2025 Shopping Guide

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, the Cameron Art Museum has grown over the past five decades into one of coastal North Carolina's premier collections of regional, national and international art, filling virtually every corner of its gallery space at its 17th Street and Independence Blvd. intersection location. The modern building with its trio of glass pyramid rooftops is easy to distinguish in Downtown Wilmington, however visitors are even more impressed when they walk through the doors and get a first glimpse of the permanent and rotating collections.

Situated in the heart of the downtown area, and expanding for a full city block, the Old Wilmington City Market is a distinctive destination where history and shopping are effortlessly combined. Though it has served a number of purposes over the years, these days, the Old Wilmington City Market is known as a convenient destination for visitors who are on the hunt for some of the Port City’s more unique shops, with goodies that range from regional artworks to tasty local coffees.

E-BIKE TOURS — An Experience For All Levels! Our goal is to make you feel like a local as you explore all Wilmington has to offer. If you’re looking to check out some of the best breweries in town, visit unique neighborhoods, and take in the historic and significant sites that Wilmington is known for, then we have a tour for you.  Learn more and to book your spot on a tour today! 

8 Fine Art Gallery is a chic little gallery that features a wealth of artworks from regional and local artists which pays homage to the coastal environment, or to its own little unique niche in the art world. The gallery is located just outside of the heart of historic Downtown Southport on Long Beach Road, and is located next to a collection of acclaimed restaurants and shops, and is surrounded by the historic downtown area. As a result, it’s a popular spot for visitors who are simply perusing the array of shops in the region, or who are taking advantage of Southport’s reputation as a prime destination for fresh artworks and vintage coastal décor.

A Taste of Italy has New York roots and a prime location in the heart of Wilmington along College Road – a combination that has helped solidify this market’s reputation as one of the best delis in the Port City. Opened in 1994 by a pair of brothers from NYC, patrons will find a world of inspired flavors that bring the taste of traditional New York Italian delicatessens to the Cape Fear region.

Art lovers who want to truly dive into the local and regional Cape Fear arts scene will want to make a stop at the ACES Gallery. Orchestrated and run by the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County, this homegrown gallery supports and showcases artists from all across the area to the delight of coastal art fans everywhere.

Annex is a hip spot for surfers and vacationers alike who are cruising to the Wrightsville Beach shoreline. Located on the edge of the causeway bridge, this destination is part sporting goods store, part clothing shop, part surf shop, and part coffee house, which allows everyone to indulge their favorite vacation pastime (shopping, watersports, or just enjoying a hot or ice cold caffeinated treat), without ever leaving this single spot.

Downtown Wilmington is known for its collection of chic antique shops, and Antiques of Old Wilmington, which has a prime locale along Front Street just a block away from the Cape Fear River, is a convenient and all-encompassing destination for vintage treasure hunters to begin their pursuit. Established in 1982, and featuring a whopping 6,000 sq. ft. of space, antique fans and looky-loos alike will find a wealth of treasures which pay homage to old southern Wilmington.

The Artshak Studio and Gallery is a cool destination for historic Southport art lovers with a unique setting that’s housed within a barn-style but still coastal building on the edges of the downtown area. Easy to walk to and explore for visitors who are taking a leisurely stroll along Howe Street, this cool and colorful gallery features a wealth of surprises in store for longtime patrons and newcomers alike, thanks to a nice mixed collection of sculpture, paintings, photography, and more.

The small and slightly inland community of Hampstead is regionally known as the “Seafood Capital of North Carolina” and this reputation is alive and well thanks to popular local seafood markets, like Atlantic Seafood. Located just a shell’s through from US Highway 17  -the main 4-lane highway that runs through the town – this market is renowned among locals for fresh catches, good prices, and solid advice on what to eat and how to cook it from the professional staff.

Wrightsville Beach has a dedicated local and visiting surfing community, and newcomers or old pros who need to upgrade their equipment and gear can make an easy stop at Aussie Island Surf Shop. Located on Lumina Avenue, just off the Channel Bridge and only a few blocks away from the beach, this central destination can supply surfers with everything they need to tackle the local waves, from spring suits to new boards.

