Wilmington Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Wilmington which includes a fountain
Climb aboard a World War II battleship in this port city and catch a show at a theater that pre-dates the American Civil War.

The city of Wilmington lies on the Cape Fear River on North Carolina’s eastern coast. One of its main attractions is the 1-mile-long (1.6-kilometre) Riverwalk. Several scenic beaches are just outside the city.

Due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, much of the local economy relies on the port trade. A thriving film and television industry has developed as well. Wilmington has many museums, cultural centers and a World War II battleship that has been converted into a war memorial.

Attend a theatrical event at Thalian Hall, the city’s main centre for the performing arts. The structure’s majestic façade has striking columns and a grand pediment. Appreciate the elaborate décor as you walk through the spacious building, which dates back to 1858. Attend one of several weekly productions across the three main venues. 

See the USS North Carolina battleship at the port. Imagine the ship in use during World War II as you pass through nine levels and the crew’s living quarters. Tour the entire ship, including the engine room, to learn about the functions and missions of this gigantic battleship.

Visit the large historic district of the city, which comprises around 230 blocks. Dine at a restaurant on the bank of the Cape Fear River. Browse the items offered at the boutiques along the boardwalk.

Try the Riverwalk for excellent views of the city’s river and a romantic sunset. The nearby Cotton Exchange of Wilmington is a shopping centre consisting of historical 19th and early 20th-century buildings. 

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Airlie Gardens. Take a tram through the picturesque grounds.

Summers are hot and very humid in Wilmington, while winters are mild. Reach the city by land, water or air. Fly into the international airport, drive or take a bus or dock your boat at one of the nearby beaches.

Wilmington is a laid-back region that attracts travellers with its blend of scenic landscape and historical monuments.

Where to stay in Wilmington

Wilmington which includes an administrative building

Wilmington Historic District

Wilmington Historic District is known for its stunning river views, and with sights like Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wilmington.

Wilmington Historic District
Wilmington which includes an administrative building

Downtown Wilmington

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

Downtown Wilmington
Wilmington which includes an administrative building

River District

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

River District
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Landfall

While there might not be top attractions in Landfall, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mayfaire Town Center and Wrightsville SUP.

Landfall
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Airlie

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Airlie and surrounding area, you can visit Airlie Gardens and New Hanover County Arboretum.

Airlie
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Forest Hills

While Forest Hills may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Bellamy Mansion Museum and Battleship North Carolina.

Forest Hills
Comfort Inn University
Comfort Inn University
2.5 out of 5
151 S College Road, Wilmington, NC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is Rp1.601.548 per night from 12 May to 13 May
Rp1.601.548
per night
12 May - 13 May
Stay at this hotel in Wilmington. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,002 reviews)
"Nice place to stay for short visits"

Reviewed on 25 Apr 2024

Comfort Inn University
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4 out of 5
301 N Water St, Wilmington, NC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is Rp2.466.352 per night from 12 May to 13 May
Rp2.466.352
per night
12 May - 13 May
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Wilmington. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"Location and proximity to downtown attractions"

Reviewed on 26 Apr 2024

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington
Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington
2.5 out of 5
5126 Market St, Wilmington, NC
The price is Rp2.052.997 per night from 6 May to 7 May
Rp2.052.997
per night
6 May - 7 May
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Wilmington. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)
"Good value"

Reviewed on 26 Apr 2024

Wingate by Wyndham - Wilmington
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Water Street Retreats
Water Street Retreats
3.5 out of 5
106 N. Water St., Wilmington, NC
Stay at this 3.5-star condo in Wilmington. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and an airport shuttle. Popular attractions Riverwalk and Battleship North Carolina ...
7.6/10 Good! (180 reviews)
Nice, but could have been cleaner
"This is the 2nd time we stayed in this unit. The 1st time was perfect, but this time, there was popcorn all over the living room floor, the bathrooms were not very clean & the furniture throughout the unit was very dusty. It appears no one has stayed in this unit for quite a while. The 6 remote controls ..."

Reviewed on 30 Oct 2023

Water Street Retreats
Kasa Southside Wilmington
Kasa Southside Wilmington
4 out of 5
2910 Midtown Way, Wilmington, NC
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly apartment in Wilmington. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Battleship North Carolina ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (20 reviews)
"Wonderful thank you"

Reviewed on 22 Apr 2024

Kasa Southside Wilmington
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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