Orville takes to the air in the flyer for the first time on December 17, 1903.
Photo: Wilbur Wright, Orville Wright, and John Daniels
About
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.
Activities
FlyingJunior Ranger ProgramMuseum ExhibitsShoppingBookstore and Park Store
Directions
Wright Brothers National Memorial is located along US 158 in the town of Kill Devil Hills on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
Get directions →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!
News
Jan 30, 2026
Cape Hatteras NS, Fort Raleigh NHS and Wright Brothers NMEM Announce Visitor Facility Closures Ahead of Winter Storm
Ahead of an impending winter storm, all National Park Service visitor facilities at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial will be closed this weekend and will remain closed through at least the morning of Feb. 2. The Oregon Inlet and Ocracoke campgrounds are closing at 12 p.m. today.
Dec 2, 2025
Wright Brothers National Memorial hosts Dec. 17 first flight anniversary event and special unveiling of student-built airplane
On Dec. 17 at 8:30 a.m., Wright Brothers National Memorial, Dare County Schools, the First Flight Society and Outer Banks Forever will celebrate the accomplishments of Wilbur and Orville Wright on the 122nd anniversary of their first heavier-than-air, controlled, powered flight. Park entrance fees are waived on this special day.
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Per Person