Top Five Museums to Visit in North Carolina

Have you ever noticed how museums are always included in every tour package or travel itinerary? Before you think that these places are added to fluff up the program, have you ever considered the benefits you gain from spending time at a museum? Often large and dreary looking from the outside, museums are beautiful outlets that give us a glimpse of the past. The collections of interactive experiences, history, art, and sciences found in museums allow visitors to connect in a series of educational and entertaining modes. There is no better way to learn about the early beginnings of a locale than by visiting one. Here is a quick rundown of some fascinating museums to explore when you’re in North Carolina.

North Carolina Museum of History

Museum of Life and Science

This two-story, 84-acre science park and interactive center are best known for its diverse selection of live animals. With over 60 species housed in safe outdoor exhibits, lemurs, black bears, and wolves are just some of the creatures, visitors will find. Guests will also be amazed to find the largest butterfly conservatory ever built in East Coast at the Museum of Life and Science. Learn and observe these beautiful insects in the museum’s well-maintained butterfly pavilion.

museum of life and science nc

North Carolina Museum of History

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, the museum’s mission is to preserve and showcase the state’s olden days properly. Its 150,000 pieces’ collection of artifacts have spanned over six centuries. It is displayed along with several rotating exhibits that focus on the works of national and local artists. Don’t miss out! Immerse yourself in art pieces that encapsulate North Carolina’s social development as well as its landscape when you stop by.

North Carolina Museum of History

Ashville Pinball Museum

Known widely for its Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville boasts of a vibrant art scene. Its hidden gem, however, is the Asheville Pinball Museum. Here visitors can learn about the appliance and play with dozens of vintage pinball machines onsite. Guests who want to bring home their very own machine can do so with the variety of pinball machines and merchandise that’s up for sale. Up the ante by arranging for private parties so you and your friends can enjoy playing in the museum beyond the regular visiting hours.

Ashville Pinball Museum

Ackland Art Museum

Situated in Downtown Chapel Hill, the Ackland Art Museum houses a permanent collection of thousands of artworks. It is home to a large selection of photographs, drawings, prints, European masterpieces, contemporary art, 20th-century pieces, Asian art, as well as some local pottery. The museum annually organizes and hosts special exhibits to encourage interest in the arts further.

Ackland Art Museum

Graveyard of the Atlantic

This unique attraction focuses on the naval history of the area. Audiences and visitors get to enjoy the discoveries and maritime findings from the North Carolina Outer Banks. Observe and be in awe at the discovered shipwrecks and museum relics that were salvaged from the earliest colonization and expedition periods of the area.

There is much to discover once you step inside a museum. One need not be an art or historical enthusiast to enjoy an afternoon exploring one; all it takes is a splash of curiosity.

Graveyard of the Atlantic