North Carolina Maritime Museum Southport
Discover Southport's maritime past with engaging exhibits on pirates, shipwrecks, and coastal history. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
North Carolina Maritime Museum Southport
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Southport's maritime past with engaging exhibits on pirates, shipwrecks, and coastal history. Free admission!
"Great FREE museum. I learned a lot and had fun doing it."
Donation Encouraged
While free, consider a donation for a free tote bag! :gift:
Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunts
Engaging scavenger hunts keep kids entertained and learning. :detective:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Engage with hands-on displays, including a working periscope and rotating scavenger hunts for younger visitors.
Local Maritime History
Main exhibition halls
Discover the rich history of Southport and its connection to the sea, from piracy to storms.
Ship Models & Artifacts
Various display cases
Admire detailed ship models and fascinating artifacts recovered from shipwrecks and historical events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Engaging for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donation Encouraged
While free, consider a donation for a free tote bag! :gift:
Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunts
Engaging scavenger hunts keep kids entertained and learning. :detective:
Waterfront Views
Great spot to relax by the water after your visit. :ocean:
Check Hours Before Visiting
Hours can change seasonally or for facility refresh. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donation Encouraged
While free, consider a donation for a free tote bag! :gift:
Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunts
Engaging scavenger hunts keep kids entertained and learning. :detective:
Waterfront Views
Great spot to relax by the water after your visit. :ocean:
Check Hours Before Visiting
Hours can change seasonally or for facility refresh. :clock:
Friendly & Welcoming Staff
Volunteers are happy to share knowledge and make you feel welcome. :wave:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the North Carolina Maritime Museum Southport for its engaging exhibits, especially the interactive elements and scavenger hunts that delight children. The free admission and friendly, knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted as major positives, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and families alike.
"We enjoyed the uniforms and interaction near the entrance of the museum today. The scavenger hunt was decent however, having children search for stickers on the wall isn't a scavenger hunt. Get a bosun's pipe or boatswains whistle that the children can actually look for and possibly touch. That part was very disappointing....."
Amy Henkel
"Wonderful exhibits for all ages. A scavenger hunt kept the young folks engaged, and we all found treasures in the gift shop. We are returning for the historical commemoration of the burning of Fort Johnston on July 19th for a full day of fun! 🇺🇸🥁🇺🇸"
Theresa Rooks Peaden
"Great place to start your day in Southport - there are bathrooms and a wide lawn facing the water. Inside is a helpful and well-staffed visitor's desk and a few rooms of local history. I saw some kids running around doing a scavenger hunt, which looked fun. I loved the old photographs and the ships models. If nothing else, it's a great place to sit facing the water."
Sara Beth Wade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Southport, NC. It's a popular day trip destination from Wilmington, accessible by car or ferry from Carolina Beach. 
While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, Southport is a walkable town. Street parking is generally available, and the museum's waterfront location makes it easy to find once you're in the area.
Yes, you can take a ferry from Carolina Beach to Southport, which is a scenic way to arrive and a popular option for day-trippers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is a free attraction, though donations are highly encouraged to support its operations and exhibits. A $5 donation can even earn you a free tote bag!
Operating hours can vary seasonally and for special events. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
As the museum is free, advance ticket booking is not typically required. However, for special events like 'Bewitching Broomsticks' or 'Historic Holidays,' it's wise to check if registration is needed.
The museum aims to be accessible. Their website provides tips and information regarding accessibility for visitors, and they are happy to answer questions by phone or email.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on local maritime history, piracy, shipwrecks, and storms. They also offer interactive scavenger hunts for kids and have a working periscope. +1
Absolutely! The museum features engaging scavenger hunts that change periodically, keeping young visitors entertained.
Expect to see a focus on the maritime history of southeastern North Carolina, including stories of longshoremen, old photographs, ship models, and artifacts from shipwrecks. +1
Photography policies can vary, but generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. It's always a good idea to check for any posted restrictions.
Start at the visitor's desk, explore the exhibits at your own pace, and participate in the scavenger hunt if you have children. Enjoy the waterfront views from the lawn outside.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Southport offers a variety of dining options. You can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the waterfront views.
The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or restaurant. However, the surrounding Southport area has many eateries to choose from.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the detailed ship models, historical artifacts, and interactive exhibits. The exterior views of the waterfront and Southport's charming architecture are also great for photos.
While specific video policies aren't detailed, personal video recording for non-commercial purposes is usually allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and any posted signs.
The 9-pounder gun recovered from the Spanish ship La Rosa de Bilbao is a striking artifact. Also, the museum's location on the waterfront offers picturesque views of boats and the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds. The nearby waterfront offers a nice space for kids to stretch their legs after exploring the exhibits.
💰 Budget Travelers
Southport itself is a charming town with plenty to see and do without spending a lot. Enjoy the waterfront views, stroll through the streets, and soak in the coastal atmosphere. The museum provides a rich cultural experience without impacting your wallet.
📚 History Buffs
Pay attention to the stories of local figures, like the longshoreman Nehi, and the development of maritime industries in southeastern North Carolina. The museum provides a well-curated look at a vital aspect of the state's heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Southport's Maritime Heritage
The museum showcases a variety of artifacts and models, offering a tangible link to the past. Detailed ship models provide a glimpse into historical naval architecture, while recovered items from shipwrecks tell silent stories of maritime adventures and tragedies. These displays are not just educational but also visually captivating, drawing visitors into the narratives of those who lived and worked on the water.
Beyond the static displays, the museum emphasizes interactive learning. Rotating scavenger hunts are a hit with younger visitors, turning a museum visit into an engaging quest. This approach ensures that the museum is not just a place to observe but a dynamic environment where visitors of all ages can actively participate in discovering the region's rich maritime heritage.
Family Fun and Engagement
Beyond the scavenger hunts, the museum's exhibits themselves are often designed with a broad audience in mind. The working periscope is a particular highlight, allowing kids (and adults!) to experience a unique perspective. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as 'Skippers Crew' activities or 'Historic Holidays,' which often include hands-on crafts like making mini witches brooms or paper lanterns.
+1Parents will appreciate that the museum is free to enter, making it an accessible outing. The welcoming atmosphere, with helpful volunteers, ensures a pleasant experience for everyone. The nearby waterfront lawn also provides a great space for kids to run around after their museum exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit