Downtown Wilmington Travel Guide
Wilmington





Visit Downtown Wilmington
Popular places to visit

Wilmington Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in Wilmington Convention Center during your trip to Wilmington. Stroll along the seaside or attend a sporting event in the area.

The Cotton Exchange
During your visit to Wilmington, you can search for that perfect souvenir at The Cotton Exchange. Wander through the beautiful beaches and riverfront in this family-friendly area.

Wilmington Railroad Museum
You can study the exhibits at Wilmington Railroad Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your holiday in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.

Riverwalk
After visiting Riverwalk, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Wilmington. Amble around the area's riverfront or experience its festivals.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Enjoy the student vibe at University of North Carolina at Wilmington during your visit to Wilmington. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

Battleship North Carolina
Take a tour of the lead ship of North Carolina-class battleships and learn about U.S. Navy history in a unique and adventurous way.
Things to do

Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour

Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour

Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Wilmington

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Room was very clean and the amenities were perfect. Everything we enjoyed was in walking distance and the weather and walk were glorious.
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026

Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
Very Good
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026

Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Bathroom could be clean more hair on the floor... food in the a/c opening
Reviewed on 5 Apr 2026

ARRIVE Wilmington
Great location, clean comfortable rooms. Love the courtyard and firepits. Staff are friendly and helpful
Reviewed on 3 Apr 2026

Best Western Plus Coastline Inn
Beautiful river view from room for sunset. Welcoming staff on arrival.
Reviewed on 2 Apr 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District
Was there 2 nites. Staff was very nice! But… No housekeeping at all. Needed another towel. Called housekeeping & front desk several times & no one picked up (did get the towels tho, but no beds made, etc). Room HVAC was wonky: either too hot or too cold. TV didn’t work. Bar wasnt open when we wanted ...
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Wilmington

Riverfront District
If you're spending some time in Riverfront District, Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion are top sights worth seeing.

Wilmington Historic District
Wilmington Historic District is known for its stunning river views, and with sights like Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wilmington.

Brooklyn Arts District
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Brooklyn Arts District and surrounding area, you can visit Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion.

The Bottom
While The Bottom may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Cape Fear Museum and Bellamy Mansion Museum.

Northside
Though Northside may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion.

Dry Pond
While Dry Pond may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Cape Fear Museum and Bellamy Mansion Museum.
