by Brian Chiang
I think it is safe to assume that nerds the world over never lose their spirit for the pursuit of knowledge and have some undying sense of determination. When these two qualities are combined, the world better watch out!
A couple years ago, a couple friends and I watched a National Geographic documentary on airplanes at the Virginia Air and Space Center. After that viewing, I never viewed flying in an airplane the same again. Since then I have been grateful at any chance to ride in an airplane, have attempted to remind myself to not gripe about the hassles of flying each time I do fly, and have tried to remember the pure joy in the beauty of flight.
Fast forward to a brisk December afternoon this past month, another pair of friends and I visit Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina to nurture my enthusiasm for flying and pay homage to two fellow nerds who had a much greater passion for flying than I ever did.
The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a humble site and lacks the grandeur or pomp of other architectural structures built to commemorate events or the greatness of historical figures. But, their successful flight on December 17, 1903 speaks more about their genius and tenacity than any concrete slab ever could.
If youβre a fellow history buff, flying enthusiast, or want to cross off visiting another national park, you know where to look.
Plan Your Visit:
From November 2016 to late summer/fall of 2018, the Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center will be closed for a renovation project. However, the grounds, information, and bookstore services will remain open, so don't let this delay your visit!
Where:
1000 North Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
When:
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
*Except for Christmas Day
Entrance Fees:
Adult - $7.00
The fee allows entrance to Wright Brothers National Memorial for one person, 16 years old or older, for seven consecutive days from the date of purchase.
Children - $0.00
Free admission to Wright Brothers National Memorial for any person 15 years old and younger.
Have you visited the memorial? Let us know what you thought in the comments!
Brian is a "pseudo"-New York native with deep roots in Virginia who caught wanderlust ever since he could read a map.Among other reasons his travels are often dictated by his stomach, but he will also stay to explore everything else in between. No place (or cuisine) is off limits!