depth exploration of the ship, while some Wilmington tours, including ghost tours and Cape Fear River boat tours, also pass by the battleship.

There’s an entrance fee with discounts for children, seniors, ADA, and military. The SECU Memorial Walkway is free to visit.

Several guided tours are available for an additional fee, but it’s advisable to book 36 hours in advance. You may be able to join a walk-up tour, subject to the availability of guides.

On-site amenities include restrooms, water fountains, soda machines, and a ship store.

It’s recommended to wear sneakers or closed footwear due to the uneven surfaces and stairs on the ship.

The main deck of the Battleship North Carolina and the SECU Memorial Walkway are wheelchair accessible.

The Battleship North Carolina is located at 1 Battleship Rd on the Cape Fear River, across from downtown Wilmington. It’s located at the junction of highways 421, 17, 76, and 74. Plenty of free parking is available on-site, including for buses and RVs. You can also take a water taxi from the base of Market Street in downtown Wilmington.

The Battleship North Carolina is open daily from 8am to 5pm, including all holidays (with the exception of Christmas Day, when it opens at 12pm). Plan to spend at least two hours to fully explore the site. Guided tour times vary—ranging from around 90 minutes to 3 hours—and most are predominantly inside the ship, making it an ideal option during inclement weather. The battleship is not air-conditioned and it can get hot below decks during days with high temperatures.

Right across the Cape Fear River from the Battleship North Carolina is Wilmington’s Historic Downtown. Stroll along 1.75-mile (2.8-kilometer) long Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River, with access to plenty of cafés, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Alternatively, explore the nearby National Register Historic District, which spans more than 200 blocks, and offers gardens and antebellum houses, including Bellamy Mansion, Latimer House, and the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens.

Things To Do Available ( 3 )

Wilmington 2-hour private guided e-bike tour.

Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Private Tiki Boat Tour on Cape Fear River

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Eagle Island Narrated Boat Cruise from Wilmington

Duration: 1 hour

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

Battleship North Carolina

About this destination

Visitors to the Battleship North Carolina are invited to embark on a self-guided tour that encompasses nine levels of the ship, from the depths of the engine room to the commanding heights of the bridge. This immersive experience allows guests to explore the crew's living quarters, the mess decks, gun turrets, powder storage, and much more, providing a vivid portrayal of daily life aboard a World War II-era battleship. The meticulously preserved interiors and comprehensive exhibits throughout the ship paint a detailed picture of the technology, strategy, and human endeavor that defined naval warfare during the period.

In summary, the Battleship North Carolina is a remarkable historical and educational destination that offers an in-depth look into World War II naval operations, the life of sailors aboard a battleship, and the broader context of American military history. As a preserved warship and memorial, it stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the men who served on her decks, as well as a fascinating museum for visitors to explore. The Battleship North Carolina invites guests to step back in time and experience the legacy of one of America's most celebrated naval vessels, making it a must-visit attraction in Wilmington, North Carolina.

‍ In Wilmington, North Carolina, the Battleship North Carolina serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war. Located on the banks of the Cape Fear River, this battleship offers stunning views of the surrounding area, making it an ideal spot for both history buffs and families. Wilmington itself is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, adding to the charm of a visit to the battleship. Just a short distance from the battleship, visitors can explore the historic downtown Wilmington. This area is known for its picturesque Riverwalk, where charming shops, restaurants, and galleries line the waterfront. The Riverwalk provides a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll while observing the riverside scenery. Nearby, the USS North Carolina Memorial Park offers additional educational opportunities and stunning views of the battleship from the shore. For those interested in more local history, the Bellamy Mansion Museum and the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens are also in downtown Wilmington. The Bellamy Mansion, a stunning example of antebellum architecture, showcases the lives of a prominent family in the 19th century. The gardens surrounding the mansion are perfect for a peaceful afternoon. Accommodations in Wilmington are plentiful, catering to all types of travelers. The Hilton Wilmington Riverside offers a comfortable stay with views of the Cape Fear River. For a more charming experience, visitors may choose to stay at the Graystone Inn, a lovely bed-and-breakfast located in a historic building. Both options are conveniently close to the Battleship North Carolina and other local attractions. Wilmington also offers great dining options. The Cotton Exchange, a shopping and dining complex located near the waterfront, boasts a range of restaurants serving everything from Southern cuisine to fresh seafood. Additionally, visitors can try local favorites like shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes, fully experiencing the flavors of the region. As a preserved warship and memorial, the Battleship North Carolina stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the men who served on her decks. This remarkable destination invites guests to step back in time and experience the legacy of one of America's most celebrated naval vessels, making it a must-visit attraction in Wilmington, North Carolina. After exploring the ship, visitors have the opportunity to delve deeper into the area’s rich history and culture, creating a well-rounded trip filled with education and enjoyment. All in all, Wilmington offers a blend of historical attractions, beautiful landscapes, and accommodations that cater to the needs of every traveler, enriching the experience of visiting the Battleship North Carolina.