With over 5000 sq. feet of unique retail therapy Baker Street Curiosity Shop is a must stop place to visit. A diverse group of vendors offer unusual treasures with new items daily. Antiques. Vintage. Mid century. Records. Artwork. And much more! Come take a look! Inventory changing all the time. We now have a new room in our shop; the Uranium Glass Room. It is filled with uranium and Vaseline glass that reacts with black light making it glow green! The glass is older than most of us! Come see!

Boo & Roo’s is a fun and funky little gift shop that brings a little burst of modern appeal to classic southern style. Featuring a wealth of apparel, accessories, artworks, jewelry, and everything in between, this friendly store will allow Southport visitors to dress their best and fit right into the laid-back but fashion-forward Cape Fear scene.

In Wilmington, the arts scene and the nightlife scene effortlessly combine, and this cool coupling is perfectly apparent at the invitingly chic Bottega Art & Wine. Voted "Best Art Gallery" by Encore Magazine Readers - Wilmington’s guidebook for area arts and culture - the cool downtown gallery has an eclectic crowd of art lovers, drink lovers, and everyday explorers who are in the mood to try something new.

A Magical, Mystical, Shopping Experience You and Your Child Will never Forget! 

From creamy fudge, to nautical-themed gifts, to truly unique holiday ornaments and décor, you can find everything under the sun at Callahan's of Calabash. An expansive gift store that is a landmark and popular destination in its own right, this 35,000 square foot gift shop with a wonderfully ship-shape aesthetic will thrill visitors of all ages, and offers a little something special for shoppers of all tastes.

Cape Fear Games is miles above the standard gaming store, thanks to an impressive collection of board games, cards, sports equipment, and regular special events that attract board game fans and players of all genres. Located along Oleander Drive in the heart of Wilmington, and close to a number of shopping centers, restaurants, and the University of Wilmington Campus, patrons of all ages will find a new game or hobby to explore, or can pursue their favorite card or board games with fellow fans from all across the Cape Fear region.

Cape Fear Jewelers is located in scenic downtown Southport, NC. Southport is located at the mouth of the Cape Fear River and has a rich maritime history. Cape Fear Jewelers offers original nautical designs and a variety of respected jewelry designers in gold, platinum, and sterling silver. The lore of the sea is well represented at Cape Fear Jewelers.

Beer and wine lovers will be in a casual and locally cool heaven when they pay a visit to Cape Fear Wine & Beer – a longstanding local bar and beverage shop that has been raising the bar for beer fans for nearly 15 years. Located in the heart of the downtown area, and just a block away from the waterfront, this central destination will be a haven for late-night visitors and afternoon explorers alike, with plenty of ice cold brews to shake off the local heat and enjoy a cool break with a no-frills vibe.

Wilmington visitors who want to spend a rainy afternoon taking in the newest summer blockbuster can make a date with the Carmike 16 movie theater. Offering multiple screens, which includes 3D and jumbo screens, this centrally located theater is a fine destination for family fun, a casual date-night, or just an excuse to hunker down with a warm bucket of popcorn.

Carolina ebikes offers ebike rentals and tours throughout the local Cross City trails, also downtown historic areas and Wrightsville, Carolina and Kure beaches. They carry many makes and models for sale and offer fully built custom ebikes shipped anywhere in the US. Come in anytime 10:00-6:00 for a free demo ride or just to ask questions and learn about the positive benefits and fun of electric bicycles.

Locally owned and operated since 2002, CB Surf Shop has steadily grown over the years to become one of Carolina Beach's premiere shopping destinations. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff is always happy to help, because they want everyone to enjoy the coastal lifestyle. In addition to their large selection of surfboards and equipment, CB Surf Shop is proud to offer a vast assortment of quality men's and women's apparel, sandals, sunglasses, surf accessories and much more.

Celtic Creamery offers award winning Irish ice cream along with hot made to order donuts, sensational sundaes, banana splits, Celtic blend coffee. Also visit our gift shop. We offer gift’s for all occasions. Shop for baby and children’s clothing, gifts, and books. Headed to the Beach? Shop for beach coverups, hats, towels bags and totes. How about personal gifts? We offer designer soaps, lotions, scrubs and more. Home décor, jewelry, accessors and more.

