Wilmington, North Carolina, has the perfect mixture of the historic and modern. The Victorian structures and historic buildings of other eras complement the contemporary structures made to provide you with entertainment. There is also an event pier in Port City Marina, so you will have lots of opportunities to make the most of your visit. While strolling through this picturesque city, you are sure to be charmed by the moss-draped live oaks, horse-drawn carriages, and old brick-lined streets. You may also wander down the picturesque Riverwalk, which hosts several stores, cafés, and nightlife options. If you’d rather indulge in some fun indoors, scroll down for the list of the top things to do indoors in Wilmington, North Carolina.
1. Marvel at the beautiful artworks in Cameron Art Museum
Visitors of all ages are welcome to observe Cameron Art Museum’s high-quality exhibitions and flawless collection of artworks. It serves as a cultural gathering space, educating both visitors and residents on the value of the continuous pursuit of knowledge in the arts. You can select from a range of tours available here.
You may schedule a group tour with a minimum of five people, or you can choose guided tours with hands-on activities. Students from pre-K through college are also welcome to partake in specially curated tours. You can dine at the full-service restaurant before or after your tour. The museum will be closed on Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Cameron Art Museum
Address: 3201 South 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28412
Website: Cameron Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Wed, Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 14 USD
2. Join an interactive workshop in Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science displays a collection of over 57,000 preserved relics related to Lower Cape Fear’s history, culture, and scientific contributions. The establishment features artifacts from the Civil War as well as a discovery gallery for children.
The objects are also interpreted and shared with the public through educational programs. You may also participate in the workshops available here.
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
Address: 814 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Website: Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm
Price: 8 USD
3. Watch your favorite films at The Pointe 14 Cinemas
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Pointe 14 - Stone Theatres on Friday, December 7, 2018
This state-of-the-art movie theater in Barclay Commons presents contemporary films as well as 3D films in a modern setting. The Pointe 14 Cinemas is one of the finest sites you can visit here since it has been meticulously designed to give you unparalleled amusement whether you’re watching alone or with a companion. There’s a concession stand on-site, which even offers beer and wine, where you can get your refreshments.
Watching your favorite films with DOLBY ATMOS and 4K laser projection will improve your experience. The leather seats are so comfortable and luxurious that you won’t believe this theater has such low prices! There are also summer kids’ shows available here. You can check directly with the booking section for accurate show timings.
Pointe 14 Cinema
Address: 2223 Blockbuster Road, Wilmington, North Carolina 28412
Website: Pointe 14 Cinema
Price: Starts from 8 USD
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4. Experience the spooky attractions at Museum of the Bizarre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Come do some magic an take a pic
Posted by Museum of the Bizarre on Monday, September 28, 2020
Museum of the Bizarre stands true to its name with unique exhibitions, spooky events, and thrilling interactive exhibits that you won’t find anywhere else! This museum will transport you to a strange realm that you’ve only seen in films. You may snap photos of an Ouija board, odd collections of creepy skulls, or the unicorn’s horn, or you can marvel at set pieces of popular horror films.
If you’re still seeking weird yet interesting activities here, you could get lost in the music and lights of the laser vault and mirror maze. There is also a science museum on-site that is open to all ages but is specially curated for children.
Museum of the Bizarre
Address: 201 South Water Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Website: Museum of the Bizarre
Opening hours: Summer: 11am - 8pm (daily); Winter: 11am - 6pm
Price: 3 USD
5. Take a trip down history at Wilmington Railroad Museum
When you visit the Wilmington Railroad Museum, you and your children are sure to be transported back in time! This museum has an excellent array of exhibitions and activities relating to the historic Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. You may immerse yourself in the scale models and dynamic layouts, and you can even utilize the railway accessories and foot pedals.
You can tour the entire museum in about an hour and you may learn about the history of railroads in the Wilmington region as well as the individuals who worked on them. Don’t miss out on taking photographs with the life-size caboose and 100-year-old steam locomotive while you’re here. The establishment is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, and the Fourth of July.
Wilmington Railroad Museum
Address: 505 Nutt Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Website: Wilmington Railroad Museum
Opening hours: Summer: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Winter: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 10 USD
6. Indulge in a shopping spree at Independence Mall
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Independence Mall will be your go-to shopping center to unwind and check out the latest products. This mall is a premier attraction in the region as it houses a diverse number of stores dedicated to fashion, jewelry, perfume, electronics, and sports goods. This place can also be your one-stop shop if you’re seeking beauty services or phone repairs.
After a long day of strolling, indulge in the plenty of dining options available here, ranging from snack parlors to casual restaurants. Aside from these features, the mall offers convenient parking for those arriving by car.
Independence Mall
Address: 3500 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
Website: Independence Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 7pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
7. Enjoy the activities and games at DEFY Wilmington
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Have you seen our foam pits?!?!?! Get your tickets at www.defygravity.us/wilmington
Posted by DEFY on Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Defy gravity and enter a world of infinite fun at this daring trampoline park. DEFY Wilmington is an entertainment park offering a range of activities and games. Put on your grip socks and show off your backflips and diving skills in the foam pit. Jumping on the high-end air track and wall tramp will undoubtedly be an incredible experience. For an exciting aerial adventure, you may also try the zipline and trapeze facilities.
The property combines sports with entertainment, so whether you’re a professional gymnast or not, this venue is a must-see spot for your weekend getaway. Birthday parties are also welcome here, so check out their official website for more information!
DEFY Wilmington
Address: 6431 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405
Website: DEFY Wilmington
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri: 10am - 10pm; Sat: 9am - 10pm
Price: 20.99 USD
8. Test your skills at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park is committed to providing all families with an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. This amusement park offers a wide selection of activities, including a waterpark, but if you want to stay indoors, there is plenty of stuff to do as well. Test your strength on the indoor climbing wall, wander the laser tag arena, or play your favorite arcade games.
There is also a kid’s jungle on-site, so the young ones may have even more fun! While the location promises endless enjoyment, it also follows a set of rules and guidelines to assure your safety at all times. Note that the waterpark is only open on specific days, and the opening hours change with the season as well, so it would be best to check with the property to avoid any confusion.
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Address: 5320 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, North Carolina 28403
Website: Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Opening hours: Summer: Sun - Thu: 10am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12am
9. Learn about the region's history at Bellamy Mansion Museum
A visit to the Bellamy Mansion Museum is an excellent way to refresh your knowledge of North Carolina’s architectural history and restoration processes. Enslaved skilled laborers and local free Black artisans built this antebellum-style mansion between 1859 and 1861.
The restored two-story brick slave quarters with sleeping rooms, a laundry area, and privies are also open for touring as well. Aside from its historic significance, such buildings are rare in the region, therefore you should absolutely go explore the museum when in the city. When you visit, don’t forget to check out the four towering southern magnolia trees in the garden.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
Address: 503 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Website: Bellamy Mansion Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
10. Watch your favorite artists perform at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, one of the country’s oldest theaters, has been displaying amazing touring talents since 1858. It presents creative presentations of outstanding performances in films, local theater shows, concerts, and other entertainment shows to reflect the region’s range of talent and interests. You may come here to see local performers or your favorite international artists. The venue will open an hour before the performance on those specific days.
The performance center is committed to educating and entertaining its audience via the arts. It also acts as a reminder to future generations of Wilmington’s cultural history.
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Address: 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
Website: Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 2pm - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Plenty to do indoors in Wilmington
This coastal destination can be your go-to spot for a relaxing weekend break or to just bond with family and friends. Indoor attractions in Wilmington cater to a wide range of preferences. So be sure to stop by the sites we mentioned above to guarantee a fantastic holiday in Wilmington.
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