Museum of the Bizarre
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Museum of the Bizarre

4.2
·2k reviews·Wilmington, United States

Discover a world of oddities, from unicorn horns to serial killer art, at this unique Wilmington museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate

CrowdLow
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Museum of the Bizarre

Museum of the Bizarre

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover a world of oddities, from unicorn horns to serial killer art, at this unique Wilmington museum. TikTokInstagram

4.2
(2k reviews)

"This place has got it all - sword swallowers, mirror mazes, and real serial killer paintings!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Admission

General admission is very reasonably priced at $3. Look for Groupons to save even more! :ticket:

📸 Photo Restrictions

Photography is limited to designated spots. Respect the rules to capture your favorite oddities. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unicorn Horn & Oddities

Unicorn Horn & Oddities

Main Exhibition Hall

Marvel at a genuine unicorn horn and a collection of the truly unusual. A must-see for the curious!

Serial Killer Memorabilia

Serial Killer Memorabilia

Dedicated Exhibit Area

See actual paintings and artifacts from infamous serial killers. A chilling glimpse into dark history.

Live Sword Swallowing

Live Sword Swallowing

Main Exhibition Hall

Witness daring live demonstrations of sword swallowing, a thrilling spectacle for all ages.

Reddit
Maco Light Lantern

Maco Light Lantern

NC Haunting & Witchcraft Section

See the actual lantern from the legendary tale of Joe Baldwin and the Maco Light.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Spooktacular Visit

Weekdays offer a more intimate experience with fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the oddities. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the unique displays and potentially catch live demonstrations without feeling rushed. Reddit

Photography & Optional Exhibits

While general admission is affordable, be aware that photography is restricted to designated areas. Reddit Optional add-ons like the laser room and mirror maze offer extra fun, but reviews suggest the mirror maze might be a quick experience for the price. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Catch live demos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you know downtown Wilmington NC has a Museum of the Bizarre? Similar to a Ridley’s Believe it or Not. Although it wasn’t my cup of tea, it may be cool for a Halloween activity if you are into the things mentioned. Great, friendly staff!!! 👏🏼 #wilmingtonnc #museum #bizarre #riverwalk #comewithme #downtownwilmington #capefearriver #wilmingtonnorthcarolina #summermashup #thingstodoinwilmingtonnc
@ladykristledown
22.5K likes • 252.5K views

🎯 Affordable Admission

General admission is very reasonably priced at $3. Look for Groupons to save even more! Reddit :ticket:

📸 Photo Restrictions

Photography is limited to designated spots. Respect the rules to capture your favorite oddities. Reddit :camerawithflash:

@burgwinwrighthouse #intuition #historic #History #ghoststory #nc #wilmingtonnc #mediumship #spiritualawakening #psychicmedium #witchtok
@rebekahtheghostguide
12.9K likes • 208.8K views
Explore the Museum of the Bizarre in Downtown Wilmington! #musuemofthebizarre #bringitdowntown #museums #bizarre #wilmingtonnc @museum_of_the_bizarre
wilmingtondowntowninc
37 likes • 1.4K views

✨ Optional Exhibits

Consider the laser room and mirror maze for extra fun, but reviews suggest the maze is brief. Reddit :mirror_ball:

👻 Not for the Faint of Heart

Some displays can be intense; it might be scary for very young children. Reddit :ghost:

Museum of the Bizarre and Wilmington, NC
shane.bass1
25 likes • 151 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Admission

General admission is very reasonably priced at $3. Look for Groupons to save even more! Reddit :ticket:

📸 Photo Restrictions

Photography is limited to designated spots. Respect the rules to capture your favorite oddities. Reddit :camerawithflash:

✨ Optional Exhibits

Consider the laser room and mirror maze for extra fun, but reviews suggest the maze is brief. Reddit :mirror_ball:

👻 Not for the Faint of Heart

Some displays can be intense; it might be scary for very young children. Reddit :ghost:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Downtown

Combine your visit with a stroll along the Cape Fear Riverwalk. Instagram :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the Museum of the Bizarre to be an affordable and uniquely entertaining experience, especially for those who enjoy oddities and the macabre. While some exhibits might be intense for younger children and photo restrictions are in place, the collection of unusual artifacts, including movie memorabilia and local ghost stories, makes it a memorable stop. TikTokReddit

"We visited on a weekday and there was only a few other people. We had purchased a Groupon for the entry fee. The regular fee is $3 per person. They have 2 other optional exhibits, a laser room and a mirror room that you can pay separate fees for. Parking is on the street. They ask for you not to take photos except at specific photo spots. There are cabinets filled with the odd and unusual. A bit of movie memorabilia, some haunting and witch stories from around NC, a corner about serial killers. Decor is gothic in style. While there a gentleman did a sword swallowing exhibition for tips. We visited with our young adult sons and had a fun time. There is a single public restroom."

April Williams

"This place is AWESOME! I drove 2 hours just to come see this place and it delivered 100%. A must see if you're in Wilmington. Sword Swallowers, Mirror Mazes, actual paintings from REAL Serial Killers, Anton LaVey's actual chair, and a surprising amount of unicorn paraphernalia -- this place has got it all so do yourself a favor and check out Museum of the Bizarre!"