No artful exploration of Wilmington is complete without a visit to the acclaimed Charles Jones African Art. This local institution has been in business for more than 25 years, and features an extensive collection of traditional African works in all mediums, enchanting art aficionados and everyday shoppers or explorers alike.

Chef Joy's Grocerant is the perfect blend of value added groceries and amazing grab and go meals. Stop in today for healthy local options.

Eagles Beachwear has been the premier beach store serving the Grand Strand for over 30 years and has more than 20 locations across the Myrtle Beach area. Since 1981, Eagles stores have been recognized for great selection, high quality and affordable prices.

Franklin Square Gallery perfectly combines Southport’s inherent love of art, culture, and history, thanks to both a unique setting and a collection of acclaimed regional and local artists that are clearly inspired by the wild Cape Fear environment. Located along a small side street just a few blocks away from the Downtown Waterfront, this gallery is a fine destination for sightseers and strolling explorers who want to dive into Southport’s storied history and arts scene.

Beach-goers who are in the mood for an ice cold brew after a full day on the beach, and who also appreciate a taste of something locally crafted and just a little different, will appreciate Carolina Beach’s own Good Hops Brewing. This local and coastal craft brewery is the only homegrown brewery on Carolina Beach, and is a welcome gulp for beer lovers who appreciate the uprising of local brewers in North Carolina, and who crave great taste that’s close to home.

For many Oak Island vacationers, the biggest draw of a coastal vacation is the option to pick up a wealth of local Cape Fear seafood to enjoy at home on the grill, in the oven, or on the stove top, and the home grown Haag & Sons Seafood delivers with a wealth of options for sea-faring tastes of all varieties. Owned and managed by Jon Haag, a local fishmonger with more than 25 years of experience, patrons can expect plenty of fresh product as well as timely advice to make their seafood selections truly shine, and become crowd pleasing dishes that the entire family will enjoy.

The only enclosed mall within a 55-mile radius, Independence Mall is the Wilmington region’s dominant fashion-oriented shopping center. With more than a million square feet of space, the mall houses four anchors and a diverse variety of in-line tenants. We are currently conducting a sweeping redevelopment of this mall, which will transform it from a fully enclosed space into a modern, open-air retail destination. The redesigned space will feature a grocery-anchored power center, a completely updated enclosed mall corridor, a modern lifestyle streetscape of upscale dining and retail options, and a multi-tenant building complex that houses a wide array of specialty service providers.

Everything You Need While at the Beach! A hardware store, tackle shop, marine supply & clothing store...a revolutionary combination

JEWELRY BY WENDYJewelry is meant to adorn the person that is wearing it. It is a visual outward expression of one's personality. I consider my jewelry  “Wearable Art.”  Many of my designs are “one of a kind” pieces, that are timeless.  

Keeping It Glam is a beauty studio that offers high class services at an affordable rate. Our mission statement sums up the experience you can expect with us. “Passionate about making you feel confident, Inspired to uplift your soul."

The Keg and Egg is a craft beer emporium with a big Pittsburgh-style influence which, when combined, creates a hearty menu that is sure to appease beer fans and hungry patrons alike. This unique beer garden and sandwich shop is a relatively new addition to the Wilmington dining scene, but it’s nevertheless already attracting students, locals, and visitors to travel to the slightly quieter Masonboro Loop region to see what all the fuss is about.

Literary fans and writers will adore the Literary History Walking Tour - a cool tour that explores the streets of Downtown Wilmington from the point of view of some of the globe’s most famous scribes. Working in conjunction with Old Books on Front Street – an iconic book store in the heart of town – this tour will fascinate and educate new visitors on Wilmington’s centuries-old literary scene.

Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a dream destination for vegetarians, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who craves a healthy meal or an array of natural and organic goodies. Located along Military Cutoff Road, and close to Eastwood Road, this hard-to-find but easy to enjoy café and gourmet food shop will appeal to anyone with great, fresh taste.

Antique hunters will enjoy a big dose of history both inside and out at the charming and unique Maggys Antiques and Collectibles. Stuffed with a number of pieces that can range from furnishings to jewelry, this eclectic antique store will charm treasure hunters of all tastes.

