Wright Brothers National Memorial, Kill Devil Hills

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of two of America's greatest inventors, Orville and Wilbur Wright. Situated in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, this national memorial marks the site where the Wright brothers achieved the first successful powered airplane flights on December 17, 1903.

The memorial is a prominent destination for those interested in aviation history and innovation. At the heart of the site stands a towering granite monument, perched atop Kill Devil Hill, commemorating the brothers' historic achievements. Visitors can walk up the hill to the base of the monument, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including where the Wright brothers' first flights took place.

In addition to the monument, the memorial includes full-scale replicas of the Wright brothers' 1903 Flyer and the brothers' camp buildings, providing a glimpse into the modest conditions under which the Wrights worked. The Visitor Center houses exhibits that tell the story of the Wright brothers' journey from concept to flight, including a life-sized model of the 1903 Wright Flyer and interactive displays.

Educational programs and ranger-led talks are often available, offering insights into the challenges the Wrights faced and the impact of their work on modern aviation. Every year on December 17th, the park commemorates the anniversary of the first flight with a special ceremony.