Wilmington, NC is one of my absolute favorite cities in North Carolina no matter the season and there is no shortage of fun things to do. Wilmington is located on the Cape Fear River and is an important shipping port It is conveniently located close to some of the state’s most popular island beaches, including Wrightsville and Carolina Beaches. Today, I am sharing my favorite things to do and where to stay when visiting the area. Stay tuned for my upcoming article where I highlight the best places to eat in Wilmington as well.
For more Wilmington content, check out this page. For my favorite restaurants in Wilmington, check out this article.
This article was originally written in May 2024 and has since been updated and recirculated for April 2025.
Wilmington, NC Travel Guide
Wilmington is one of our favorite places to get away to for a weekend because it is less than a 2-hour drive one way for us and makes it an easy spontaneous day trip or weekend getaway. We have done a little something different each trip, whether it has been focusing on the local art scene, spending a weekend celebrating the holidays, or a girls’ weekend shopping and exploring. Regardless, there are many things to do in the area no matter the season!
Things To Do in Wilmington, NC
Book Your Tickets for the Annual Old Wilmington Candlelight Tour in December
This is a rare opportunity to explore local history through touring homes, places of worship, and other architectural delights that will create a magical and educational holiday experience. This tour has been around for over 50 years and truly is spectacular. Walking down the winding alleys and cobblestone streets is a unique way to see and experience the historic homes in Wilmington’s Historic District. Get your tickets when they go on sale because it sells out *fast*.
This tour begins at the Latimer House at 126 S 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Catch a Concert at Greenfield Park Amphitheatre
This is such a cool venue to catch a show. Located in Greenfield Park, the amphitheater is all general admission seating that is first-come, first-serve with 1200 seats. The backdrop is gorgeous with the lake as the backdrop. There are great varieties of food options, including food trucks and vegan & vegetarian options. Don’t let the smaller venue deter you, either. Some great artists perform here!
Looking for other concert options? Check out Live Oak Pavillion in downtown Wilmington.
Greenfield Lake Amphitheater is at 1941 Amphitheatre Dr, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Celebrate the Holidays with Enchanted Airlie Gardens
Since 2005, guests have visited Airlie Gardens to take in the holiday season’s sparkling lights and festive sounds. Enjoy a self-guided stroll through holiday lights and music. Tickets must be purchased in advance, as dates and times will sell out. Plan on spending at least an hour exploring the grounds. There are drinks and snacks available for purchase as well.
Airlie Gardens is at 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403.
Check Out the Artwork at Cameron Art Museum
Cameron Art Museum offers such a delightful opportunity to gather with exceptional exhibits, lifelong learning of the arts, public programs, and special events. Join the museum staff every Friday at 1:00 PM to learn more about Boundless, a public sculpture by North Carolina artist Stephen Hayes. Make plans to stay for lunch or brunch at the CAM Cafe while checking out the various exhibits and the museum shop.
Cameron Art Museum is at 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412.
Enjoy the Variety of Shops & Restaurants in the Cargo District
The Cargo District was founded in 2017 and offers a unique take on living and shopping in the Port City. The nod to the shipping industry and a sustainable yet contemporary design make this such a fun way to spend an afternoon. There are restaurants, salons, creative studios, shops, a wine room, a bookstore, and a bar to people watch and enjoy the surroundings. Some favorite spots of ours: are Beat Street for lunch with drinks in the Alcove Beer Garden, Auggie & Zo, Hello Love, the Plant Outpost, and the Roasted Bookery.
The Cargo District is at 1605 Queen St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Explore Airlie Gardens No Matter the Season
Airlie Gardens is always a must-visit and it is beautiful regardless of the season. There are 67 acres and have been around for a century. Airlie is a beautiful, historic garden, and it also serves as the last point of filtration for the Bradley Creek watershed. Bring a blanket and a book and relax for an afternoon. Or take a stroll around the various parts of the gardens to take in the scenes. One of my favorite spots is the Spring Garden with the beautiful fountain. The website is also maintained to share what’s blooming!
Airlie Gardens is at 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403.
Kayak with Paddle NC at Carolina Beach State Park
Explore the wonders of North Carolina’s coastal State Parks with Paddle NC’s Sunset and Eco Tours. The small group sizes guarantee a personalized experience as our knowledgeable guides take participants through the beauty of Carolina Beach State Park. Tours are offered at two different times during the day, 9AM and 2PM and reservations are required. Shawn was an incredible tour guide and offered a lot of history, and information on geography and ecology. Paddle NC also offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals if that is more your speed.
Carolina Beach State Park is at 1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428.