Get directions

Interested in advertising on our site?

This is just placeholder text. Don’t be alarmed, this is just here to fill up space since your finalized copy isn’t ready yet.

Explore more

The Wilmington Railroad Museum, located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, offers a fascinating journey through the rich railway history that has significantly contributed to the region's development. Established to preserve and interpret the vast railroad heritage of Wilmington and the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, the museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that captivate visitors of all ages. From the majestic steam locomotives of the past to the intricate model train displays, the museum provides a comprehensive look into the world of railroading.

The Bellamy Mansion Museum, located in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, stands as a magnificent example of antebellum architecture and a testament to the complex history of the American South. Built on the eve of the Civil War in 1859 for Dr. John Dillard Bellamy and his family, this grand mansion is one of North Carolina's most spectacular examples of antebellum architecture. It not only showcases the opulence of the era but also provides insight into the lives of the Bellamy family, their enslaved servants, and the intricate social structures of the 19th century.

Historic Downtown Wilmington, nestled along the scenic Cape Fear River in North Carolina, is a vibrant and picturesque district that captures the essence of Southern charm and history. This beloved area is renowned for its beautifully restored antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and a rich tapestry of history that dates back over two centuries. As a focal point of cultural and economic life in the region, Downtown Wilmington offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and theaters, all set against the backdrop of its historic waterfront.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com .

What is Project 543?

• VISITNC.COM

Filter By Region:

Man the guns of the world’s greatest sea weapon

Visitors to coastal North Carolina can man the guns of what was, at the time of her commissioning, considered the world’s greatest sea weapon. The Battleship North Carolina is moored near downtown Wilmington’s historic river district and its island beaches. The ship is one of the most popular attractions in the state, having fought in every major naval offensive in the Pacific during World War II. Visitors can walk the decks and experience the daily life and fierce combat faced by the crew. Self-guided tours of the ship are available daily and special programs allow visitors to discover and build a personal connection through behind-the-scenes tours, in-depth programs of the ship’s inner-workings, reenactments, special programs for professional military education and more. Many people believe the Battleship North Carolina to be haunted, so it’s no surprise that one of the most popular nearby events is the Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington, a nationally acclaimed tour of the city’s most actively haunted homes and burial grounds, complete with eerie tales and true paranormal stories.

Battleship North Carolina

Battleship North Carolina, Battleship Road Northeast, Wilmington, NC

Featured Destinations

Leave a comment, learn more about.

• kids & family
• things to do
• wilmington area

You May Also Like

© 2024 Visit North Carolina

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Key Tips For Exploring The Battleship North Carolina

• Destinations
• North Carolina
• United States

The massive profile of the battleship USS North Carolina can be spotted from almost anywhere on the waterfront in Wilmington, North Carolina . You cannot miss this impressive ship that is a piece of history.

As you traverse the walkway leading up to the ship, her size is immense. But it is her history that captivates you. From her menacing guns that seem to punch through the air to her magnificent superstructure that soars into the air, this battleship is a force to be reckoned with. 

The very thought of this battleship moving like a ghost shrouded in an early morning mist to battle against our enemies is enough to cause an eerie anticipation of the devastation this mighty battleship will bring to those who oppose her. But today, this valiant fighting machine is a historical treasure, taking visitors on a journey back in time.

When visiting the USS North Carolina , we’ve curated a list of tips to help you prepare for your visit and maximize your time on board.

Our visit to the battleship USS North Carolina was hosted by Visit Wilmington & the Beaches. However, all opinions are my own.

