historical places to visit in wilmington nc

THE 10 BEST Wilmington Sights & Historical Landmarks

Wilmington landmarks.

• Historic Sites
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Historic Walking Areas
• Architectural Buildings
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• Government Buildings
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Monuments & Statues
• Neighborhoods
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Battleship North Carolina

2. Airlie Gardens

3. Bellamy Mansion

4. Historic District

5. Downtown Wilmington

6. Riverwalk

7. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

8. Poplar Grove Plantation

9. Wilmington Oakdale Cemetery

10. Zebulon Latimer House

11. The Basilica of St. Mary

12. Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden

13. Henrietta III

14. Wilmington National Cemetery

15. Forest Hills

16. Port City Pottery And Fine Crafts

17. Legion Stadium

18. Black Lives Do Matter Memorial Sign

19. Mcallister & Solomon Books

20. Carolina Heights

21. Bats And Brews

22. Wilmington City Hall

23. New Hanover County Courthouse

24. arrowhead park.

25. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

26. beth simcha messianic synagogue, 27. uncw seahawk soccer stadium, what travelers are saying.

• Battleship North Carolina
• Airlie Gardens
• Bellamy Mansion
• Downtown Wilmington
• Historic District

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22 Perfect Things To Do in Wilmington, NC (+ Map)

Taylor Martin --> October 11, 2023

Whether you want to see art, enjoy live music, learn about history, or do something else, there are many great things to do in Wilmington, NC .

Wilmington is an amazing city to visit and what’s great is that there’s a large variety of fun things to do you can choose from. From seeing a show to learning about railroad history to going to incredible museums, there’s something for everyone’s liking in the city.

If you’re wondering what to do in Wilmington, then you’ve come to the right place! This guide covers the best activities, must-see sights, great museums, and more.

Best Things To Do in Wilmington, NC

Visit battleship north carolina.

Battleship North Carolina , or the USS North Carolina (BB-55) is a North Carolina class fast battleship that dates back to the year 1940.

The ship took part in several military operations during World War II and the battleship earned 15 battle stars in total.

You can find the ship moored across from historic downtown Wilmington and since the year 1962, the ship functioned as a museum ship.

You can visit the ship and then explore the nine different levels of the ship by doing a self-guided tour. During this, you’ll be able to see a lot of different areas of the ship.

Also, what’s interesting is that you can find volunteers stationed throughout the ship. These volunteers can give you information about the different parts of the ship.

Address: 1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington, NC 28401

Go to the Airlie Gardens

The Airlie Gardens is a public garden that dates back to the year 1886. It was created as a private garden for the Pembroke Jones Family.

You can find many different species of flowers and trees here, including species of magnolias, palms, wisteria, and much more.

Furthermore, you can find the Airlie Oak in the gardens. This is a live oak that is about 500 years old.

Lots of events also take place in the gardens. For example, sometimes there are guided bird walks during which it is possible to learn about resident and migrating birds from an expert.

It is also sometimes possible to do a guided history tour of the gardens, there are yoga events, and there are other types of events.

Address: 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403

Do a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

A horse-drawn carriage tour is another great thing to do in Wilmington. Horsedrawn Tours Wilmington is a company that organizes these types of tours.

During such a tour, you’ll explore historic Wilmington while a costumed driver narrates the tour and gives you a lot of interesting information.

Along the way, you’ll see grand mansions and other historic parts of the city.

Each tour takes about 30 minutes and there are daily continuous tours that depart from Market Street, between Front and Water Streets. You can do these tours every day of the week, except for Sundays.

It is also possible to book a private tour.

See a Show at Thalian Hall

Thalian Hall is a performing arts center that you can find in downtown Wilmington. This is a historic theater that dates back to the year 1858.

All kinds of different events take place at the theater. For example, it is possible to go here to attend movies. In addition to that, there are concerts, musicals, and other types of events.

What makes seeing a show here even more special is that the Thalian Hall is a beautiful building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The architectural style of the building consists of elements from both the Late Victorian and Classical Revival architectural styles.

Besides going to Thalian Hall to attend an event, it is also possible to do a behind-the-scenes tour. During this, a volunteer docent shows you the building and gives you a lot of information about the theater’s history. Each tour takes 60 minutes in total.

Address: 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Go to the Bellamy Mansion Museum

The Bellamy Mansion Museum is one of the best museums in Wilmington . This is a historic house museum that you can find at the Bellamy Mansion in the Wilmington Historic District.

The Bellamy Mansion is a mansion that dates back to the end of the 19th century and is a great example of antebellum architecture.

