There are so many great travel destinations in the US, and Wilmington, North Carolina certainly tops the list. It is considered one of the most picturesque cities in the US! The coastal city of Wilmington has a vibrant riverfront, historic architecture, a divine food scene, and all the Southern charm. Plus, it is the gateway to three beautiful island beaches! I spent several days here and had so much fun exploring the coastal city and also relaxing at the beach. Whether you’re a food lover, history enthusiast, art admirer, or someone who simply enjoys being by the water, Wilmington has something for you! Read on for the best things to do in Wilmington, NC.

Highlights of Wilmington, NC

There are so many reasons why Wilmington, NC is a must-visit travel destination!

Historic Downtown:

Wilmington’s historic downtown is a major highlight! It features beautifully preserved architecture from the 19th and early 20th centuries, creating a delightful backdrop for strolling around.

Water Activities:

Wilmington is located near several stunning beaches, making it a haven for beach lovers! Wrightsville Beach is where I visited, known for its pristine sands and excellent surfing conditions. Wilmington’s two other island beaches are Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Carolina Beach has a laid-back atmosphere and Kure Beach is known for its natural beauty.

Film and Television Industry:

Wilmington has earned the nickname “Hollywood East” due to its thriving film and television industry. Numerous movies and TV shows, such as “Dawson’s Creek,” “One Tree Hill,” “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” and “Iron Man 3,” have been filmed in the area. You can take guided tours to explore filming locations or even catch a glimpse of ongoing productions.

Museums and Historic Sites:

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Wilmington. The Cape Fear Museum of History & Science provides insight into the region’s natural and cultural history, while the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA offers an immersive experience aboard a World War II battleship.

Gardens and Parks:

Wilmington boasts several beautiful gardens and parks that offer a tranquil escape from the city! Highlights of greenspaces in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach include Airlie Gardens, Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens, and Harbor Way Gardens.

Cultural and Arts Scene:

Wilmington has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. The Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of live performances, including theater productions, music concerts, and dance shows. The Cameron Art Museum showcases regional artwork and hosts rotating exhibits. There are several sculptures and artwork on display in the museum’s outdoor space as well as the United States Colored Troops (USCT) Park. Featuring Boundless, a life-size bronze sculpture cast from USCT descendants and reannactors, The park serves as a place for the community to come together and reflect on the contributions of USCT Regiment soldiers and look forward to the future. Additionally, the city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the North Carolina Azalea Festival, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

Dining and Cuisine:

Food enthusiasts will find a diverse culinary scene in Wilmington. From seafood delicacies to international cuisines and Southern comfort food, there’s something to suit every taste. The city has a range of waterfront restaurants, charming cafes, and trendy eateries where you can savor delicious dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients!

Best Things to Do in Wilmington, NC

1. Explore Historic Downtown

Take a leisurely stroll through Wilmington’s historic downtown area. Admire the beautifully preserved architecture, browse through unique boutiques, and enjoy the lively atmosphere!

Check out these fun things to do in Historic Downtown Wilmington:

• Take a Historic Walking Tour: Embark on a guided or self-guided walking tour to explore the historic district of Wilmington, NC. Admire the well-preserved 19th and early 20th-century architecture, including grand mansions, museums, churches, and charming row houses. The architectural styles range from Victorian to Georgian and Federal.
• Visit St. James Episcopal Church: Step inside St. James Episcopal Church, one of the oldest churches in Wilmington. Marvel at its Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and historical significance of this sacred space.
• Explore the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science: Discover the natural and cultural history of the Cape Fear region at the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including local ecosystems, Native American history, the Civil War, and Wilmington’s film industry. The museum features interactive displays and artifacts that provide insight into the area’s past.
• Enjoy a performance at Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts: Catch a show at Thalian Hall, a historic theater that has been entertaining audiences since 1858. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance shows. Check out the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit!
• Discover the Wilmington Railroad Museum: Learn about the importance of the railroad in Wilmington’s history at the Wilmington Railroad Museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the city’s railroad heritage, including model trains, historic artifacts, and interactive displays.
• Shop at the Cotton Exchange: The Cotton Exchange is a historic shopping and dining complex! Situated in a restored 19th-century cotton warehouse, the Cotton Exchange offers a unique shopping experience with a blend of specialty stores, boutiques, galleries, and eateries.

• Enjoy the sunset at Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar: Offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Cape Fear River, Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar is a great spot to unwind, socialize, and enjoy delicious drinks and a fabulous sunset!

