Wilmington, being a port city, is a gateway to the fabulous beaches in the beautiful state of North Carolina. You’ll be surprised to find out that significant history has been made and restored here including warships, railroads, trains, and even the vintage architecture. Besides taking a pleasant walk by the beaches, you will find lots of interesting things to do here! Go local and find unique bargains at the Cotton Exchange. Visit the famous museums to get to know the culture and rich history of the place. Have fun with family and go to an adventure park with fun-filled activities! Here, there are activities that are fit for all ages. Find out, in this article, about the interesting things to do in Wilmington, North Carolina.
1. Explore Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
Posted by Cape Fear Museum on Friday, 31 May 2019
Learn interesting facts about the Lower Cape Fear region - one of North Carolina’s historic locations for golden tales! The museum is also the oldest in the state, having been founded in 1898. What’s awesome about this museum is that visitors are entitled to interesting finds no matter their age. For the kids, there are hands-on activities to try that will get their attention. Spend at least an hour here (or a couple of hours if there are kids) to fully appreciate the historic museum.
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
Address: 814 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Cape Fear Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 8 USD
2. Go shopping at Independence Mall
Independence Mall has a spacious outdoor parking area, so bringing a car won’t be a problem. Enter the only enclosed shopping mall in Wilmington, North Carolina and spend hours shopping! Dine at restaurants or at the food court. Check out the various shops from apparel to equipment. Take a couple of hours merely shopping or walking around for great finds. For sure, you will find what you want here.
Independence Mall
Address: 3500 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: Independence Mall
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 6pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm
3. Explore the USS North Carolina BB-55 - a museum in a battleship
Spring on the Cape Fear!
Posted by USS NORTH CAROLINA Battleship on Friday, 20 April 2018
Being a state that contributed to the glory and warfare in building the United States, North Carolina preserved the BB-55 battleship in a creative way - they turned it into a museum in itself! Built to aid the United States Navy, the battleship stood as a reminder of the hardships faced in history. Learn more about the stories not only about the journey of the ship but also how North Carolina thrived through the years in spite of the catastrophic events back then. There is more to this state than meets the eye!
USS North Carolina BB-55
Address: 1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: USS North Carolina BB-55
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 14 USD
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4. Check out local art in Cameron Art Museum
Now, explore the artistic side of North Carolina and witness the exhilarating works of local artists. Besides only viewing the masterpieces, you may also attend the museum school or attend programs & events hosted at the museum. Take note that the place is conveniently located in downtown. Get interactive with the digital arts presented here and be informed of the stories behind certain notable artworks attributed to folktales and the like, or get to know the artists themselves! Make the most out of your time at the well-known museum in North Carolina.
Cameron Art Museum
Address: 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States
Website: Cameron Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD
5. Take a stroll in Airlie Gardens
Be surrounded by lush, bountiful flora at the beautiful Airlie Gardens. Built to have that naturalistic, southern vibe, expect this garden to feature lots of varieties including magnolias, azaleas, camellias, and so much more. From almost any angle, the garden looks lovely! Feel tranquility as you observe the reflection of the vibrant flowers at the lake. Feel at ease like the swans and go to picturesque structures around the gardens. Visitors and locals alike adore this place, so we are sure you will, too.
Airlie Gardens
Address: 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: Airlie Gardens
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 9 USD
6. Relax on Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is not just any other ordinary beach; it features the world-famous flytraps! Home to the Flytrap Trail (where you will see the carnivorous plants), the beach holds much entertainment. There is a boardwalk featuring lots of shops, restaurants, and even amusement rides! Of course, do not forget to take a leisurely stroll on the sandy beach and take a dip in the water. Parks available for camping are nearby as well, so better take some camping gear if you plan on staying here longer.
Carolina Beach
Address: Town of Carolina Beach 1121 N. Lake Park Blvd. Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Website: Carolina Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 0 USD
7. Learn about movie making at EUE Screen Gems Studio
Posted by Mark Anthony on Friday, 9 August 2019
If you think that great movies are only performed by the actors and actresses, then you only know the tip of the iceberg. Think of the production team consisting of hundreds of people and the props and spaces for sets! A visit to the EUE Screen Gems Studio will get you thinking about that! Delve into the further works behind the camera and what it feels like to be on a set. This particular studio is in collaboration with many studios and producers. Feel like a star in the making by visiting this studio.
