Also known as a gateway to Cape Fear Coast beaches, Wilmington is an attractive and vibrant coastal city full of endless possibilities. Sitting in the southeastern part of North Carolina, United States, it showcases beautiful attractions such as gorgeous sandy beaches, an eye-popping boardwalk, lovely restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, and cozy galleries and shops. This city is definitely one of the major tourist hubs on the east coast. This is a romantic city that oozes priceless history, beautiful cultures, and above all, a welcoming community. Before you embark on your romantic getaway, first check out the budget hotels and Vrbo rentals in the city. For a memorable experience, check out these romantic things to do in Wilmington, NC, below.
1. Visit the stunning Bellamy Mansion Museum
If you and your partner love historic sites and want to see beautiful Antebellum architecture, Bellamy Mansion Museum is a must-visit in Wilmington. Audio tours are available throughout the day, so you’ll be able to explore the grounds of the mansion. Enjoy a stroll through the garden on a day when the weather’s nice and just take it slow with your special someone.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
Address: 503 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Bellamy Mansion Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 14 USD
2. Be inspired at Cameron Art Museum
A great place to visit for art lovers in Wilmington is Cameron Art Museum on South 17th Street. Formerly named St. John’s Museum of Art, the museum features several high-quality exhibitions with artworks of modern and historical importance. The permanent displays are comprised of local and international artists that hail from different disciplines. Wilmington is home to many up-and-coming artists, so if you’re embarking on an art trip in the city with your special someone, add this attraction to your itinerary.
Cameron Art Museum
Address: 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States
Website: Cameron Art Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm; Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
3. Sip on prime wine at Noni Bacca Winery
One of the best date night activities is wine tasting, and for good reason, too! Wine has been a symbol of intimacy and luxury, and it tastes absolutely amazing. When you find yourselves on a romantic getaway in the beautiful seaside city of Wilmington, make sure to stop by Noni Bacca Winery. It’s a whole new level of romance compared to the usual dinner dates in fine-dining restaurants. Having produced over 60 varieties of wine and won international medals, you know you’re not going to be disappointed when you try the fine products at this winery.
Noni Bacca Winery
Address: 420 Eastwood Rd #108, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: Noni Bacca Winery
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
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4. Go for a romantic stroll along Wilmington Riverwalk
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the riverfront as you enjoy a romantic walk with your better half on one of Wilmington’s main tourist attractions – Wilmington Riverwalk. Constructed on the banks of Cape Fear River, this is a 1.75-mile (2.82-kilometer) boardwalk that is always buzzing with activity. It is lined with great food joints and shops. Grab a cup of coffee, relax and enjoy the sight of people jogging in the morning. In the evening, the place fills up with couples who come to enjoy the magical views of the golden sunset. Public docking is available along the Riverwalk. This classic date idea in Wilmington, NC is one you’ll remember for a long time.
Wilmington Riverwalk
Address: Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
5. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Elijah's
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Are you a lover of everything seafood? We trust that your next dining destination should at Elijah’s, an elegant American restaurant situated along Ann Street in Wilmington. It comes with a wonderful ambiance, ample space, and eye-catching maritime décor making it even more appealing to the eye. If you don’t want to dine indoors, you can always enjoy your delicious meals and drinks at the waterfront deck while taking in the beautiful views. The menu comprises colorful options such as Oysters Elijah’s, buffalo shrimp, crabcake, fish and chips, and many more. They also have an extensive wine list, so order a bottle of their finest to make your night out with your sweetheart extra special.
Elijah's
Address: 2 Ann St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Elijah’s
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm
6. Enjoy a romantic walk at Airlie Gardens
Sitting on a 67-acre (27.11 hectares) piece of land along Airlie Road is a romantic botanical garden and one of the precious gems of Wilmington – Airlie Gardens. Nestled in a lush, green oak jungle, this place comes with special tranquility that makes it so attractive to lovers. With a beautiful network of wonderfully manicured walking paths, you get to explore the charming gardens as you leisurely enjoy a romantic walk. What you won’t fail to notice are the mighty live oaks, beautiful birds perched on trees and different colorful wildlife. You can also make reservations at this romantic place in Wilmington, NC if you’ve got an event to plan.