1. Learn The History

For her era, the North Carolina was technology-forward. She played a role in every major military operation in the Pacific during World War II. Her keel was laid in 1937, and she was commissioned on June 13, 1940.

Her firepower includes nine 16-inch/45-caliber turret guns, and 20 5-inch/38-caliber guns in twin gun mounts, making her a formidable opponent. She carried 2,339 military men who lived and worked onboard.

Following the end of World War II, the USS North Carolina was used as a training vessel from 1945 to 1946. In 1947 she was decommissioned and sent to New Jersey as part of the Inactive Reserve Fleet.

In 1961, thanks to a vigorous campaign by organizations, citizens, and representatives, the North Carolina relocated to Wilmington . But, it was the school children who pooled their money, raiding their piggy banks, who were the true heroes that brought the USS North Carolina home.

2. Read The Sea Stories

Learn about the men who served on the USS North Carolina and hear their personal stories about serving on this mighty ship. These stories are found on the battleship’s site under Sea Stories .

The stories bring the ship to life and are first-hand accounts from the men who served onboard her. Some are especially poignant, like the recounting of the torpedo hit by Walter Babcock, one of the North Carolina ‘s cooks:

“I was down taking a shower, didn’t have a stitch of clothes on, had just gotten out of the shower, and had the towel going on my back drying my back. There was a big explosion. I couldn’t hear anything, and the next thing I knew I was in the water and oil and there were two other guys pretty close to me, but I somehow got out. 

“But I’ll never forget it, the sight that I saw. I saw the prettiest roses you ever laid your eyes on. I saw my name. At the time I was from Lynchburg, Virginia. And I saw my name in the Lynchburg paper, ‘Walter T. Babcock,’ and I’m going to tell you like it was, ‘Walter T. Babcock, killed in action.’ 

“And I don’t remember getting from down the third deck up to topside. The only thing I know, and I’m telling the truth, I saw my mother and father. One caught one hand and one caught the other and I actually talked to them.” — Walter Babcock, Ship’s Cook 3/c

3. Take One Of Several Tours

When visiting the USS North Carolina , you can opt for a guided or self-guided tour. We particularly liked the self-guided tour that allowed us to go at our own pace. However, there are guided tour options available.

Guided Tours

The City At Sea Second Deck Tour takes about 90 minutes and gives visitors a glimpse of life onboard a warship. The tour includes the crew’s living spaces, sick bay, mess decks, the ship’s store, barber shop, ice cream shop, and more. The guided tours are reserved online and must be booked at least 36 hours in advance.

Pro Tip: The Second Deck Tour requires you to go up and down several ladders. We suggest booking the Above Deck Tour if you have mobility issues.

The Above Deck Guided Tour is an excellent option for those with limited mobility and takes 90 minutes. You won’t have to climb ladders or be in tiny spaces. Your tour guide will walk you through the history of the USS North Carolina and her role in the Pacific theater of World War II.

The Combo Tour is both the Above Deck and Second Deck tours and takes 3 three hours.

4. Hydrate Before You Board

The self-guided tour takes about 2 hours. There are no water stations onboard the ship. On hot steamy days, it is essential to hydrate before your tour so you don’t get dehydrated or lightheaded. You can also carry a water bottle or juice, but please do not leave your trash behind.

5. Wear Comfortable Clothing And Shoes

As you tour the spaces onboard the North Carolina , you’ll be traversing decks, stairs, and tight places. We suggest that you wear loose comfortable clothing that allows you to move. 

For shoes, we recommend flat shoes that have a grip to them. The best shoes would be tennis shoes or boat/deck shoes.

6. Watch Your Head

Remember those tight spaces and stairs I mentioned? The steps are actually ladders that run between decks, and they are narrow. The steps are frequently squeezed into a space you must duck under. Don’t fall victim to banging your head on a hard metal surface or pipe that may protrude out.

7. Know Ship Ladder Safety

It is not easy traversing the ladders between the decks! Jim and I are familiar with boat ladders, having owned larger boats over the years. The best way to go down a ladder is backward, with your eyes facing the ladder steps.

Going down ladders backward can be intimidating, but it is the safest way to go down. During her service years, the men serving onboard the North Carolina would often forgo stepping down the ladder. Instead of gripping the handles on each side of the ladder, they would slide down. This method was especially effective in battle situations. Battle situations are very fluid, and you must move quickly. There was no time to waste when you were called to action.