EUE Screen Gems Studio
Address: 1223 N 23rd St, Wilmington, NC 28405, United States
Website: EUE Screen Gems Studio
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 12 USD
8. Wander around New Hanover Arboretum
This Japanese garden is adored and considered to be a hit. Why? Here lies various plants, refreshing sceneries, and simple but fun add-ons such as the mini playground, tube drum, and picnic area! The Japanese garden is a perfect venue for a family getaway. Besides the glorious natural views, staying here is educational. Get the kids active by playing at the play area or simply admiring the variety of flora in the park. Stroll around and cross the Japanese-style bridge over the quiet waters and spend at least an hour wandering around.
New Hanover County Extension Service Arboretum
Address: 6206 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: New Hanover County Extension Service Arboretum
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Admire the antebellum architecture of Bellamy Mansion Museum
Feel luxurious at the grand Bellamy Mansion Museum here at Market St. North Carolina. Step into this historic site built in the 1800s. Notice the impressive preservation done to the place, keeping its neoclassical architecture aesthetic intact. The place is enormous so there is a lot to go around. Don’t forget to take time examining the place filled with interesting antiques relating to the rich history of North Carolina and the way of living, especially back then. Admire the finest display of the historic antebellum architecture showcased in this fabulous mansion.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
Address: 503 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Bellamy Mansion Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm
Price: 12 USD
10. Enjoy a fun day at Kure Beach
This is a rather small beach in the metropolitan of Wilmington, but it surely offers amazing views and attractions nearby. From here, you can check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, witness the natural wonder of Coquina Outcrop, or step on the oldest pier on the Atlantic Coast at Kure Beach! Go fishing or get to know the events & festivals hosted at this beach for an unforgettable experience
Kure Beach
Address: Kure Beach, North Carolina, United States
Website: Kure Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
11. Play disc golf at Castle Hayne Park
Posted by Castle Hayne Disc Golf Course on Friday, 13 January 2017
Here in North Carolina, you will have the chance to play a unique sport that will get you active. It is disc golf, which is a flying disc sport similar to golf due to the rules to follow. The sport is growing in popularity and if it is your first time to try it, then playing at Castle Hayne Park would be a real treat. Spacious fields and pleasant views are what you will find here. Get a breath of fresh air at the natural venue and spend hours of fun! It is a great idea to bring the family along - the sport is great for both young and old.
Castle Hayne Park
Address: 4700 Old Ave Wilmington, North Carolina 28411, U.S.A
Website: Castle Hayne Park
12. Go pub crawling in Wilmington downtown
Put on your comfortable shoes and attire and you are all set to explore the interesting pubs in Wilmington downtown. Spend the evening pub crawling, checking out the many intriguing venues and casual booze spots. Pubs like Orange Tree, Horse & Groom, ER Pub, Wild Wing and Copper Penny are some examples of great places to go to. What’s awesome about this pub crawl experience is that many pubs are nearby, adjacent to the A2 Dartford Bypass. Befriend the locals or travelers alike while having a fun time enjoying some booze and food.
Pub crawling in Wilmington downtown
Address: Wilmington Downtown, North Carolina, United States
Website: Wilmington Downtown
13. Stroll on the Riverwalk and soak in the scenic beauty
Sometimes, making memories is just as simple as taking a stroll and not doing anything grand. For that kind of atmosphere, visit the riverwalk. Here, you will feel the fresh, warm breeze from the quiet river as you walk on the pier. This is a timeless, yet fool-proof way to spend time. Besides basking in the gorgeous sceneries, you can get good food at the restaurants and enjoy drinks in the pubs and bars nearby. The best time to stroll here is in the late afternoon so you can find time to unwind at a nice place while enjoying the sunset. Afterwards, your eyes will feast on the beautiful lights at night!
Riverwalk
Address: Wilmington Downtown Riverwalk, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Riverwalk
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
14. Go jogging on the John Nesbitt Loop
Posted by The Loop at Wrightsville Beach on Saturday, 1 July 2017
When you are in North Carolina, you might hear the term “The Loop” often. It is easy to conclude that it is merely a place, but it offers something you have to see; this is a path that circles the heart of the town! Surprisingly, this seemingly simple road became a highly famous attraction. Bikers, joggers, runners, and walkers love to visit the place. This is a simple yet fantastic way to explore the humble city of Wilmington. See local establishments and observe the scenic views you will pass by.
John Nesbitt Loop
Address: 530 Causeway Dr, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, United States
Website: John Nesbitt Loop
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Check out the stunning Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Georgian architecture boomed in North Carolina and it became part of history. Designs of houses had been a symbol of social status so the Georgian style is regarded highly. A classic example is Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens. Right now, it is still well-preserved and already open to the public. This is impressive because the home was made in 1771. Symbolizing the pre-revolutionary stance of Wilmington, this home will take you back to that colonial era.
Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Address: 224 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 12 USD
16. Buy local products at Cotton Exchange
When visiting a new place, it is always a mantra to go local. Going local means you will find the unique and unusual, which are great reminders of the trip you’ve had. The Cotton Exchange in Wilmington gives just that and here, you’ll discover its rich origins. It is dated back to the Civil War and you will be pleased to find it still intact. There are three entrances with dozens of shops. You will see antiques, bohemian apparel, and many more interesting finds. Need rest from spending hours shopping? There are great restaurants in the area! Spend a lovely afternoon at the heart of Wilmington in this historic place and shop ‘til you drop.
The Cotton Exchange
Address: 321 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: The Cotton Exchange
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5:30pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm
17. Catch a movie at IMAX in Mayfaire Town Center
Afternoon date with Lauren Nicole Bishop. ??? #fatherdaughter #youandmekid
Posted by Brian Bishop on Saturday, 28 September 2019
Care to catch a movie? There is a place to go to right here at Mayfaire Town Center. Watching via IMAX offers an immersive experience starting from the feel of the cinema, the extremely comfortable chairs, to the ultra-wide screen. Viewers will feel like being in the movie itself! This IMAX theater in Mayfaire Town Center is wheelchair accessible and food is available. Many shops are very nearby in case you want to grab some food and drinks. The IMAX theater looks fabulous even from the outside. Spend the evening watching a great movie.
Regal Mayfaire & IMAX
Address: 900 Town Center Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405, United States
Website: Regal Mayfaire & IMAX
Opening hours: 12pm - 12am (daily)
Price: 15 USD
18. Bring your kids to Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Posted by Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park on Thursday, 18 January 2018
Have an extra-ordinary fun time at Wilmington by visiting Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park! Get ready for some aqua fun at this spacious and exciting water park. What’s more? Many other activities are available as well. Get an adrenaline rush at the go-kart. Test your stealth at the laser tag. There is never a dull moment at this amazing park. Free parking is available so you just need to settle on a place to stay in this huge venue.
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Address: 5320 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Opening hours: Sun: 12pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12pm; Mon - Thu: 10am - 10pm
Price: 18 USD
19. Go on a ghost walk in Old Wilmington
Join us tomorrow evening when we return to our normal tour schedule. www.hauntedwilmington.com
Posted by Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington on Friday, 6 September 2019
Are you ready to fill your night with terror? Although Wilmington is jolly and lively during the day, you are going to witness the other side of the Old Wilmington. Are you brave enough to face this realm? Deemed as a noteworthy tour and featured in famous TV shows, the Haunted Wilmington ghost walk tour brings you to discover the dark stories and the eerie encounters that occurred in the very places you’ll be in: haunted houses and burial grounds. Try not to be fazed by the creepy tales during this tour.
Ghost walk of Old Wilmington
Address: 8 Market St Suite B, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Ghost walk of Old Wilmington
Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 8pm; Mon - Sat: 10am - 10pm
Price: 13 USD
20. Enjoy the sunset from Carolina Beach State Park
Ending a day in an easy-going way would perhaps be the perfect activity. Carolina Beach State Park is beautiful because of how nature is maintained. Instead of seeing many concrete paths, you will find grassy plains and sandy shores. There are more trees than man-made structures here. It is such a drastic contrast to the busy world filled with buildings. You will feel the refreshing breeze and the clean air.
Carolina Beach State Park
Address: 1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, United States
Website: Carolina Beach State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
21. Pick Strawberries at Lewis Nursery & Farms
Strawberry U-pick has started!! $2.75 a pound.
Posted by Lewis Farms on Wednesday, 27 March 2019
Spend the day picking delicious strawberries at Lewis Nursery & Farms. This is a simple yet wholesome way to enjoy family bonding in such a pleasant and natural venue. You won’t pick just one kind of berry though - there are blueberries, blackberries and many more! Visitors here will see the many flowers displayed in the area as well. Upon arriving here on a sunny day, you will surely want to try their homemade blueberry ice cream! Note that the opening hours are dependent on the season, so double-check the desired dates if they match. If not, you may still enjoy the lovely flowers and the delicious ice cream.
Lewis Nursery & Farms
Address: 6517 Gordon Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411, United States
Website: Lewis Nursery & Farms
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 6pm; Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm
Price: 3 - 4 USD
22. Have fun with friends at DefyGravity Wilmington Trampoline Park
Need somewhere to let the kids explore and be social? There’s no time for lazy summer days when your kids join Camp...
Posted by DefyGravity Wilmington on Friday, 26 April 2019
One of the great things about Wilmington is that you will never run out of things to do, plus heart-pumping activities are available for both kids and adults! This trampoline park is one of them. With lots of fun activities to try, you won’t get bored. Dreaming of becoming America’s next Ultimate Ninja Warrior? Sign up for the Ninja Course! You can also go for Open Jump, Trampoline DodgeBall, and much more. If you bring your family here, opt for the Family Night package.