Airlie Gardens
Address: 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: Airlie Gardens
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
7. Book a horse-drawn tour of downtown Wilmington with Springbrook Farms Carriage
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Relax! Enjoy a slow paced, relaxing tour.
Posted by Springbrook Farms Carriage Tours on Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Are you planning to spend the day touring the downtown area of Wilmington? There’s no better way to explore this awe-inspiring city than on a carriage ride by horse. If you are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon, it would be such a romantic gesture touring the city together on a white carriage. How can you say you were in Wilmington if you didn’t enjoy such a signature horseback ride in the city? Book with Springbrook Farms Carriage, and with the help of a well-informed guide, you’ll find out about popular joints around the city. This way you get to know the city better without frying under the scorching sun.
Springbrook Farms Carriage
Address: 16 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Springbrook Farms Carriage
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
8. Swing by The Arboretum
Is it the weekend and you’re bored with nothing to do to make your day lively? Well, surprise your loved one with a trip to the Arboretum, a romantic community garden lying on a 7-acre (2.83-hectare) piece of land along Oleander Drive in Wilmington. This free-of-charge arboretum is well-maintained and gives a brief overview of the amazing waterfront beauty. Get a few tips from the friendly staff on the best flowers and trees to plant around your house.
The Arboretum
Address: 6206 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States
Website: The Arboretum
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
9. Cherish a romantic dinner cruise on Cape Fear River
For people looking for date night ideas, nothing beats enjoying a romantic dinner with your loved one on a cruise boat. And such is the magical experience you’ll enjoy when you visit this waterfront city. After spending your day touring its vibrant streets on foot, treat yourself to a blissful moment and spend your evening traversing the tranquil waters of Cape Fear River while enjoying a candle-lit dinner. Order whatever delicacies you’d like to enjoy coupled with your favorite wine from any of the waterfront restaurants. A dinner cruise surely is one of the best things to do in Wilmington, NC for couples.
Cape Fear Riverboats
Address: 101 S Water St #1, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Cape Fear Riverboats
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
10. Drink excellent craft beer at Front Street Brewery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Tucked away in a lovely neighborhood along Front Street in Wilmington is a charming microbrewery that is renowned for serving the best craft beer in the area – Front Street Brewery. It offers a wide range of exciting dining options and offers informative tours of the facility. Bring your loved one here for a casual weekend date and enjoy a wonderful bonding time as you sample some mouthwatering selections. From appetizers like pub fries and pretzels to entrees like savory sandwiches and burgers, you will be spoiled for choice. There’s also a wide selection of locally crafted beers to choose from, including tap beer.
Front Street Brewery
Address: 9 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States
Website: Front Street Brewery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm (closed on Mon)
11. Arrange a romantic picnic at Halyburton Park
Nestled in a picturesque spot on 17th Street in Wilmington is a nice park with attractions waiting to be uncovered by you – Halyburton Park. This is one of the most popular gardens due to its facilities and very helpful staff. The park has beautiful picnic spots where you can sit with your sweetheart and enjoy whatever food or snacks you brought along. If you and your partner are hiking and biking enthusiasts, you can utilize the thrilling trails around the park. You can even join either nature programs or fitness classes if you like.
Halyburton Park
Address: 4099 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States
Website: Halyburton Park
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
12. Sign up for a sunset kayak tour at Masonboro Island Reserve
Love water sports? Visit Masonboro Island Reserve, a gorgeous island waiting to mesmerize you with its irresistible charm. Admire the jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastal line with its romantic attractions. From pristine sandy beaches to beautiful flora and fauna, there is a plethora of coastal magic that you can only understand once you’re there. Enjoy an unforgettable experience with your partner as you wait for the golden sunset from the water.
Masonboro Island Reserve
Address: Wilmington, NC 28409, United States
Website: Masonboro Island State Natural Area
Plan a romantic vacation in Wilmington for your loved one
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet, laid-back time on your romantic vacation or you’re looking for fun activities to trigger your adrenaline rush, this city on the east coast has got it all. From the breathtaking sights at Wilmington Riverwalk to wonderful cruises, you and your sweetheart will definitely enjoy a memorable vacation. Be sure to secure your accommodations in one of the bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals in Wilmington.
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