What is there to do when visiting Wilmington, NC?

Wilmington, NC is a city that has it all! With its vibrant history, fine dining, and short drive to the beach, you’ll want to keep coming back. If you’re visiting the area, read up on some of our tips below to make the most out of your stay!

What is there to do when visiting Wilmington, NC?

So, what is there to do when visiting WIlmington, NC? Wilmington, NC is the perfect destination for history buffs, outdoor lovers, and wellness gurus alike! There are no shortage of activities  with everything from a walk at the New Hanover County Arboretum, a hike at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, or a visit to the Wilmington Railroad Museum at your fingertips. 

What is Wilmington, NC known for?

Wilmington, NC is known for its World War II history. Named a “World War II Heritage City” in 2020, there are many sites open to visitors in the area.

Start your history tour at the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, a refurbished WWII Battleship, and end at the Fort Fisher State Historic Site and Museum where WWII soldiers were trained. 

While walking around town you may also recognize filming locations from some of your favorite shows like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill. Self-guided walking tours are available for both shows!

Does Wilmington, NC have a beach?

Wilmington, NC itself is not located along a beach, but Wrightsville Beach, NC is just under a 20-minute drive from downtown and has been named one of the best surf towns in America. 

If you don’t plan to make the drive to the beach you can still get some water views along the Riverwalk, a mile long boardwalk through downtown Wilmington. 

What events are hosted in Wilmington, NC each year?

Wilmington, NC has a packed events calendar all year long! The Azalea Festival is the town’s premier event, with a week-long celebration each Spring that combines entertainment, galas, and the Southern charm the area is known for. 

Riverfest is a two-day event hosted every October in downtown Wilmington and is a cultural street festival that showcases all the area has to offer. 

Is Wilmington, NC a good place to live?

Wilmington, NC is a great place to live if raising a family. With a highly-rated public school system, parks, and suburban feel, many families settle down in the area. Like most cities, some parts of town are safer than others so if you’re planning to move to the area it is best to consult with your real estate agent on which neighborhoods are best suited for you.

What airports are close to Wilmington, NC?

The best way to travel to Wilmington by plane is directly into Wilmington International Airport which is just 15 minutes from downtown. 

• Wilmington International Airport ILM (15 minutes from downtown)

Driving Directions to Wilmington, NC:

• From Raleigh, NC (2 hours)
  • Take I-40 E toward Wilmington for 120 miles
  • Continue onto US-117 S for 4.5 miles

• From Charlotte, NC (3.5 hours)

• Follow E Independence Expy. and US-74 BYP to US-74 E for 31 miles
• Merge onto US-74 E for 37 miles
• Continue on US-74 E for 53 miles toward Lumberton
• Continue on US-74 E for 73 miles
• Keep left to continue on US-17 N for 3 miles

• From Charleston, SC (3.5 hours)
  • Take US-17N for 79 miles
  • Turn left onto SC-707 N for 0.8 miles, turn right onto Mcdowell Shortcut Rd. for 3.5 miles
  • Turn right onto SC-707 N for 2 miles
  • Continue onto SC-31 N for 27.5 miles
  • Use the left 2 lanes to merge onto SC-9 for 2 miles
  • Turn right onto State Hwy 57 N for 4.5 miles
  • Continue onto Hickman Rd. NW for 3.6 miles
  • Turn left onto US-17 N for 46 miles
  • Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto Oleander Dr. for 2.5 miles

Where to Stay in Wilmington, NC?

Wilmington, NC offers a many vacation rental options, all with their unique style. 

• Intimate “Treehouse”
  • One bedroom, one bath home that sleeps 3
  • Clean, modern design immersed in nature
  • Private “island” in the backyard with a charcoal grill and fire pit

• Mid-Century Boho Oasis 
  • Three bedroom, one bath home that sleeps 6
  • Centrally located between downtown Wilmington and the beach
  • Zen outdoor space with a deck, swing, and hammock 

• Downtown Digs
  • Three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath home that sleeps 10
  • Well equipped kitchen 
  • Two-floor home with room to spread out

With its history, bustling restaurant scene, and variety of outdoor activities it is hard to pass up the opportunity to visit Wilmington, NC. If you or a friend are planning on visiting the area, be sure to share this article with everyone in your group to maximize your stay!