The North Carolina 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 to begin an exciting renovation. The building closed in October 2024 with construction set to begin in Summer 2025. The renovation process is expected to last two to three years.
We understand you may have questions about what’s happening, how it affects your visit, 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 North Carolina Museum of History is undergoing renovations to improve accessibility, enhance the visitor experience, and redefine 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. Construction is expected to begin in Summer 2025.
The museum will relocate its 150,000 artifacts to a secure and environmentally sound location to ensure their preservation during renovation.
Yes, the entire museum will temporarily be closed. However, the museum will continue to offer a robust schedule of public and educational programming. Plus, the Museum Shop will open a new storefront located at 108 Glenwood Ave in Raleigh in Spring 2025!
Yes! While the museum building is temporarily closed, the museum remains active across the state and online. We continue to offer programs, traveling 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 and beyond.
Yes. While the Raleigh location is temporarily closed, North Carolina’s state history museums—part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources—remain open across the state. These include regional sites in Beaufort, Elizabeth City, Fayetteville, Hatteras, Old Fort, and Southport. 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 virtual programming and special online content. Follow us.