If you’re a history buff or just enjoy military history, you don’t want to miss Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington. Launched in 1940, decommissioned in 1947, and brought to Wilmington in 1961, this majestic navy ship (BB-55, US naval ship designation) sports a long and storied history. The BB-55 North Carolina endured a slew of battles and engagements in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. And as a WWII buff, I was so excited to visit during a recent trip to Wilmington. Here’s what you’ll experience when you visit!
As you pull into a large gravel parking lot, you’ll see the low-slung but immense profile of Battleship North Carolina. The steel blues and light grays were meant to make the ship hard to spot at long-distance on the ocean but it’s hard to miss it sitting at a berth! At 728′ long it’s probably a lot smaller than most cruise ships but hey, they don’t carry the armament that this ship does! Pay up at the ticket booth ($14 for adults, $6 for children, $10 for seniors) and then clamber up the gangway plank to the main deck. Note that you’ll be doing a self-guided door and only the ship’s main deck is accessible for disabled people. You’ll need about an hour and a half or more to fully explore the ship.
Battleship North Carolina has 9 levels to explore and up top you’ll be amazed by the 16″ main turrets sporting 16″ (diameter) barrels. There are a variety of look-out spots as you work your way up to the bridge. And the battleship feels like a metal porcupine with an array of smaller cannons and anti-aircraft (AA) guns ringing the perimeter of the Battleship North Carolina. A scout plane sits at the very stern of the ship, ready to launch, cool!
Heading below deck, you’ll be using a lot of steep metal ladders and stairs so be careful! Also, there are a lot of locking doors and hatches so don’t trip over them as you move around. Exploring through the living quarters, mess hall, and engine room is a lot of fun and you’ll be amazed at what you see and find. Signage provides details on each area of the ship so you can learn as you go. Note that there is no air conditioning so things can get a bit damp and hot in the lower levels so plan your visit accordingly.
All in all, I really enjoyed my visit to Battleship North Carolina! It’s a step back into history and with World War II fading out of memory, an important visit to help understand how our freedoms exist today because of all the sacrifices made by brave men and women from the Greatest Generation as they pass on. A reminder that our country stood up to the chaos and violence created by fascist and authoritarian leaders around the world. And while we will likely never fight a war like that again, the same battles continue even today. Don’t miss Battleship North Carolina and a chance to immerse yourself in this very important piece of US history!
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