8. Immerse Yourself In The Tour

Take the time to read some of the stories from the crew. These stories are on placards around the ship. They are first-hand accounts from the sailors who served on her. They bring the ship, which is a floating city, to life.

Imagine being a crew member living in a sea of steel and a rabbit warren of tiny hot rooms during wartime! Imagine yourself sleeping in the creaking bunks with noise raging all around you.

Battles at sea have never been staged for convenient times. You could be bombed or torpedoed at any time of the day or night. Sailors work around the clock, so the work does not end; neither does the noise. There are no quiet times when you are living in a floating city.

The battleship USS North Carolina is a must-do when visiting Wilmington, North Carolina . This battleship played a vital role in the Pacific theatre during World War II. She earned 15 battle stars during the war years and only lost 10 men!

For more on North Carolina , explore these articles:

• My 9 Favorite Restaurants To Indulge In Jacksonville, North Carolina
• 10 Best Oceanfront Carolina Beach Vacation Rentals
• The New International Food Trail You Need To Experience In North Carolina

Betsi and Jim, her travel companion, travel the world while documenting their adventures and gathering travel tips to share with their readers. Betsi focuses on destinations that cater to multi-generational travelers, as well as luxury travel getaways and all-inclusive resorts.

Battleship North Carolina

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 4.5

Back when Battleship North Carolina was commissioned in 1941, the ship was thought of as "the world's greatest sea weapon," and it turned out to be just that by participating in more than a dozen offensives in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. The ship was decommissioned in 1947 and was going to be sent for scrap metal but North Carolinians petitioned for the ship to be preserved as a museum – and in 1962, it was dedicated as just that. Today, visitors can tour the ship, all the while learning about the history of its veterans. 

Recent travelers call Battleship North Carolina a must-see for travelers of all ages. But it's important to note that the ship decks can get pretty hot, especially in the summer, and there are lots of stairs to traverse. Recent visitors also recommended arriving early in the day to avoid the midday heat and heaviest crowds. 

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Battleship North Carolina is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., except on July Fourth when it closes at 5 p.m. for fireworks. The rest of the year, it's open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Christmas Day when it opens at noon. General admission costs $14 for adults; $10 for seniors and active military; and $6 for children ages 6 through 11. Kids ages 5 and younger get in for free. Guided tours of the ship cost an additional fee and are offered at various times on Saturdays. The ship is nestled into Eagle Island on Cape Fear River. Parking is available on-site. For more information, visit Battleship North Carolina's website . 

Popular Tours

Sailing Charters in Wilmington

(123 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise

(127 reviews)

from $ 24.00

Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach

(41 reviews)

from $ 50.00

More Best Things To Do in Wilmington, NC

#1 Wilmington's Riverwalk

No trip to Wilmington is complete without a stroll along its mile-long Riverwalk. This wooden boardwalk that borders Cape Fear River is lined with popular restaurants and bars – and punctuated by stools and benches that are perfect for taking a break and taking in the scene. 

One traveler who praised the Riverwalk's views also recommended taking a water taxi to the Battleship North Carolina. Another traveler said the Riverwalk encapsulates the local culture, from the smell of the salty sea air to the surrounding history to the buzzy nightlife. 

Explore More of Wilmington, NC

Things To Do

Best Hotels

You might also like

Charleston, SC

# 1 in  Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Outer Banks

# 2 in  Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

# 11 in  Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

16 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Christina Maggitas|Rachael Hood|Catriona Kendall September 13, 2024

The 26 Best Beach Resorts in the World

Marisa Méndez|Erin Vasta|Rachael Hood|Catriona Kendall September 5, 2024

30 Fun Fall Weekend Getaways for 2024

Holly Johnson August 29, 2024

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

• Press & Media
• Privacy Policy

View or mail me a Visitors Guide

Sign-up to get our eNews

Discover your next coastal vacation destination

View Visitors Guide

Mail me a Visitors Guide

Trip ideas, events, latest news all in your inbox

929 N. Front St., Suite 410, Wilmington, NC 28401 Toll-Free : 1-877-406-2356

© 2024 Wilmington and Beaches CVB All Rights Reserved

We use cookies to improve our site and your experience. By continuing to use our site you agree to our  privacy policy .