Learn Local History on a Wilmington Walking Tour
There are so many different options for walking tours in Wilmington no matter your interest. If history is your passion, check out Wilmington Walking Tours for a walking tour that gives a history and architecture tour. There is a fun option during happy hour, too! Amanda is incredibly knowledgable and fun. For film or TV show junkies, take a self-guided tour of notable filming locations for popular shows such as One Tree Hill and Dawson’s Creek. Into Civil War history? Head down to Kure Beach to take a self-guided tour of Fort Fisher State Historic Site. If haunted tours are more of your interest, check out the Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington or a haunted pub crawl.
Wilmington Walking Tours begins at 215 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Plop Down on an Island Beach
photo by GloryRoze Photography
The area offers three amazing beaches between Wrightsville, Carolina, and Kure. Bring a beach chair, a towel, and some sunscreen, and enjoy an afternoon in the sun. Frankly, I prefer the beach in the off-seasons because it is still gorgeous, yet there are less crowds. Most places are open year-round, too!
Re-live History on the USS North Carolina
Authentically restored, this battleship participated in every offensive battle in the Pacific theatre during World War II. There are nine levels to explore, including opportunities to climb inside gun turrets, learn more about the early computers used, and see where the crew ate, slept, and worked. Crew stories throughout the Ship introduce you to the 2,000 young men who called the USS North Carolina home. Pack a picnic and enjoy Battleship Park and the views of the Wilmington Riverwallk.
USS North Carolina is at 1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Relax and Rejuvenate with a Spa Treatment at 20 Orange Spa
20 Orange Spa is such a hidden gem in the River District Wilmington complete with a gorgeous rooftop with views of the Cape Fear River. The spa itself is gorgeous, sleek, and tranquil and offers a variety of services including massages with add-ons like scalp treatments, spot stones, cupping, dry brushing, esthetic services, body treatments, and thermotherapy. If you are local, they offer memberships and they also have packages. Additionally, their rooftop is set up for a unique experience for a couple’s massage or for a snack and happy hour spot following a service. It is a must-visit spot! Make your appointments in advance and be sure to check out their shop to bring home their natural sugar lip scrub, signature eye serum, or scalp oil.
20 Orange Spa is at 215 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Shop Local in the River District & Beyond
One of my favorite ways to learn about a city or town is to explore their local shops. I mentioned the Cargo District earlier, which offers some really great local boutiques. The River District offers 30 specialty shops and restaurants connected by open-air courtyards in the 19th-century Cotton Exchange. Chandler’s Wharf is another old building with new shops as it is home to several boutiques. If you are a book lover, stop by Papercut Books for a serene bookshop experience. If you are heading to Wrightsville, be sure to stop at Redix, a staple since 1969, for something for everyone, including upscale boutique items.
Sip Local at the Breweries in the Area
Wilmington and the island beaches have such great local brewery options. Wrightsville Beach Brewery has a delicious selection of beers and its food menu is outstanding. Don’t skip on their curly fries, either! Waterman’s Brewing Company is another fun spot to stop for a beer, some snacks, and a meal. Check out the Brooklyn Arts District for more local breweries, including our favorite, Flytrap Brewing, which has an expanded beer garden and the nicest bartenders around.
If you head to Carolina Beach, stop by Good Hops Brewing, which is pet-friendly, has a disc golf course, weekly trivia, and has nice outdoor seating with firepits in cooler months. Bring your own food and hang out for a while!
Spend Time on Castle Street Arts District
Castle Street is such a cool area in Wilmington and if you opt to stay at the ARRIVE Hotel, it is incredibly walkable from there. Whether you are looking for vintage shops to hunt for hidden gems, a great record shop, a spot to grab a cup of coffee, or a place to eat, look no further than Castle Street.
Stroll the Riverwalk
There are nearly 2 miles of walkway along the Wilmington Riverwalk and offers gorgeous views, Live Oak Pavillion, restaurants, shops, art galleries, narrated tours, and places to sit in and enjoy the scenes.
Support Local Farmers & Makers at the Riverfront Farmers’ Market
Hosted every Saturday from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Dock Street, between 2nd and Water St, this farmers’ market offers excellent local produce and products by makers, including homemade bouquets, honey, artwork, jewelry, dog treats, and more.
Take a Riverboat Cruise with Wilmington Water Tours
Relax and enjoy the scenery on a cruise with Wilmington Water Tours down the Cape Fear River to learn more about Wilmington. The captain and crew share fun facts and historical anecdotes to help provide new perspectives on Wilmington’s history and ecology. Be sure to bring your camera. There are tons of photo opportunities along the way.
On the even hours, Wilmington Water Tours cruise north along the Historic Downtown and Eagles Island, where you see the past come alive. Capture unique views of the Battleship, learn about rice plantations, and view shipwrecks, flora, and fauna on this 50-minute adventure. On the odd hours, the tour heads south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports and shares the history of a WWII Wilmington shipyard along with current facts while watching tug boats, container ships, and pleasure boats.
