Moores Creek Bridge 250th will kick off the National Park Service’s America 250 events in February of 2026.
I love it when a true hidden gem gets the spotlight. The Moores Creek Bridge Revolutionary War Battlefield isn’t one most people have heard of—but it’s definitely worth a visit.
Nestled just outside Wilmington, North Carolina, this modest but mighty site marks a Revolutionary moment—the moment when patriots flipped the script on Loyalists, setting North Carolina and the colonies on the path to independence.
And guess what? The 250th anniversary of that very battle is just around the corner in February of 2026. And Moores Creek will play a major part of America 250 festivities, serving as the official kickoff for the National Park Service.
So if you’ve ever wanted to walk where history was made, now’s your chance.
Before we dive into this post, I invite you to grab a copy of my TRAVEL PLANNER. This 16-page PDF guide helps you organize your trip, from what to pack, to preparing a budget and keeping a schedule.
Past Lane Travels contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read our disclaimer for more information.
When Is North Carolina’s First In Freedom Festival Celebrating America 250?
North Carolina is planning a week of celebrating America’s 250th, including commemorating the Battle at Moores Creek Bridge, on Feb. 21-28, 2026.
When Is the 250th Anniversary of The Battle of Moores Creek Bridge Being Commemorated In North Carolina?
Moores Creek National Battlefield will be commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek February 26-28, 2026.
Moores Creek Bridge Battlefield Anniversary
After visiting Moores Creek Bridge for its 249th anniversary, I’m so excited that it will serve as the America 250 kickoff event in 2026. The battlefield isn’t huge, and the battle itself only lasted a few minutes.
But the results were impactful for the birth of our nation, and that’s what makes it a true hidden gem.
This battle was the first decisive patriot victory in the American Revolution and led to North Carolina to being the first colony to authorize its delegates to vote for independence, making North Carolina the “first in freedom.”
This is one of North Carolina’s Revolutionary War sites that should be on your bucket list for a Revolutionary Road Trip.
Quick tip: Save money while exploring top Gettysburg attractions by booking with Viator or Get Your Guide.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Moores Creek?
Good news—it won’t cost you a cent to step onto this 87-acre park.
Moores Creek National Battlefield has no entrance fee—you can explore the trails, visitor center, and battlefield at zero cost.
The trails have excellent wayside markers that explain the battle, but before heading out, I recommend visiting the Visitor Center.
There’s a short, engaging film that really sets the scene for the battle. I found it really helpful in understanding how things played out. There are also displays of original artifacts like weapons, powder horns, and personal items carried by soldiers.
I also loved browsing the gift shop—it’s the kind of place where you can pick up Revolutionary-themed books, kids’ activities, or even a souvenir to remember your visit.
Getting To Moores Creek Bridge
Address: 40 Patriot’s Hall Drive, Currie, N.C.
Located in Currie, N.C., Moores Creek is about 20 miles northwest of Wilmington—a scenic and easy 30‑minute drive via I-40 or US‑421 N to the junction of NC 210 to 210.
- From Raleigh: Roughly 2 hours south via I‑40.
- From Fayetteville: Around 90 minutes on NC‑87.
- There’s free parking, a small but informative visitor center, restrooms, and mostly flat, accessible trails perfect for a family afternoon.
Moores Creek Bridge Battlefield Hours: The visitor center is closed Sundays, Mondays and federal holidays. Trails are open daily.
Moores Creek Bridge 250th Anniversary Celebration
America 250 Kickoff: Feb 26–28, 2026
Here’s where it gets epic: Moores Creek is not just celebrating—it’s leading the way.
The 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge is set for Feb. 26–28, 2026, and it’s the official kickoff of the National Park Service’s 2026 America250 events.
Moores Creek Bridge 250th Schedule
- Thursday, Feb 26 – Day of Education
School groups descend on the battlefield for immersive living history demos. - Friday, Feb 27 – Day of Commemoration
A solemn wreath‑laying ceremony, living history vignettes, and special guests bring the day to life. - Saturday, Feb 28 – Day of Community Celebration
Music, colonial games, a “Freedom” art show, food trucks, and traditional living‑history displays make it part festival, part time machine.
Add-ons and local flavor:
The larger North Carolina First in Freedom Festival will span the week of Feb 21–28, with Moore’s Creek as the focal point kick-off for arts, culture, and history-themed regional events
Demonstrations, Vendors & Living History
- Moores Creek living history activities include musket and cannon demonstrations, colonial trades like blacksmithing, candle‑dipping, spinning, cooking, powder‑horn making and more.
- Food vendors and trucks—Saturday’s community day will feature food trucks alongside crafts and art booths in a fun, festival-style setting.
- Vivid, immersive experiences every day: from earthwork sketches to musical interludes and demonstrations that bring the past alive.
History Of The Battle Of Moore’s Creek
Let’s rewind the tapes of history for a second.
