Latimer House Museum
Step back in time at Latimer House Museum, a beautifully preserved Victorian home showcasing 19th-century life and the stories of the Latimer family.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Latimer House Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Latimer House Museum, a beautifully preserved Victorian home showcasing 19th-century life and the stories of the Latimer family.
"Absolutely fascinating! Reid is very knowledgeable. Thank you!"
💡 Guided Tour is Key
Docents are incredibly knowledgeable and bring the house's history to life with empathy. Don't miss their stories!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple rooms across different floors. Prioritize comfort for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Victorian Opulence
Throughout the house
Experience the grandeur of the 1800s with original furnishings, intricate chandeliers, and detailed decor.
Latimer Family History
Various rooms
Discover the stories of three generations of the Latimer family and their impact on Wilmington's history.
Courtyard Serenity
Front courtyard
Relax in the peaceful courtyard before your tour, a charming spot to soak in the historic atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💡 Guided Tour is Key
Docents are incredibly knowledgeable and bring the house's history to life with empathy. Don't miss their stories!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple rooms across different floors. Prioritize comfort for your visit.
📸 Capture the Details
The Victorian decor, original items, and family photos are stunning. Bring your camera!
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Some areas, especially the front steps, can be poorly lit. Be cautious when navigating.
Tips
from all over the internet
💡 Guided Tour is Key
Docents are incredibly knowledgeable and bring the house's history to life with empathy. Don't miss their stories!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple rooms across different floors. Prioritize comfort for your visit.
📸 Capture the Details
The Victorian decor, original items, and family photos are stunning. Bring your camera!
⚠️ Watch Your Step
Some areas, especially the front steps, can be poorly lit. Be cautious when navigating.
📅 Check for Events
Special tours like the 'gaslight' tour offer a unique perspective. Check their schedule!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Latimer House Museum for its fascinating history, well-preserved original items, and engaging guided tours. The Victorian decor and the stories of the Latimer family are consistently highlighted as positives. However, some guests noted issues with lighting on the exterior steps and the lack of full accessibility due to the historic nature of the building.
"We attended the “gaslight” tour Saturday night. It was interesting to see what the low light was like inside the house, history of the house and family. we had to leave by the front steps which were poorly lit and unfortunately, I fell down them. They need better lighting on the front steps and the side of the house to walk around to the back of it. The rear of the house is well lit."
Mark
"The Latimer House is located in Downtown Wilmington. Guided tours run on the hour, and if you arrive earlier, you can sit in the courtyard. This was my favorite of the three houses. It shows how the upper class lived with opulence.
The house is not handicap accessible as it was built in 1852. The house was built by Zebulon Latimer and has three stories with a basement, although not all areas are on the tour. The house is symmetrical as there are the same number of windows on each side. Three generations of the Latimers lived in the house before it became a museum and where the Cape Fear Historical Society is based. The iron water fountain in the garden used to be in a park in the middle of the road.
The house has 14 rooms, around 600 original items such as furniture, dishes, sculptures, in fantastic shape, as they had never been taken out of the shipping containers. The family tree was unique on the wall. You can even see where the original carpet was worn away. The house has a Victorian-style decor with a marble fireplace, velvet curtains, and intricate chandeliers. The walls in the foyer are painted to look like wallpaper. I enjoyed seeing all the photos.
My docent was knowledgeable and friendly. She provided the stories of those who lived in the house with empathy, as some of the stories are sad.
I highly recommend taking a tour of the Latimer House."
Rebecca M
"Absolutely fascinating! Reid is very knowledgeable. Thank you!"
Melissa Ann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Latimer House Museum is located in Downtown Wilmington. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation routes also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are usually parking options available in the downtown Wilmington area, though availability can vary. It's advisable to check local parking regulations and availability before your visit.
Yes, the grounds and courtyard are accessible and offer a pleasant space to explore before or after your tour. The rear of the house is also well-lit.
Absolutely! Latimer House Museum is a perfect addition to a day trip exploring historic Wilmington. Combine it with other downtown attractions for a full experience.
If traveling from further afield, driving is often the most convenient. Wilmington is accessible via major highways. Consider checking ride-sharing services upon arrival if you prefer not to drive downtown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Latimer House Museum typically operates with guided tours running on the hour. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours and tour schedules, as these can vary.
Admission is usually by guided tour. While specific prices can change, there's often a suggested donation or a set ticket price. Check their website for current admission fees.
It's recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for weekend visits or special events, to ensure your spot. This also helps the museum manage visitor numbers.
Information on discounts for seniors, students, or groups is usually available on the museum's website. It's always a good idea to inquire directly if you qualify for any special rates.
The 'gaslight' tour offers a unique historical experience, simulating the low-light conditions of the house during its original era. It's a special event that provides a different perspective on the history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The house was built in 1852 and has multiple stories, making it not fully handicap accessible. Some areas may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility challenges.
A guided tour usually lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to explore the main rooms and learn about the history.
You'll see around 600 original items, including furniture, dishes, and sculptures, displayed in a Victorian-style setting with marble fireplaces and chandeliers.
Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors. It's always a good idea to confirm this when you arrive or check their website.
Photography policies can vary. While many historic house museums allow non-flash photography, it's best to check the museum's specific guidelines upon arrival or on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
The Victorian interiors with chandeliers and period furniture are highly photogenic. The courtyard also offers lovely exterior shots.
Generally, flash photography is discouraged in historic homes to protect delicate artifacts and furnishings. Always adhere to the museum's specific photography rules.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, especially for interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the rooms.
Yes, drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historic sites. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Yes, the exterior of the house and its grounds are generally open for photography, offering a glimpse into its historical architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to keep children more comfortable. The courtyard can be a nice spot for them to stretch their legs before or after the tour. Focus on the visual aspects like the grand furniture and chandeliers to capture their imagination.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Participating in a 'gaslight' tour can amplify the spooky atmosphere, offering a unique, dimly lit perspective of the house's history and alleged paranormal activity. It's a chance to experience the lore firsthand.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the family tree and the stories of the Latimer generations. The museum's commitment to preserving original artifacts ensures an authentic historical experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Lewis Latimer
+2Latimer was more than just an inventor; he was a draftsman, author, and the son of formerly enslaved parents. His life story is a testament to perseverance and innovation. The Lewis Latimer House Museum aims to educate the public about his significant achievements and his impact on technology and society.
+1This dual focus highlights the diverse history associated with the Latimer name. Whether exploring the opulent Victorian life in Wilmington or the groundbreaking inventions in Queens, the Latimer legacy is rich and multifaceted.
+2Exploring the Historic Architecture
The house boasts 14 rooms, many of which are furnished with around 600 original items belonging to the Latimer family. This includes furniture, dishes, and sculptures, offering a tangible connection to the past. The preservation of these items, some of which were stored for years, provides an authentic glimpse into the domestic life of the era.
While the house is a historical treasure, it's important to note its limitations regarding accessibility. As a building from the mid-19th century, it was not designed with modern accessibility standards in mind. Visitors should be prepared for stairs and potentially uneven surfaces.
Ghostly Encounters and Local Lore
These accounts often involve sightings or feelings of a presence, with some suggesting the spirits of children who may have lived or died in the house. The atmospheric setting of the old house, combined with its long history, lends itself to such tales.
While the paranormal aspect is a popular draw for some, the museum's primary focus remains on its rich history and the lives of the Latimer family. The 'gaslight' tours, which simulate low-light conditions, can enhance the eerie ambiance and add to the mystique of the house.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit