The NC Museum of History is embarking on a transformative journey that will redefine how visitors experience the state's rich history. As part of this project, the museum building located at 5 East Edenton Street in Raleigh is closed to the public for an exciting renovation. The building closed in October 2024, with construction that started in summer 2025. The renovation process is expected to last two to three years.
We understand you may have questions about what’s happening, and how you can stay connected with us during this time. Below, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the renovation.
Thank you for your continued support, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to a better-than-ever museum!
The NC Museum of History is undergoing renovations to improve accessibility, enhance the visitor experience, and refine how visitors experience the state's rich history. This includes updating our HVAC system, installing a new freight elevator, repairing leaks, and expanding exhibit spaces to better showcase diverse voices and stories from North Carolina's rich history.
The renovation is expected to last two to three years. The museum is scheduled to reopen in 2028.
The museum relocated its more than 150,000 artifacts to a secure and environmentally sound location to ensure their preservation during renovation.
Yes, the entire museum building will temporarily be closed. However, the museum will continue to offer a robust schedule of public and educational programming. You can also visit the Museum Shop at their storefront located at 108 Glenwood Ave in Raleigh!
Yes! While the museum building is temporarily closed, the museum remains active across the state and online. We continue to offer programs, exhibits, and a wide range of digital resources for educators, students, and lifelong learners. Looking ahead, the museum is committed to expanding access to its renowned collection and programs—bringing North Carolina’s rich history to all 100 counties.
Yes. While the Raleigh location is temporarily closed, North Carolina’s Division of State History Museums—part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources—includes seven regional museums, and these remain open across the state. These include regional sites at the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras, the Mountain Gateway Museum in Old Fort, the Museum of the Albermarle in Elizabeth City, the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex in Fayetteville, the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort, the NC Maritime Museum at Southport, and the Tobacco Farm Life Museum in Kenly. Each museum interprets the unique stories of its region through exhibits, programming, and collections that reflect more than 14,000 years of North Carolina history.
You can stay engaged with us through programming and special online content. Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, and visit our website for updates, behind-the-scenes renovation details, and announcements about our reopening.