Wilmington Water Tours is at 212 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Treasure Hunt at Wilmington’s Vintage Spots
Wilmington boasts some incredible vintage and antique shops, including my personal favorite, Jess James + Co, located on Castle Street. It is so elegantly curated and has some real treasures. Plan on spending quite a bit of time going through her shop and taking everything in. Rosie Revolution is another great spot to stop for an excellent selection of vintage clothing and accessories. Another personal favorite is The Ivy Cottage, a delightful consignment shop.
Visit the Wilmington Railroad Museum
If model trains are of interest, make plans to visit the Wilmington Railroad Museum to see the model trains and check out the 100-year-old steam locomotive. There is a spectacular room that features an interactive model train that is considered one of the best in the United States. It highlights stops along the Atlantic Coastal Line including Wilson, NC, and Selma, NC that have the most unique touches, including their farm baseball teams, county fairs, etc.
Wilmington Railroad Museum is at 505 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Wrap Up Your Day with a Sunset Harbor Cruise
This hour-and-a-half cruise is the best way to enjoy the golden hour. It is the Trailborn Surf & Sound, formerly the Blockade Runner‘s, most popular cruise and a great way to wind down after a day of adventures in the area. This cruise lets you explore the local area and offers the best views of the Island.
Located across the street from the Trailborn Surf & Sound Resort.
Trailborn Surf & Sound is at 275 Waynick Blvd, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.
Places To Stay in Wilmington, NC
ARRIVE Hotel by Palisociety – Wilmington
ARRIVE Hotel offers 34 guest rooms, a delicious restaurant onsite, a spacious courtyard with lawn games and fireplaces, and a gazebo bar. The rooms are modern, comfortable, and full of natural light and bright colors. Each room comes with an Apple TV and Grown Alchemist toiletries. Everything about the hotel is aesthetically pleasing and welcoming. It is a convenient location to walk to restaurants and shops on Castle Street or in the River District. Parking is by valet which is quick and convenient.
ARRIVE Hotel is at 101 S 2nd St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Trailborn Surf & Sound, formerly the Blockade Runner – Wrightsville Beach
Check out this newly renovated property formerly known as the Blockade Runner. There is something for everyone here, whether you prefer the beach, poolside seating, a garden for reading or yoga, learning how to paddle board in the sound, or taking a sunset cruise. It’s truly a lovely experience at this classic landmark and is the perfect place for a getaway. If you are looking for availability this summer, check out their weekday packages as it is a little less crowded and the rates are more flexible.
Trailborn Surf & Sound is at 275 Waynick Blvd, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480.
Captain & Ginger Air BnB – Carolina Beach
This Air BnB is an absolute delight! It is spacious with three bedrooms, one with 2 bunk beds, one with 2 queen beds, and one with a king-size bed. It has an abundance of outdoor porches, both on the front, double porches on the back, and ocean views from the rooftop deck and the primary bedroom has a large soaking tub. Be sure to check this out for a family vacation spot! It literally has everything you will need in a place! The hosts are quick, responsive, and super helpful with great local recommendations.
Front Street Inn – Wilmington
Looking for a historic inn? Check out the newly renovated Front Street Inn, a fully automated boutique hotel – featuring a coffee bar in the mornings and a cocktail bar in the evening that features bespoke cocktails. It is located in a great spot right near the River District making it perfect for strolling downtown.
Front Street Inn is at 215 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Hotel Ballast – Wilmington
Hotel Ballast is a historic building that has been beautifully restored. There are nods to Wilmington’s history as a shipping and shipbuilding community, one that was incredibly influential to North Carolina’s economy. The view of the battleship and boats coming in is such a nice experience as well. Hotel Ballast is on the Historic Hotels of America list, and there is clear intentionality in the preservation of the charm of the building to welcome guests.
Hotel Ballast offers standard rooms and spacious suites with beautiful driftwood-style plank floors, marble details in the bathroom, and crisp, white bedding. David and I stayed in a king room with a river view, and it was spectacular. We got a great night’s sleep thanks to the comfortable bedding and the rooms were large with lots of natural lighting. Perks to staying at the Hotel Ballast are the in-room coffee maker, fast WiFi, and excellent lighting in the bathroom.
Hotel Ballast is at 301 N Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
What are your favorite things to do in Wilmington, North Carolina?
Thank you to Wilmington & Beaches CVB for partnering with I’m Fixin’ To and organizing the itinerary and experiences. As always, all opinions are my own.
Use this interactive map to help plan your trip to Wilmington!