2. Stroll along the Riverwalk

Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk that follows the Cape Fear River. Enjoy views of the river, passing boats, and the Wilmington skyline. Along the way, you’ll find charming shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can stop for a bite to eat or grab a drink! The Riverwalk is known as one of the 10 Best Riverwalks according to USA Today.

If you love live music, then you’ll love the Riverwalk! Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park is great for live music.

3. Tour the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design

Step back in time with a visit to the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design, a grand historic mansion built in the 19th century. Explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn about the history of the house and the people who lived there. Be sure to visit the beautiful gardens surrounding the mansion as well!

4. Take a Riverboat Cruise

Experience the charm of the Cape Fear River with a riverboat cruise abroad Cape Fear Riverboats. Choose from sightseeing cruises, sunset cruises, or even dinner cruises while enjoying scenic views and learning about the river’s history. I went on the sunset cruise and had so much fun! Certainly one of the best things to do in Wilmington, NC!

5. Discover Airlie Gardens

Airlie Gardens is a stunning botanical garden with acres of lush greenery, colorful flowers, and majestic oak trees. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails, explore the various themed gardens, and don’t miss the famous Airlie Oak, a centuries-old tree.

6. Visit the Cameron Art Museum

Visiting the Cameron Art Museum offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of visual art and explore thought-provoking exhibitions! Whether you’re a passionate art enthusiast or simply seeking a cultural experience, the museum provides a space for inspiration and discovery.

The museum presents a rotating selection of exhibitions featuring various forms of visual art, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and more. Cameron Art Museum highlights the work of both regional and internationally recognized artists, offering visitors a chance to explore different artistic styles and perspectives.

7. Indulge in Local Cuisine

Wilmington offers a diverse culinary scene. From fresh seafood to Southern comfort food and international cuisine, there’s something to please every palate. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties like shrimp and grits or Carolina-style barbecue!

Here are some spots to check out!

• Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill: If you’re craving Mexican cuisine, Tower 7 is a casual, laid-back spot in Wrightsville Beach with a beachy vibe. Enjoy Baja-style tacos, burritos, and fresh salsas in a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t forget to try their famous fish tacos.
• Tarantelli’s Ristorante Italiano: Tarantelli’s offers a menu inspired by traditional Italian recipes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and homemade flavors. From classic pasta dishes to hearty meat and seafood options, their menu provides a variety of choices to satisfy Italian food lovers.
• Michael’s on the Waterfront: As the name suggests, Michael’s on the Waterfront is situated along the Cape Fear River, providing a picturesque setting for your dining experience. The outdoor seating area allows you to enjoy beautiful views of the river and the downtown Wilmington skyline! The restaurant specializes in seafood and American cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

8. Explore Greenfield Park

Greenfield Park is a picturesque public park and one of the best things to do in Wilmington, NC is explore this spacious park! The park is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere and features a large pond, lush green spaces, and a variety of trees and plants. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of the city!

9. Treat Yourself at Native Salt Cave & Wellness

Take your trip to Wilmington to another level with a visit to Native Salt Cave & Wellness! Here you can immerse yourself in a Himalayan salt cave and choose from a variety of self-care treatments. I did a salt therapy session where I sat in the main salt cave and was able to sit back and relax while listening to the sound of soft ocean waves.

10. Head to the Beaches

Wilmington is known for its beautiful surrounding beaches! There truly is something for everyone at the beaches whether you want to relax or you want to hit the water. Head to Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, or Kure Beach to soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, and enjoy water activities like surfing, paddle boarding, fishing, and more. Each beach has its own unique atmosphere and attractions!

Wrightsville Beach is the closest beach to Wilmington and that is where I spent my time! There’s nothing like beautiful sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, and clear skies!

Here are things you have to do in Wrightsville Beach:

• Relax on the Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun, building sandcastles, or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore!
• Watersports: Wrightsville Beach offers excellent conditions for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and other watersports. Rent a surfboard or book a lesson to catch some waves, or try paddleboarding along the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway!
• Visit Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier: Take a walk on Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier, a popular landmark at Wrightsville Beach. Enjoy the views of the ocean and watch as fishermen try their luck. The pier is also a great spot for a leisurely stroll or to snap some memorable photos!
• Explore the Loop: The John Nesbitt Loop, more commonly known as “The Loop” encircles the island and is great for walking and running! Enjoy the gorgeous environment and you get your blood pumping on this 2.5-mile trail with scenic views.
• Take a boat to Masonboro Island Reserve: Just a short boat ride away from Wrightsville Beach, Masonboro Island is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This undeveloped barrier island offers miles of pristine shoreline, salt marshes, and maritime forests. Explore the island’s trails, go birdwatching, or enjoy a secluded beach day away from the crowds.

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