Wright Brothers National Memorial is a national memorial run by the National Park Service in North Carolina.
In the park service’s words
Wind, sand, and a dream of flight brought Wilbur and Orville Wright to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina where, after four years of scientific experimentation, they achieved the first successful airplane flights on December 17, 1903. With courage and perseverance, these self-taught engineers relied on teamwork and application of the scientific process. What they achieved changed our world forever.
From the National Park Service (public domain).
Things to do
- Attend a Ranger Program (0 to 1 Hours): Attend one of the programs offered at Wright Brothers National Memorial
- Fly a kite like Wilbur and Orville!: Fly a kite just like the Wright Brothers.
- Walk to the Monument: Explore Big Kill Devil Hill and climb to Wright Brothers Monument.
- Take a Selfie with Orville and Wilbur: Visit the sculpture recreating the events of December 17, 1903 and the first, manned, powered, heavier-than-air flight here in Kitty Hawk, NC.
Fees and hours
Entrance fee: $10 per person. The America the Beautiful pass covers it.
Hours: Daily, 9:00AM - 5:00PM. These are the times the park grounds and visitor center are open for visitors.
Getting there
Wright Brothers National Memorial is located along US 158 in the town of Kill Devil Hills on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
| Airport | City | Drive to the park | Straight-line miles | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norfolk International Airport (ORF) | Norfolk, VA | No road route | 68 | Large hub |
| Newport News Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) | Newport News, VA | No road route | 90 | Regional |
| Pitt-Greenville Airport (PGV) | Greenville, NC | No road route | 100 | Regional |
Drive times run from the airport to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, estimated with OSRM routing on OpenStreetMap roads at normal speeds; allow extra for traffic, stops and construction.
Miles are straight-line distances.
Visitor centers
- Wright Brothers Visitor Center and Museum: Daily, 9:00AM - 5:00PM. The hours of operation for the Wright Brothers Visitor Center.
Weather
Weather on the Outer Banks varies seasonally and daily. Summers can be very hot and sunny (wear sunscreen and drink water), while winters can be cold and wet. High winds are always a possibility any time of the year. It is not uncommon for a brief winter snow each year. Being on a barrier island, the memorial is susceptible to storm impacts, including hurricanes in the summer and nor'easters in the winter. No matter what time of year you visit, dress for the weather, and be ready for wind!
From the National Park Service (public domain).
Know before you go
Drones are banned at almost every park site, and you may not take rocks, plants or artifacts. Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet where they are allowed. Bring no firewood from home.
Nearby
The nearest national park is Shenandoah, about 228 miles away in a straight line.
Sources
Last checked 1 November 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee at Wright Brothers National Memorial?
$10 per person.
Where is Wright Brothers National Memorial?
In North Carolina. The closest airport with scheduled flights is Norfolk International Airport, about 68 miles away.
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