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Caption Policy
• Accessibility Statement

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by Factset . Powered and implemented by FactSet Digital Solutions . Legal Statement . Mutual Fund and ETF data provided by Refinitiv Lipper .

North Carolina travel guide for the history, museum buff; take a ride on a record-breaking roller coaster

If you're traveling to north carolina, this guide is full of destinations worth the visit.

Expert says there is an ‘uptick’ in people getting travel insurance

Travel journalist Francesca Page discusses the latest travel trends on ‘Your World.’

North Carolina is a state full of exciting places to see and unique experiences to be had. 

There could be something for every person who is looking to visit North Carolina. 

There are plenty of museums full of history, as well as gorgeous parks and an amusement park featuring a record-breaking roller coaster.

A TRAVEL GUIDE TO INDIANA FULL OF FAMILY FUN, HISTORIC LANDMARKS AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Below are a few stops to consider during your vacation to North Carolina.  

• Blue Ridge Parkway
• NASCAR Hall of Fame
• Battleship North Carolina
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park

North Carolina is full of exciting attractions, including the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Carowinds theme park.  (\Getty Images)

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway is often called "America's Favorite Drive." 

A relaxing drive on Blue Ridge Parkway is one activity you may want to squeeze into your vacation.

THIS SOUTH CAROLINA TRAVEL GUIDE WILL SPARK JOY FOR VISITORS LOOKING FOR BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, HISTORIC TOURS

Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles, according to the National Park Service, and connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. 

There are many places to camp, hike and, of course, snap breathtaking photos along the route.

Blue Ridge Parkway is beautiful any time of year, but it's especially jaw-dropping during the fall.  (Thomas O'Neill/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

2. NASCAR Hall of Fame

Race car fans must stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame during a visit to North Carolina. 

This popular museum is located in Charlotte and is full of interactive experiences and exhibits that honor NASCAR. 

A TRAVEL GUIDE TO OREGON: 7 WONDERS OF THE BEAVER STATE FULL OF BREATHTAKING SCENERY

There are also many events at the NASCAR Hall of Fame throughout the year. So, be sure to look on its website to see if anything special is going on during your visit. 

3. Battleship North Carolina

A famous World War II battleship is located in Wilmington, North Carolina. 

Guests can book a self-guided or guided tour to explore the nine levels of the ship. 

The website for the historic attraction notes that guests should expect to spend at least two hours exploring the boat. 

Guests can explore the nine floors of a famous World War II battleship during their trip to North Carolina.  (Edwin Remsberg/VWPics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

This battleship was active during World War II and participated in every naval offensive in the Pacific theater of operations, according to the attraction's website. During this time, 15 battle stars were earned, making the ship the most decorated American battleship of World War II.

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has sections in North Carolina and in Tennessee. 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.

The south side of the park is located in North Carolina. 

You can see beautiful mountain views from the Blue Ridge Parkway if you don't have time to explore the park. 

If you do choose to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park during your visit to North Carolina, there are plenty of hiking trails and a number of waterfalls that may leave you in awe.

Parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park are located in North Carolina.  (George Rose/Getty Images)

5. Biltmore

Bilmore is one attraction many tourists add to their North Carolina vacation itinerary.

Biltmore House was completed in 1895 and owned by George Vanderbilt, according to the estate's website. Biltmore is still owned by descendants of the Vanderbilt family today.  

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

The 8,000-acre estate in Asheville is the largest privately owned home in the country. 

There is so much to explore at Biltmore, including a winery, shopping, restaurants, nature trails and more. 

Biltmore is a popular tourist attraction in North Carolina.  (George Rose/Getty Images)

6. Carowinds

Carowinds is an amusement park in Charlotte. 

This theme park has attractions fit for the younger ones in your family and plenty of roller coasters for the thrill seekers. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP  

One of the most popular rides at Carowinds is Fury 325. This exciting coaster is the tallest, fastest and longest giga coaster in North America. Giga coasters are categorized as those that have a height or drop topping 300 feet. 

This ride reaches heights of 325 feet and has an 81-degree drop and a 190-foot barrel turn, according to Carowind's website. 

Ashlyn Messier is a writer for Fox News Digital. 

Fox News Lifestyle

A look at the top-trending stories in food, relationships, great outdoors and more.

By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use , and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.

You've successfully subscribed to this newsletter!