At the museum, you can learn about the social and architectural history of the building.

When you are going to the museum, it is possible to do a tour which is one of the best things to do in Wilmington. There are three types of tours that you can do.

It is possible to do a self-guided paper tour. Besides that, you can do a guided audio tour for which you’ll need a smartphone and headphones. It is also sometimes possible to do an in-person tour.

Address: 503 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Visit the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens

The Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is a structure from the colonial era. It is the only structure from that time that is still open to the public and it was built in the year 1770.

Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is operated as a museum house.

At the museum, it is possible for visitors to see beautiful Georgian architecture. Also, what’s interesting is that all rooms of the building have furniture from the 18th and 19th century.

By visiting the museum, people can also learn about life in the city from before the Revolutionary War.

You can do a guided house tour every day, except for Sundays. There is also an art gallery that the public can visit.

Address: 224 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Attend a Concert at the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater

Greenfield Lake Amphitheater is an open-air amphitheater that is located in Greenfield Park.

The venue has a capacity of 1,200 people and lots of concerts and other events take place here.

Attending a concert at this amphitheater while being outdoors and seeing nature at the same time is one of the best activities in Wilmington.

What’s great is that concerts of a large variety of genres take place at the amphitheater. Some of the genres that you could listen to here include rock and folk.

Besides concerts, another event that takes place at the amphitheater is Shakespeare on the Green. This is a free festival during which the public can enjoy great productions of Shakespeare.

Address: 1941 Amphitheatre Dr, Wilmington, NC 28401

See Art at the Cameron Art Museum

When looking to see art in the city, the Cameron Art Museum , or CAM, is a great place to consider going to. This museum is located in downtown Wilmington on South 17th Street.

You can attend great art exhibitions at the museum that are at the museum for several months.

Besides art exhibitions, it is possible to do more at CAM. For example, you can sometimes go here for film screenings, attend a performance, or join an author talk.

In addition to that, there are classes and workshops at the museum, including classes that are great for children.

To make your visit to CAM even better, you can combine going here with going to CAM Café, which is a full-service restaurant that serves local food and that is located at the museum.

Address: 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412

Explore the Wilmington Riverwalk

The Wilmington Riverwalk is a two-mile walkway along the Cape Fear River in Downtown Wilmington.

The Riverwalk is a wonderful place to go for a leisurely stroll while enjoying great views of the river. From here, you’re also able to see the beautiful Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and North Carolina Battleship, another one of the best attractions in Wilmington to check out.

On the walkway, you can find many local restaurants that provide a view of the Cape Fear River.

What’s great about the riverwalk is that, because of its location, it is easy to combine going for a walk here with going to other sights in the city.

Go to a Concert at the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College

The Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College is a state-of-the-art performing arts center where many different types of events take place. You can find this performing arts center at Cape Fear Community College.

You can enjoy amazing concerts at the venue by the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra.

Besides that, great Broadway musicals take place at the center.

There are also great events during the holiday season. For example, you could attend the annual production of “The Nutcracker” here during the Christmas season.

What’s great to know about the Wilson Center is that it is a place where students of the college learn. Students work on every production that takes place at the Wilson Center.

Address: 703 N 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Do a Tour of the Poplar Grove Plantation

Located a bit outside of Wilmington, you can find the Poplar Grove Plantation. The Poplar Grove Plantation used to be a sweet potato and peanut plantation.

The manor house of the museum was restored and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a historic house that is open to the public as a museum since the year 1980.

At the museum, you can learn about the Foy family and the people that the family enslaved.

During the summer season, it is possible to go to this place and join one of the daily guided tours. In addition to that, there are other types of events that take place at the Poplar Grove Plantation, such as music events.

Address: 10200 Hwy 17, Wilmington, NC 28411

Go to DEFY Wilmington

A very fun thing to do in Wilmington is to go to DEFY Wilmington. This is also one of the best things to do with children in Wilmington, NC !

DEFY Wilmington is an indoor trampoline park where lots of trampolines can be found. In fact, there is a large open jump area with many trampolines next to each other.

In addition to that, there are several other attractions at DEFY Wilmington. For example, there is a high-end air track.

There is also a fun ninja course with all kinds of obstacles, there is a zipline, and there are aerial silks.

Address: 6431 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28405

Go to the Wilmington Railroad Museum

The Wilmington Railroad Museum is a fun museum where you can learn a lot about the railroads of Wilmington and its surroundings.

At the museum, you can see many different exhibits with objects that relate to the development of railroads in the city. Besides that, the exhibits allow you to learn about the people that made the railroad possible.

