The Cape Fear Museum of History & Science has officially opened its new home, marking an exciting new chapter for North Carolina’s oldest history museum.

 

The shared facility brings together the Cape Fear Museum and the New Hanover County Library’s main branch, which opened in October 2025. The museum’s opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by County Commissioners and community members, followed by the Grand Opening Summer Soiree.

 

County Manager Chris Coudriet reflected on the significance of the new facility, noting that the “building respects the legacy while giving the museum the space and the tools to serve the next generation.”

 

The new museum features a 60-seat planetarium and three floors of exhibits focused on the history of Wilmington and the Lower Cape Fear region, spaces for imaginative play and storytelling, and hands-on science activities for visitors of all ages. A large solar panel canopy provides shade for the entrance courtyard and outdoor exhibits while offsetting much of the facility’s power demand.

 

The community response has been impressive. In its first five days, the museum welcomed more than 4,200 visitors.

As a proud part of the Project team, we’re thrilled to see this community resource open its doors and begin serving residents and visitors alike.