DefyGravity Wilmington Trampoline Park
Address: 6431 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28405, United States
Website: DefyGravity Wilmington Trampoline Park
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 9am - 11pm; Mon - Thu: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 7pm
Price: 9 - 18 USD
23. Visit Wilmington Railroad Museum
Another interesting site in Wilmington is the Railroad Museum of NC. Featuring railroad artifacts that date back to the 1840s, the museum emphasizes the significance of railroads in both the local and national scale. What’s unique here is that all items showcased are authentic, so every display you see is a piece of history. Note that the place is usually busy, but don’t you worry - there’s a lot of space to go around! These trains deserve much appreciation as they have been properly maintained throughout the years.
Wilmington Railroad Museum
Address: 505 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Wilmington Railroad Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 9.5 USD
24. Check out the historic items at Latimer House
North Carolina surely has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture. Latimer House turns your attention to the Victorian Era, focusing on the life of the Latimer generations. What makes this family noteworthy? They are some of the faces that contributed to North Carolina as it is now, through naval stores. Take a tour to find intriguing pieces like portraits, paintings, antiques, and so much more. With 14 spacious rooms, you will have to take your time. Also, read about history, since many events occurred in this place. Go back in time and see North Carolina in a renewed way by reliving the remarkable history involving the prestigious Latimer House.
Latimer House
Address: 126 S 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 12 USD
25. Take a nature walk in Halyburton Park
For a place that is open yet shaded with lots of trees, this park is easily a flourishing green space. Go for a nature walk on the paved trails covered by trees, and inhale the fresh air. Halyburton Park features gorgeous picnic areas surrounded by lots of trees. A playground for kids is also available. Halls for events and a gorgeous planetarium are here as well. Take pictures and feel the wonder of nature at such a convenient place. For sure, you will enjoy the time by merely staying here for a while.
Halyburton Park
Address: 4099 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
26. Spot wild animals at Tregembo Animal Park
The park may be small, but it is definitely well maintained and the exhibits are well presented. Stop by to see a variety of animals that are cared for! Get interactive with the monkeys, giraffes, and beautiful birds. Because of the entrance fees, it is a good idea to bring the family here for a wholesome quality time. The staff is noted to be friendly and accommodating, so do not hesitate to approach them if you have queries or concerns. There is so much to explore in this small zoo, so spend a couple of hours here.
Tregembo Animal Park
Address: 5811 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States
Website: Tregembo Animal Park
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Fri)
Price: 12 USD
27. Take a ride on the Wilmington Trolley (from USD 41.0)
Explore more of Wilmington in a unique way - via trolley! This is not just any other trolley; it is called a pub trolley because the seats are made to face each other, bordered by a long table. This makes the trolley a great means of transport, promoting engaging conversations. The tour guide/driver here is noted to be awesome and accommodating, giving the travelers a fun and informative experience. Drive by the interesting parts of Wilmington, mostly local establishments. Don’t forget to bring some drinks and a fun playlist to go along this one-of-a-kind tour.
Trolley Pub Public Tour
Duration: 2 hours
28. Take part in the Wilmington Puzzling Adventure (from USD 30.0)
Discover more of Wilmington in a unique and fun way through puzzles! Test your wit and problem-solving skills as you get to know more about what Wilmington offers you. Great for a group up to 12 people, the tour is a smartphone-based adventure which, upon unlocking a puzzle, leads you to the next destination. Feeling tired or found anything interesting? Not a problem! The group has the option to take a break at any time. Anyway, the puzzle will lead you to awesome places around this city. Take this scavenger hunt as an exciting challenge! What a way to explore!
Wilmington Puzzling Adventure
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
29. Enjoy a brewery tour (from USD 51.0)
Because there are so many breweries in Wilmington, NC, you will have a tough time knowing where to go. This brewery tour will point to you which ones are worth the visit. Giving you valuable information relating to wine-tasting, the craft beer scene in North Carolina, and the way it is brewed, the tour package has all you need. With three handcraft breweries to visit, thoughtfully selected by your guide, you are up for a quality experience. Tickle your tastebuds with interesting craft beer that is locally made.
Wilmington's NC Coastal Craft Brewery Tour
A great city with interesting sites
Did you know that Wilmington is categorized as one of the best places to stay in North Carolina? Even with minimal transportation, because of how walkable it is, visitors and locals alike can walk around the city especially from downtown. These interesting activities will make Wilmington a place worth remembering. Explore the place like a local and absorb the culture and history of this remarkable city.
History
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