The museum has interesting memorabilia related to Wilmington’s railroads. Besides that, there are many large objects related to the railroads. For example, there is a 100-year-old steam locomotive.

In addition to that, there are fun events that take place at the museum.

Address: 505 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Attend a Show at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion

The Live Oak Bank Pavilion is a lovely outdoor amphitheater. You can find this amphitheater in historic downtown Wilmington next to the Cape Fear River on Harnett Street.

This is a much larger venue compared to the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, which is another outdoor venue in the city, as it has a capacity of 7,200 people.

Lots of concerts take place at the venue throughout the year, including great rock and country concerts.

Address: 10 Cowan St, Wilmington, NC 28401

See the Latimer House

Latimer House is a building that dates back to the year 1852. It is now a museum where you can learn about the life of an upper-class family that lived in the Cape Fear region during the 19th century. You can learn about three generations of the Latimer Family when you go here.

The building has 14 rooms in total and you can explore the many areas of the house through daily guided tours.

The rooms contain more than 600 historical objects, half of which were originally in the home. Moreover, you can see historical furniture inside the home.

Besides going here and doing a tour, you can also go to the Latimer House and Gardens for special seasonal events, such as art exhibitions.

Address: 126 S 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Play Golf at the Wilmington Municipal Golf Course

If you enjoy playing golf, the city of Wilmington has plenty of great golf courses to choose from. A great activity in Wilmington is to go to the Wilmington Municipal Golf Course.

This is a golf course that dates back to the year 1926 when it was designed by Donald Ross.

The golf course is an 18-hole championship golf course that is great for all skill levels.

The golf is open to the public and local residents get a discount.

Address: 311 Donald Ross Dr, Wilmington, NC 28409

Visit the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science

Another must-visit in the city is the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science. This is a museum, located in downtown Wilmington, that was founded in the year 1898.

At the museum, you can learn about the history, science, and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear.

A wide variety of exhibits can be seen at the museum and the museum’s collection consists of more than 50,000 objects. These objects can be seen through various exhibitions that often change.

For example, there is an exhibition related to space. There is also an exhibition that focuses on Michael Jordan.

Some of the past exhibitions include exhibitions about water, the solar system, and dinosaurs.

Address: 814 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Check Out the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History

The Wrightsville Beach Museum of History is an interesting local history museum that you can find near Wilmington.

At the museum, you can learn about Wrightsville Beach. You can learn about its story through the years.

You can find various exhibits at the museum through which you can learn about various groups of people who played a role in Wrightsville Beach’s history.

There are also interesting annual events at the museum. For example, you can attend the annual art days at the museum.

Address: 303 W Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480

Shop at the Old Wilmington City Market

The Old Wilmington City Market is a historic building that is a great place for shopping that was established in 1880. It started out as a farmer’s market. After that, the building served other purposes.

Nowadays, you can find a variety of specialty shops and great local art galleries at the Old Wilmington City Market.

For example, you can find an artisan coffee shop in the building called Cheeky Monkey Coffee. There is also a shop where you can buy North Carolina-made products.

Besides being great for its offering of specialty shops and art galleries, Old Wilmington City Market is also great for the design of the building itself.

Address: 119 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401

Check Out the Museum of the Bizarre

The Museum of the Bizarre is an interesting museum to visit in Wilmington, NC. This is a curiosities museum where you can see all kinds of strange and unique things.

The exhibits that you can see at the museum are very diverse. Examples of exhibits that you can find at the museum are “Shrunken Heads” and “Unicorn Horn”.

You can also find the “Laser Vault” exhibit here. This is a room with green lasers pointing from wall to wall. You need to navigate through the room without touching any of the lasers.

Furthermore, there is a mirror maze at the museum that can be fun.

Address: 201 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401

See Animals at the Tregembo Animal Park

If you’re wondering what to do in Wilmington and you like seeing animals, then, you can go to the Tregembo Animal Park .

This is the oldest zoo in Eastern Orth Carolina and it is operated by the Tregembo family. The zoo was established in 1952 and has grown a lot since its beginnings.

At the zoo, you can find more than 100 different species and all kinds of reptiles, birds, amphibians, mammals, and insects. Some of the animals that you can find at the zoo include lion, zebra, bear, and giraffe.

These animals are very interesting to see and besides that, there are special events that often take place at the zoo.

Address: 5811 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412

Go to Jungle Rapids

Jungle Rapids is a fun water park that is located in Wilmington, NC. It is possible to go here and enjoy the waterpark during the summer season.

The waterpark has fun water slides and pools.

Besides that, there’s much more that you can do at Jungle Rapids.