Bald Head Island shoppers on the hunt for fresh fare and home cooked meals to go will fall in love with the local Maritime Market, a one-stop source for virtually everything under the sun, from fresh produce to hand-prepared picnic lunches. A local staple for years, and veritably as old as the Bald Head Island region itself, the Bald Head Island market has virtually everything a visitor of good taste will need to ensure a great vacation.

Downtown Wilmington is a favorite destination for avid antique fans, and Michael Moore Antiques is a gem in a long line of downtown stores that are bursting with vintage treasures. Found within a simple, one-story brick building along Castle Street – the premier destination in the downtown area for antique hunters – the shop is distinguished for its crowded windows and an interior that’s lined with vintage items of every variety.

Mike’s Fresh Seafood is located along a busy section of Market Street, but is often overlooked by seafood fans as its rustic exterior and convenience-store vibe might not register with visitors who are looking for fresh casual seafood either in-house or on the go. With that being said, visitors should nevertheless take a second look at this destination, which has a rotating selection of frozen and fresh catches, and which operates under the mantra of “You buy, and we fry.”

Mr. Beach Rentals has been renting kayaks and paddle boards on Oak Island since 2014. They deliver kayaks, bicycles, beach umbrellas, beach chairs and other equipment directly to rental homes. Customers can rent online.  Mr. Beach Rentals delivery area includes Sunset Beach and Ocean Isle Beach in addition to Southport, Oak Island and Caswell Beach.

Though it might not look like much from the outside, the charmingly small NC Plantation Antiques is home to a treasure trove of vintage treasures that spans generations, and can cater to veritably every collector. Located in a tiny white cottage in the heart of Downtown Southport, this little antique shop is a must-see destination for shoppers who love a friendly ambiance and a lot of historic surprises.

New River Pottery a home décor superstore that offers everything to make a house a home! From interior décor, to outdoor accessories, furnishings, and much more!

Southport is well known for its collection of art galleries, antique stores, and vintage shops, and visitors can enjoy a full sample of everything this coastal town has to offer in the “treasure hunting” arena with a visit to the Northrop Antiques Mall. Featuring roughly 38 different dealers and vendors all found under one roof, this antique emporium is an all-encompassing spot for shoppers to find a myriad of eclectic items and priceless collectables.

From the refined exterior to the treasure-lined shelves, Old Elegance Antiques is a local Southport shop that certainly lives up to its name. Found in the heart of the downtown area along Moore Street, and located just a block or so away from the waterfront, this pristine antique store is a solid stop for shoppers who are looking for an arsenal of coastal décor, furnishings, and pieces to add a touch of vintage beauty to their own home.

Olde Southport Village Shoppes is a perfectly charming collection of about a half dozen local stores and services that will delight downtown explorers of all interests. Located along Howe Street, on the outskirts of the heart of the downtown area, this small shopping plaza is a charming way to experience a taste of everything this coastal community has to offer.

There’s a little something for everyone to savor at the Pine Valley Market. Centrally located along College Road, this modest-sized establishment specializes in catering, fresh meats, wine, prepared foods to feast on at home, gourmet goodies, and of course, fresh café cuisine to sit down and enjoy.

You can find everything under the sun for a fantastic vacation along the Carolina coastline with a visit to Carolina Beach’s own Pleasure Island Rentals. Located in the heart of the action and easy to reach for visitors all along the shoreline, this expansive company is well known for its huge inventory, fantastic customer service, and countless fun experiences in Carolina Beach.

For a cool cocktail to top off a long downtown exploration, or an easy-going and sunny meal to complement the waterfront surroundings, head to Southport’s Provision Company. Located on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, and recently named by a national news source as home to the “best sandwiches in America,” this no-frills restaurant features an abundance of seasonal eats that will make any newcomer an instant fan.

REAL COUNTRY MUSIC  WNBB is a Radio Station in Eastern North Carolina playing Real Country Music. You can also stream us. Thank you for tuning in!

Enjoy a night at the movies in a thoroughly modern environment with a visit to Regal Mayfaire Cinemas – a state-of-the-art movie complex that’s located in the posh and entertaining Mayfaire Community of Wilmington.

