Find your perfect Wilmington
Wilmington is a lively coastal city in southeastern North Carolina, known for its historic riverfront, vibrant arts scene, and close proximity to popular beaches.
Set along the Cape Fear River, Wilmington features a charming downtown with brick-lined streets, colorful shops, and waterfront restaurants. The city's Riverwalk is a favorite for strolls and sunset views, while nearby attractions include the Battleship North Carolina, the Bellamy Mansion Museum, and a thriving local film and theater community. Just a short drive away are the sandy shores of Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach - making Wilmington a perfect blend of city energy and coastal relaxation.
Wilmington offers a variety of lodging options, including downtown hotels, historic inns, and vacation rentals near the beach. Whether you're exploring museums, catching a live show, or heading out for a day on the water, Wilmington is a great home base for both cultural experiences and beach adventures. With its warm climate, welcoming atmosphere, and rich mix of history and recreation, Wilmington is a coastal destination full of charm and variety.
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a vibrant port city with deep historical roots, a thriving cultural scene, and easy access to beautiful beaches. Located along the Cape Fear River, just a few miles inland from the Atlantic coast, Wilmington blends Southern charm with coastal energy. For first-time visitors, it offers a unique mix of history, outdoor adventure, modern amenities, and a laid-back lifestyle.
Accommodations in Wilmington are diverse and range from upscale riverfront hotels and boutique inns to cozy bed-and-breakfasts and spacious vacation rentals. Many visitors choose to stay in or near the city's historic downtown district, where lodging often comes with scenic views, walkable access to restaurants and shops, and charming, well-preserved architecture. Outside the downtown core, travelers can find modern hotels, family-friendly suites, and house rentals near the beach communities of Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach for a mix of city and surf.
A major draw to Wilmington is its historic downtown, one of the largest and best-preserved in the South. Centered around a scenic riverwalk that stretches along the Cape Fear River, this district is filled with brick-lined streets, 19th-century buildings, local shops, art galleries, and a wide range of dining options. River cruises and water taxis give visitors a new perspective of the city, while horse-drawn carriage rides and historic walking tours bring the past to life.
History buffs will appreciate Wilmington's many heritage sites. The city played a major role in the Civil War, World War II, and the colonial era. Visitors can explore historic homes, museums, and battlefields, as well as the USS North Carolina, a restored WWII battleship permanently docked across the river. The ship is open for tours and offers a fascinating, hands-on experience of naval history.
Wilmington's location between river and sea makes it an outdoor playground. The nearby beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach - are all within a 20- to 30-minute drive. Each offers opportunities for swimming, surfing, beachcombing, and fishing. In the city itself, parks and green spaces provide trails, gardens, and picnic areas. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are popular in both the river and the surrounding waterways.
The city also has a strong connection to the arts. Visitors can enjoy live theater, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year. Film and television production have a long history in Wilmington, earning it the nickname "Hollywood East." Many visitors enjoy spotting filming locations or taking studio tours when available.
Dining in Wilmington reflects both its Southern heritage and coastal location. Restaurants range from upscale seafood spots to casual barbecue joints and food trucks. Many focus on locally sourced ingredients, with menus that highlight fresh-caught seafood, seasonal produce, and regional flavors. Craft breweries, coffee shops, and dessert cafes round out the city's food scene and offer plenty of options for every taste.
Shopping opportunities range from locally owned boutiques and galleries in the historic district to modern shopping centers and coastal outfitters. Whether you're looking for handmade art, antiques, books, or beachwear, Wilmington's shopping districts have plenty to explore.
For families, Wilmington offers a variety of attractions, including interactive museums, aquariums, and nature centers. Riverfront parks and seasonal events like outdoor movies, festivals, and farmers markets make the city fun for visitors of all ages. Educational centers and guided tours also provide engaging experiences for kids and adults alike.
Wilmington's charm lies in its ability to offer both the energy of a growing city and the serenity of a coastal retreat. Visitors can spend the morning exploring historic sites, enjoy an afternoon at the beach, and then return downtown for a riverfront dinner and live music. Whether you're seeking culture, nature, history, or relaxation, Wilmington delivers a well-rounded experience that captures the best of North Carolina's coastal life.
With its walkable downtown, beach access, rich heritage, and welcoming community, Wilmington invites visitors to explore, unwind, and enjoy the best of city and shore. It's a destination where you can make memories, discover new perspectives, and always find something new around the corner.
September 4, 2025
(+ more dates)Rain or shine, visitors can uncover a wealth of local growers, artisans, and craftsmen at this weekly summertime market that highlights the best that Sunset Beach has to offer. Held every Thursday in the warm weather months, the Market in the Park...
September 5, 2025
Anglers can explore the exceptional fishing of the Carolina Beach inshore waters while hopefully cashing in on some attractive prizes at this annual tournament that reels in local and visiting anglers alike. The Carolina Beach Inshore Challenge is a...
September 11, 2025
(+ more dates)Rain or shine, visitors can uncover a wealth of local growers, artisans, and craftsmen at this weekly summertime market that highlights the best that Sunset Beach has to offer. Held every Thursday in the warm weather months, the Market in the Park...
September 13, 2025
Shoppers and sightseers can discover a world of goodies while taking in some of the most enticing scenery that Wilmington has to offer with a stop at the annual American Craft Walk. Held in the fall, this popular event features a wealth of local and...
September 18, 2025
(+ more dates)Rain or shine, visitors can uncover a wealth of local growers, artisans, and craftsmen at this weekly summertime market that highlights the best that Sunset Beach has to offer. Held every Thursday in the warm weather months, the Market in the Park...
September 19, 2025
Both spectators and mariners will have a ball at this colorful celebration that celebrates life on the water in Carolina Beach. The Dragon Boat Regatta & Festival is a fun-filled weekened event that includes plenty of food and entertainment, and...
Find your perfect Wilmington
There’s an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much more, veritably every visitor...
Visitors who are on the hunt for the postcard-perfect vacation rental in the heart of the Carolina Beach or Kure Beach area will find an enticing selection and plenty of friendly customer service when they rent through Victory Beach Vacations. Based...
One of the largest attractions in Wrightsville Beach – both literally and figuratively – is the town’s miles of ocean-facing shoreline. And over the decades, the local beaches are the prime reason why millions of visitors have...
Greenfield Lake Park is known as one of Wilmington’s coolest and most scenic destinations, and is a vast public park that’s located just south of the historic downtown area. Located on the western edge of Greenfield Lake, and just a...
Renowned as a small but substantial piece of Southport’s history that was almost lost in the wake of 2016’s Hurricane Matthew, the Southport City Dock reopened to grand acclaim in the 2021, and has regained its reputation as a popular...
Arlie Gardens is home to a stunning collection of natural gardens and eye-catching artworks which continually impresses visitors to the Wilmington area. Established in 1901, and originally used as a private garden for the wealthy Pembroke family...