For example, there is a large arcade at Jungle Rapids with many fun games to play.

Besides that, it is possible to go here for laser tag, mini bowling, miniature golf, go-karts, and much more.

There are also special seasonal events that take place at Jungle Rapids. For example, during Halloween, there are special events.

Address: 5320 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403

More Wilmington Articles

Things to do with kids in Wilmington, NC

Rainy day activities in Wilmington

Fun things to do at night in Wilmington, NC

What To Do in Wilmington Tips

When you are considering doing a trip to Wilmington, NC, I recommend staying in historic downtown Wilmington.

This is the area in the city where you can find most of the Wilmington things to do on this list, making it easy to go everywhere. Also, you can find many restaurants and stores near you when you stay in this area.

Wilmington Things To Do Map

I hope I helped you decide what to do in the city. Thanks for reading my guide to the best things to do in Wilmington, NC!

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Historical Things to Do in Wilmington NC

Fort Fisher Mermaid at Sunrise? - Museum of the Bizarre

Looking to discover the best historic homes and historical sites in the South? Look no further than Wilmington, NC. Established in 1739 on the Cape Fear River. Wilmington has been an important city throughout American History.

• Wilmington was the main access point for Confederate supplies. During the Civil War until its surrender in 1865.
• Wilmington was the first city in the country. To receive the designation “American WW2 Heritage City.”

So come take a look as we discover great historical things to do in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Discover Historic Downtown Wilmington

Enjoy the funky shops, the great restaurants , and the beautiful riverwalk. As you take in historic downtown Wilmington. The Historic District is one of the largest. And prettiest districts on the National Register of Historic Places. It has over 230 blocks, 875 buildings, and 38 historic sites.

The Historic District is a great place to walk. Or if you prefer, you can tour the area by horse-drawn carriage.

Take a Stroll on the Riverwalk

Located on the banks of the Cape Fear River, this beautiful 2-mile Riverwalk is a great place to start. Sip an espresso at an outdoor cafe. Learn about the history of Wilmington on a guided tour. Check out the markets, unique boutiques, and art galleries open year-round.

Bellamy Mansion Museum

This history museum offers tours Mon-Sun from 10 am to 4 pm. Designed by architect James F Post for the Bellamy family. This 10,000 sq-foot home was built between 1859 and 1861. It shares architectural elements of Greek Revival, Neoclassical and Italianate styles.

Explore the mansion from the basement to the belvedere with a guided or self-guided tour. It hosts one of the best-preserved slave quarters in the country. After touring the house, stroll through the restored gardens that date back to the Civil War.

The Bellamy Mansion Museum features various events and exhibits throughout the year. Looking for jazz, check out the summer jazz series. The popular Nights of Lights Holiday Open House returns this winter 2022.

Museum of the Bizarre

This museum in historic downtown Wilmington features oddities and wonders. Some popular exhibits, that the whole family will enjoy:

• Crystal Skull of Knowledge
• Fort Fisher Mermaid
• Houdini’s Ouija Board
• Goat Brothers Heads

Looking for adventure? Test your Mission Impossible skills in the Laser Vault Maze. Avoid the crisscrossing laser beams as you make it to the other side in record time.

Burgin-Wright House

This historic home is the only structure from the colonial era open to the public. This Georgian-style home was built in 1770 on the stone walls of the former city jail. You can still see the remains of the outdoor and sub-basement jail cells.

The colonial-style gardens have 7 distinct areas. That includes the orchard, the kitchen garden, and the rose garden. Daily tours describe the lives and history of those who lived. And worked in this beautiful mansion.

The Latimer House

Now a history museum. The Latimer House depicts life in Wilmington during the Victorian era. This 14-room historic home was built in 1852. The furnishings and exhibits will take you back 160 years. To what life was like for three generations of the Latimer family. From the Latimer House, you can take a 1 ½ hour walking tour through the Historic District.

Blind Elephant Speakeasy

You don’t need a special knock to enter this 1920’s prohibition bar. It’s located down an abandoned alley in the middle of historic downtown Wilmington. Take a step back to a bygone era as you enjoy clandestine cocktails and great live music. Looking for somewhere private and cozy? Check out the Volstead Room upstairs, but you’ll need reservations and a password to enter.

Tour the Battleship North Carolina

Across from Historic Downtown on the Cape Fear River. Come tour the most decorated battleship in WW2, the USS North Carolina. See what life was like on a WW2 battleship as you explore 9 decks, crew quarters, and gun turrets.

