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Wilmington is a port city in and the county seat of New Hanover County in coastal southeastern North Carolina, United States. With a population of 115,451 at the 2020 census, it is the eighth-most populous city in the state.
- Learn About The Way People Lived in The 19th Century at The Bellamy Mansion
- Peer Back in Time at The Cape Fear Museum of Science and History
- Explore The Decks of The USS North Carolina, A Restored WWII Battleship
- Breathe in The Salt-Tinged Air While Taking in The Views Along The Riverwalk
- Stop and Smell The Azaleas in Airlie Gardens
- Ponder Nature’s Oddities at The Museum of The Bizarre
- Indulge in A Multi-Course Feast at One of The Best Restaurants in Wilmington
- Enjoy A Day by The Seaside at Wrightsville Beach
- Go For A Scenic Paddle Through Banks Channel
- Have A Drink at One of Wilmington’s Best Local Hangouts
The grand 22-room mansion in Wilmington’s historic districtgives an eye-opening perspective of how residents lived prior to and during the Civil War. A self-guided tour takes you through the entire house from basement to belvedere as well as to the restored quarters of the people who were enslaved here at the back of the property. Along the way, yo...
Even the most reluctant of museum-goers tend to have a great time exploring the fascinating collections of this Smithsonian affiliate. Open since 1898, the Cape Fear Museum of Science and History has exhibited everything from 8000-year-old Native American artifacts and a prehistoric ground sloth (the skeleton) to Michael Jordan memorabilia – the NB...
The massive, 45,000-ton USS North Carolinaplayed a major role during conflicts in the Pacific. You can learn all about the vessel’s adventures and see what life was like for the 2300 wartime sailors who lived and worked aboard this floating city on a self-guided tour. Visiting the ship’s nine different levels, you’ll pass living spaces, the barbers...
Skirting along the Cape Fear River, the Riverwalk is hands-down the best place in Wilmington for a memorable stroll. The boardwalk path, which runs for 1.75 miles, passes waterfront parks, restaurant terraces and bars, with fine viewpoints along the way. Some 30 years in the making, the Riverwalk remains the pride of Wilmington since its completion...
If you’re around in early spring, don’t miss a visit to the 67-acre Airlie Gardens. Thousands of bright azaleas transform these botanical gardens into a brilliant kaleidoscope of colors. At other times of the year, the Airlie is still worth your time as there’s always something in bloom, and the garden's icons – like its centuries-old live oak tree...
What are the best cheap things to do in Wilmington? The list in this budget-friendly town runs rather long, but at the top is undoubtedly the Museum of the Bizarre. For a mere $3, you can check out one collector’s macabre assemblage of exotica, from a taxidermy two-headed goat to an imprint of Bigfoot’s, uh big foot. Afterward, head to the Laser Va...
Famed for its seasonal fare, PinPoint Restaurantserves some of the best cooking in the south. Executive chef Cameron Garvey sources from local fishers, farmers and foragers with a menu that changes nightly. Expect mouthwatering seafood (like sea bass carpaccio topped with caviar), tender grilled meats with surprising accents (hemp butter, duck fat,...
Just east of Wilmington, a short causeway leads out to the island of Wrightsville Beach. Four miles of sandy shoreline sets the stage for a memorable seaside getaway. Come early to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, or spend the day relaxing on the beach and frolicking in the waves. Whether you’re looking for the best free things to do in the are...
Immerse yourself in the rhythms of coastal life on a paddling adventure near Wilmington. Picture yourself gliding past marsh grass on the mirrorlike waters of the Banks Channel as an osprey soars overhead, and you’ll understand why so many local paddlers rave about this unique area. Wrightsville SUPrents standup paddleboards, kayaks and other aquat...
The Satellite Bar and Loungehits all the right notes when it comes to nightlife. There’s always something on whether it’s DJs spinning danceable indie grooves on vinyl or live bluegrass bands holding court (most Sundays). The big outdoor terrace is a dog-friendly spot to play a few games of cornhole or sip a craft brew and watch the evening unfold.
Things to Do in Wilmington, North Carolina: See Tripadvisor's 98,926 traveler reviews and photos of Wilmington tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Wilmington. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
From Wilmington’s vibrant riverfront and Riverwalk that winds around the storied Cape Fear River to three nearby island beaches, there’s something about the water and energy here that transforms and enthralls visitors.
Wilmington is a vibrant riverfront city and the most accessible coastal area in the state. The pedestrian-friendly Riverwalk winds along the Cape Fear River, connecting many of the city’s shops, cafés, and nightlife with waterfront hotels, parks and the Port City Marina.
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Wilmington, which include: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by HiltonEmbassy...
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Wilmington include: Fish Bites Seafood RestaurantCape Fear Seafood CompanyIndochine WilmingtonCirca 1922Sav...
- Wilmington is known for some of its popular attractions, which include: Cape Fear SerpentariumAirlie GardensRiverwalkBattleship North CarolinaHisto...
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Wilmington: Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat CruiseHistory a...
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Wilmington between December and February, when hotel prices...
Explore the city's expansive 230-plus-block National Register Historic District, one of the largest and most picturesque in the country. Wander along brick-lined streets shaded by moss-draped live oaks and encounter charming churches, classic architecture and historic homes.
Apr 7, 2023 · From the Riverwalk in the Historic District to the more out-of-the-way parks and farms, entertainment is guaranteed while exploring the top tourist attractions in Wilmington, North Carolina. Can’t decide what to do?