On Feb. 27, 1776, North Carolina Patriots set a trap. With the bridge over Moores Creek sabotaged and greased, Loyalist Scottish Highlanders marched forward—only to be met with musket and cannon fire at close range.
The clash was over in minutes, yet its effects rippled far beyond that creek. The Patriots’ victory crushed Loyalist momentum and sent shockwaves through the colonies—North Carolina would enact the Halifax Resolves, becoming the first colony to authorize independence delegates.
Standing at the reconstructed bridge today, you feel that pivot in time—tiny in geography but colossal in significance.
Monuments At Moores Creek
Along the trail that winds around this Revolutionary War battlefield, you’ll see four additional monuments.
- The Patriot (Grady) Monument, erected in 1857, commemorates both the battle and Private John Grady, the only patriot killed in the battle.
- The Loyalist Monument, dedicated in 1909, honors supporters of the British cause who “did their duty as they saw it.”
- The James Moore Monument honors the first Moores Creek Battleground Association president.
- The Women’s Monument commemorates heroic women of the Lower Cape Fear region and the role of women in the American Revolution.
Quick Takeaway And Visit Tips
Why you should go:
This Revolutionary War battlefield might be quiet, but those stones, planks, and grassy fields whisper big stories. And with the Moores Creek Bridge 250th approaching, there’s no better time to plan your visit.
The History Trail (3/4 mile) begins at the visitor center and connects the battlefield’s historic features in an easy stroll.
It briefly follows the trace of the Old Stage Road, dating from 1743 and used by both sides in 1776. A boardwalk across Moores Creek leads to Caswell’s campsite with its view of the bridge.
Crossing the bridge takes you to the Bridge Monument and the reconstructed patriot earthworks where the partly dismantled bridge was key to the patriot victory.
Pro Tip: Allow at least 90 minutes to tour the battlefield and see the visitor center exhibits and movie. A diorama depicts the bridge scene as patriots opened fire early on Feb. 27, 1776.
There are also lots of historical sites to visit in nearby Wilmington.
Plan Your Visit: Stay, Eat & Explore
Where to Stay
After a day steeped in Revolutionary history, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to rest—and Currie might be small, but nearby Wilmington and Leland have some great picks:
- ARRIVE Wilmington – A boutique favorite that scores high for comfort and charm. Stylish, and centrally located for easy downtown exploring. Bonus: Awesome outside sitting areas with fireplaces.
- Lumina on Wrightsville Beach by IHG – Oceanfront hotel on nearby Wrightsville Beach! Stupendous property with lots of amenities. Worth the splurge.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront – A polished riverfront option with indoor pool, cooked-to-order breakfast, and a convenient downtown feel. Around a 20-minute drive from Moore’s Creek.
Where to Eat
These are all located in historic buildings, which makes them even more appealing!
- The Pilot House: Located on the Wilmington Riverwalk, this waterfront restaurant serves up fresh seafood and classic American dishes in a cozy, nautical atmosphere—perfect for refueling after a day of exploring.
- Front Street Brewery: For a more relaxed vibe, stop by this local favorite offering an excellent selection of craft beers and hearty pub-style meals. It’s a great spot to mingle with locals and fellow history enthusiasts.
- The Dixie Grill: If you’re looking for a delicious Southern breakfast or a homecooked lunch, head to the Dixie Grill where a warm ambiance makes every visit feel like coming home.
Other Historic Gems Nearby
Want to stretch your historical curiosity beyond Moores Creek? Add these to your itinerary:
- Burgwyn-Wright House: Beautifully preserved colonial home with an impressive history—complete with dungeons, secrets, and the charm of a bygone era.
- Brunswick Town and Fort Anderson – Tucked away along the Cape Fear River in North Carolina lie the haunting ruins of Brunswick Town—a once-thriving colonial seaport reduced to ashes during the Revolutionary War.
- Bellamy Mansion – Nestled in the heart of Wilmington, this grand home stands as a testament to both Southern history and architectural grandeur.
Wrap-Up Of Moores Creek 250th
Ready to walk through Revolutionary history where independence was born? Let Moores Creek be your launchpad. Book a cozy Wilmington or Leland stay, enjoy local cuisine along the river, and sprinkle in one or two local historic sites to top off your immersive getaway.
With the 250th Anniversary fast approaching and Moores Creek taking the spotlight as the official kickoff for America250, this is the perfect moment to visit.
Many thanks to Visit Wilmington River District and Island Beaches for hosting me. The opinions expressed are my own.
Use My Travel Resources
Find the perfect accommodations with Booking.com. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, they have a room for every preference, including pets and pools.
Discover the best tours and activities with Viator or Get Your Guide. Explore iconic landmarks, take guided tours and immerse yourself in history.
Rent a car with Discover Cars and enjoy the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, explore the countryside and make the most of your trip.
Need a flight? Check FareDrop for the best deals.
Don’t forget travel insurance with SafetyWing.