Visitors who are strolling along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk can enjoy a colorful break from the sun and sand by stepping into the vibrantly inviting Saltwater Surf Art Gallery. Featuring a wealth of distinctively beach-themed artworks, this cool little gallery will catch the eye of experienced art buyers and everyday sightseers alike.

Looking for the largest available selection of major sandal brands? Look no further than Sandal Factory. Since our original store opening in 1990, Sandal Factory has been the premier destination for casual and outdoor sandals in South Florida and the Florida Keys, and now North Carolina!

From wet suits and body boards, to Stand-up paddle board (SUP) or surfing lessons, the iconic South End Surf Shop has everything a vacationer needs to go out and enjoy those pristine Atlantic waves. Located in a historic brick building in the heart of Wrightsville Beach, this all-encompassing surf shop is a celebration of the community’s love of life on the water, and is a perfect launching point for a host of on-the-water adventures.

Sunset Beach Trading Co is a “mom and pop” style shop that has veritably everything visitors need under the sun to enjoy a stellar vacation on Sunset Beach. Located on the oceanside of the bridge to the beach, and convenient for visitors staying throughout the island, patrons can pick up everything from a snow cone to sun tan lotion to keep the good times going without ever having to venture inland.

Take a load off from exploring the streets of Downtown Wilmington and settle in with a nice cigar at The Cigar Exchange. Known as the ultimate place to purchase and enjoy cigars in the heart of Wilmington, this friendly spot features a big selection of tobacco products, as well as a variety of wine to enjoy a glass and a smoke before moving on to your next Port City adventure.

At The Exchange Barbershop & Lounge, we pride ourselves on providing a memorable and unique experience in all aspects of hospitality. With a flare of southern charm while stepping back in time, we offer the feel of an old-time barbershop that brought together a community to create great friends and conversation. From our classic haircuts to our hand-crafted cocktails and broad whiskey collections. We strive to create a welcoming, laid-back, yet upscale masculine retreat in a historic, speak-easy inspired space, right in the heart of Downtown.

Experienced art collectors and everyday sightseers alike will be surprised to find the extensive and exceptional collection at Wilmington’s own The Gallery of Fine Art. Featuring multiple artists from around the globe that will inspire and uplift visitors, this acclaimed gallery is a fine spot to begin or enhance an art collection that will last a lifetime.

The Post Café is a laid-back stop where beach-goers can relax, refresh, and load up on all the goodies that complement a perfect day on the beach. Chock-full of bakery specialties, drinks, desserts, and a light café menu, visitors can effectively load up on all the coastal essentials, from ice cream to ice cold beer.

Healthy grub and decadent delicacies combine at The Veggie Wagon, a chic little veggie shack that’s stuffed with an abundance of local and regional goodies. Located just a block or so away from the ocean in the heart of Carolina Beach, this easy-to-reach stop is the perfect place to grab a little picnic fare after an afternoon on the shore, grab some fresh groceries to enjoy at the beach house, or just peruse and linger for a beer or wine tasting.

The Port City is nothing if not creative and community-minded, and one of the chicest additions to the cultural landscape is theArtWorks - a planned art village that provides ample studio space, event venues, and gallery space for local artists to hone their talents and let their pieces shine. Open to visitors on Saturday, this amazing spot is the place to go to find talented artists before they make it big, and to discover a wealth of works that utilize the Cape Fear landscape as a stunning inspiration.

Downtown Southport is home to more than its fair share of exceptional antique stores, and the picturesque Timeless Treasures is a fine addition to the shopping district of this waterfront region. Located along Moore Street, and bordered by a host of boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants, this little shop will entice vacationers who are on the hunt for a wide variety of treasures to take home and enjoy.

Enjoy a delicious taste of the laid-back and artful Southport life with a visit to the refreshing Uncorked by the Sea Wine Shop & Gallery. Much more than a traditional wine store, this wine shop and gallery features plenty of tasting options, special events, and a host of regional artworks on display and for sale to enjoy over a glass of vino or two. A relaxing stop after a long day of exploring the city, this chic store will impress wine fans, art aficionados, and everyday visitors alike.

Uptown Market Antiques may be outside of the Downton Wilmington antiques district, but it’s nonetheless worth a stop for its huge selection, ample space, and unique pieces – both big and small – that can’t be found anywhere else.