Nick Servin

"It's more Museum of the Occult. Some interesting things in there that aren't curated. Be aware it might be scary for little children. The Lazer room and hall of mirrors.arw.fun."

Scott Campbell

What People Like

Affordable admission
Unique oddities
Live demonstrations

What People Dislike

Photo restrictions
Mirror maze short
Intense for young kids

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Museum of the Bizarre is located in downtown Wilmington, NC, right on the Cape Fear Riverwalk. Street parking is available. Instagram It's easily accessible for day trips exploring the downtown area. Reddit

Yes, street parking is available in the downtown area near the museum. Reddit Be prepared for potential meter fees or time limits depending on the location. :parking:

Absolutely! The museum is situated on the popular Cape Fear Riverwalk, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring other downtown Wilmington sights. Instagram :walking:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is very affordable at $3 per person. Reddit You can often find Groupons for even better deals. Reddit :ticket:

Yes, look for Groupons for discounted entry fees. Reddit It's always a good idea to check their website or social media for any current promotions. :moneywithwings:

Typically, you can purchase tickets upon arrival. However, booking in advance, especially if using a Groupon, is recommended to ensure smooth entry. :calendar:

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :clock1:

Yes, the laser room and mirror maze are optional exhibits with separate fees in addition to general admission. Reddit :game_die:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a collection of oddities, including a unicorn horn, creepy skulls, movie memorabilia, witch stories, and even items related to serial killers. TikTokReddit It's a unique and eclectic mix of the strange and unusual. :sparkles:

Photography is restricted to specific designated photo spots within the museum. Reddit Be sure to ask staff for clarification on where you can take pictures. :camerawithflash:

Yes, the museum sometimes features live demonstrations, such as sword swallowing, which can be a thrilling addition to your visit. Reddit :performing_arts:

While it's an attraction for all ages, some displays might be intense or scary for very young children. Reddit Parental discretion is advised. :child:

The museum houses the actual lantern associated with the legendary tale of Joe Baldwin and the Maco Light, a famous local ghost story. Reddit :ghost:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically offer food services. However, being located in downtown Wilmington, there are numerous restaurants and cafes nearby. Instagram :forkandknife:

Downtown Wilmington boasts a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, many of which are within walking distance of the museum. Instagram :restaurant:

📸 📸 Photography

The museum has designated photo spots. Ask staff for guidance on where you can capture your favorite bizarre finds. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Video recording is generally not permitted inside the museum. Reddit Focus on enjoying the exhibits and capturing still photos in allowed areas. :movie_camera:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of the Bizarre offers a unique experience that can be fun for families, especially those with older children or teens who appreciate the unusual. While the general admission is affordable at $3, Reddit be mindful that some exhibits, like those related to serial killers, might be intense for younger or more sensitive children. Reddit Consider the optional laser room and mirror maze for added interactive fun, though reviews suggest the mirror maze is quite brief. Reddit It's a great way to introduce kids to quirky history and local lore in a memorable setting. :child:

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those fascinated by the paranormal and the macabre, the Museum of the Bizarre is a must-visit. As a self-proclaimed paranormal investigator noted, it feels like home. Reddit The museum features intriguing items like the Maco Light lantern, tied to a famous local ghost story, and displays on witchcraft and haunting tales from North Carolina. Reddit The collection of serial killer memorabilia and occult items also appeals to those interested in darker historical narratives. :ghost:

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

While photography is restricted to designated areas, Reddit the unique and often eerie exhibits provide excellent opportunities for striking visuals. Content creators can find interesting backdrops and subjects, especially if they focus on the officially permitted photo spots. Instagram+1 Remember that video recording is not allowed, so plan your content strategy around still photography. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Odd and Unusual

The Museum of the Bizarre in Wilmington, NC, lives up to its name by showcasing a captivating collection of the strange and unusual. From the mythical unicorn horn to unsettling serial killer memorabilia, the exhibits are designed to pique curiosity and perhaps send a shiver down your spine. TikTokReddit Visitors often highlight the eclectic nature of the displays, which range from historical oddities to pop culture curiosities. It's a place that embraces the unconventional, offering a unique perspective on the world's more peculiar aspects. Instagram

Beyond the static displays, the museum often features live entertainment, such as sword swallowing demonstrations, adding an interactive and thrilling element to the experience. Reddit This blend of static exhibits and live performance makes for a dynamic visit. The museum's gothic-inspired decor further enhances the atmosphere, creating an immersive environment for those who appreciate the darker or more unusual side of history and culture. Reddit

Navigating Wilmington's Riverfront Charm

Located directly on the Cape Fear Riverwalk, the Museum of the Bizarre is perfectly situated for visitors looking to explore downtown Wilmington. This prime location means you can easily combine your visit to the museum with a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic port city. Instagram

Downtown Wilmington itself offers a wealth of attractions, from charming boutiques and art galleries to historic sites and diverse dining options. Reddit The museum serves as an excellent starting point or a unique stop within a broader exploration of the area. Whether you're arriving for a day trip or spending more time in Wilmington, its central location makes it a convenient and memorable destination. Instagram

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