Regional museum featuring interactive exhibits on science, local history, and the environment, including a giant ground sloth skeleton and hands-on learning areas.
General Information
Sunday: 1pm to 5pm
Closed Mondays and major holidays
Seniors (62+), Military, Students: $7
Children (6–17): $5
Children under 5: Free
How to Get There
From downtown Wilmington, head north on Market Street for several blocks; the museum is located near 9th Street with parking available on-site.
Overview
The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science is the oldest history museum in North Carolina, offering a dynamic blend of science, culture, and regional heritage. Founded in 1898, the museum houses over 50,000 artifacts, from Civil War relics to contemporary environmental exhibits. Highlights include a life-size model of a giant ground sloth, hands-on science labs, and displays on the Lower Cape Fear’s diverse ecosystems. The museum’s interactive approach makes it a favorite among families, educators, and curious minds of all ages.
Beyond its permanent collections, the museum hosts traveling exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that explore topics ranging from astronomy to civil rights. Its mission to inspire lifelong learning is evident in every gallery, where history and science intersect to tell the story of southeastern North Carolina. Whether you're exploring the natural world or uncovering the region’s past, the Cape Fear Museum offers an enriching and engaging experience for all visitors.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
