Learn About the Park

Family looks at tactile map of park inside the visitor center
Visiting family gathers around tactile map in visitor center to decide what to explore at the park first.

NPS Photo, Eden Saunders

 

A Moment that Changed the World... the Place that Made it Possible

Wilbur and Orville Wright made history here on December 17, 1903 by piloting four successful flights with their powered, heavier-than-air flying machine. Orville and Wilbur had been visiting the Outer Banks for three years before their successful flights. They spent those trips learning how to fly by conducting gliding experiments from the sand dunes a few miles south of the town of Kitty Hawk. These sons of Ohio traveled all the way to the Outer Banks because it had all the elements that they needed to safely and secretly learn how to fly: wind, sand, and isolation.

Wright Brothers National Memorial encompasses the spot where Wilbur and Orville made their world-changing first flights, the historic sand dune where they did most of their gliding, and the location they lived while they were experimenting in the Outer Banks.

Use the links below to explore the rest of Orville and Wilbur's story, learn about how they unlocked the secrets of flight, or discover things you can do at the park with your friends, family, or school group.

 
  • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at visitor center
    News

    News Releases for Wright Brothers National Memorial

  • Reproduction 1903 Wright Flyer inside visitor center
    Photos and Multimedia

    Photos and Videos of Wright Brothers National Memorial

  • The Wright Flyer is shown in the moment of first takeoff with Orville as pilot and Wilbur alongside
    Researching the Wrights

    Learn about the Wright Brothers' Momentous Achievements at Kitty Hawk

  • Students entering the Visitor Center
    Education

    Educational Programs at Wright Brothers National Memorial

  • Child flying kite
    Kids and Youth

    Programs for Children at Wright Brothers National Memorial

  • Color Guard and rangers at memorial
    Management

    Management Practices and Policies at Wright Brothers National Memorial

  • Bookstore inside visitor center
    Bookstore

    Visit the Eastern National Bookstore at Wright Brothers National Memorial

Last updated: October 28, 2021

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Wright Brothers National Memorial
1401 National Park Drive

Manteo, NC 27954

Phone:

252 473-2111

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