North Carolina Museum of History

Mission Statement

The Division of State History Museums collects and preserves artifacts and other historical materials relating to the history and heritage of North Carolina in a local, regional, national and international context to assist people in understanding how the past influences the present.

The division interprets history through exhibitions, educational programs, and publications available to the visitor on-site or through distance-learning technologies.

About Us

Visitors from around the world travel to the North Carolina Museum of History to discover fascinating secrets and hidden gems from our state's past. Located at 5 East Edenton Street in the heart of downtown Raleigh, across from the Capitol, the state history museum welcomes more than 400,000 visitors a year, including roughly 80,000 school groups. Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is FREE. Nearby the museum is convenient parking, restaurants, and many other family-friendly attractions.

The Museum is open every day except New Year's Day, January 2, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

At the North Carolina Museum of History, we are committed to creating a place where you can explore, learn, and enjoy programs, events, and exhibitions that celebrate North Carolina’s past, present, and future.