Wednesday, May 1, 2024

The North Carolina Museum of History Announces Upcoming Redesign of Museum and Exhibits The museum will close to the public Oct. 7 and provide digital experiences throughout physical closure

Raleigh, NC
May 1, 2024

The North Carolina Museum of History announces the start of an exciting transformation! This historic gem, proudly affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, is gearing up to unveil a dramatic new experience in a few years that will redefine how visitors connect with the vibrant tapestry of North Carolina's past.

To prepare for the renovation, the third-floor exhibits will close on June 3, 2024. The first-floor exhibits and the physical museum building will close on October 7, 2024. The Museum Shop will remain open to the public until December 29, 2024. Expected to span two to three years, this museum makeover promises an extraordinary journey deep into the heart of North Carolina's past. The project is made possible through funding authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly and Governor Roy Cooper.

As the museum undergoes this metamorphosis, its dedication to education and the public stands firm. Students and educators statewide will continue to enjoy a bounty of digital resources, ensuring that the quest for knowledge never pauses. For the public, anticipate an array of virtual programs and live events spanning the length and breadth of North Carolina. Enhanced online services are in the works, set to deliver immersive digital exhibit tours straight to your fingertips.

Brad Wilson, Interim Director of the NC Museum of History and Division of State History Museums, shares the excitement, declaring, "We're embarking on an incredible journey, and what awaits us on the other side is nothing short of extraordinary—reimagined exhibits that will bring North Carolina history to life.”

Established in 1902 as the Hall of History, the museum found its permanent home on 5 East Edenton Street, downtown Raleigh, in 1994. Now, after thirty years, it's time for a grand revitalization—a testament to the museum’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding and celebrating North Carolina's storied heritage.

Don’t miss current opportunities to engage with the museum’s open exhibitions; there are still a lot of exhibits, live music, and programs to explore. Later as the construction unfolds, don't miss the chance to explore the treasure trove of online museum programs and in-person statewide opportunities.

For further details, click the links above or visit ncmuseumofhistory.org.