Completed in April 1941. The Battleship North Carolina was the first in a new class of fast battleships for the US Navy. The ship saw extensive action in the South Pacific during WW2, earning 15 battle stars.

Decommissioned in 1947, the Battleship North Carolina. Now honors the more than 10,000 men and women of North Carolina. Who gave their lives defending America’s freedoms.

Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington

Discover the sordid history of Wilmington. As you tour the city’s actively haunted homes and burial grounds. This 90-minute tour has been named one of the “top 5 ghost walks in America” by USA Today.

Poplar Grove Plantation

Head north on US 17, and you’ll find the Poplar Grove Plantation. Formerly a sweet potato and peanut plantation. The Poplar Grove Plantation is now a living history museum. The museum offers tours Wed-Sat from 9:30 am - 3:30 pm during the summer.

See what plantation life was like as you tour the 835-acre site. On the grounds, you can explore the manor house (c. 1850), the original smokehouse, and the kitchen shed. The museum also has 3 heritage art studios: the Basket Gallery, Print Shop, and Blacksmith Shop.

Every Wednesday from April through September. The museum hosts a Local Market featuring local growers and producers.

Ready to Discover Wilmington NC?

Looking for history? Great restaurants? Beautiful southern architecture?

Or just a good old-fashioned ghost story?

Whatever you fancy, you’ll find it in Wilmington NC.

So plan your trip now and come discover all the great historical things to do in Wilmington NC.

Author: ENC Explorer

After getting accepted to ECU, I started looking for things to do in and around Greenville, NC. However, my searches kept taking me to places in South Carolina! There must be things to do around ECU, so I started asking other students. They kept telling me to graduate and move away! This inspired me to begin exploring eastern North Carolina and build this website as a showcase of the places to go, sights to see, and things to do all over eastern NC. I have fallen in love with this region and started taking up roots here. After graduating, I didn't move away - I bought a house here and continue to explore eastern North Carolina.

This place is for Publicity

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Lower Cape Fear Historical Society, INC.

The Latimer House

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of nineteenth-century wilmington society.

Guided tours Tuesday-Saturday every hour from 10am-3pm. Last tour begins at 2pm.

Welcome to the Latimer House

Step into the remarkable realm of the Latimer House Museum and Gardens, a treasured cornerstone of Wilmington’s rich historical legacy. Built in the early 1850s, this well-preserved home situated in the heart of downtown Wilmington invites you to delve into the history of our region. As you traverse the halls of the Latimer House, ready yourself for a captivating journey back to the Victorian era in North Carolina, vividly brought to life by the shared experiences and enduring legacy of three generations of the Latimer family.

Discover the Wonders of Latimer House

Immersive Experiences at the Latimer House: Your Gateway to Wilmington’s Victorian Era

Explore the House

Journey back through time at the Latimer House Museum and Gardens, a living testament to Wilmington’s Victorian history. We invite you to experience firsthand the rich legacy of the Latimer family, as you explore the opulent rooms and verdant gardens of this preserved architectural gem. Expert docents are on hand to answer questions and discuss the history of the family and era.

The Ida B. Kellam Archive

Whether you are a scholar or history enthusiast, the on-site archive promises a fascinating journey through the lower Cape Fear region’s past. Here, a treasure trove of documents, books, and photographs await, offering remarkable insights into a region with a lengthy and sometimes controversial history.

Donate or Volunteer

Become an integral part of the Latimer House Museum and Gardens’ mission to preserve and share the rich history of Wilmington’s Victorian era and beyond. Your generous donation or volunteer time will contribute directly to the ongoing upkeep of this architectural treasure and its beautiful gardens. Join us in maintaining this historical legacy for present and future generations.

Attend an Event

Experience the grandeur of the past by attending one of our events at the Latimer House. We offer something for everyone, such as classical music performances, book talks, and holiday events. Our goal is to share this wonderful and unique space with visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Join us and become a part of the living history that is the Latimer House experience.

What Our Visitors Say

Our tour guide was very knowledgeable. It’s a beautiful house with an interesting past. Highly recommended!

Local Guide ( Google )

This was such a great tour! Our tour guide was very well educated and animated about the information she was sharing. We really enjoyed our time at Latimer House.

Erin McDermott

Reviewer ( Google )

Excellent tour by tour guide. It was nice to go into every room and get up close to items since this isn’t usually the norm!

Angie Frost

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC

Written by Dorothy Stephenson and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Not as well-known to tourists as its southern sister cities of Charleston and Savannah, Wilmington, North Carolina has its own historic district of fine antebellum homes and mercantile blocks. Here, and in the area around the city, you can visit historic plantations and homes, including Bellamy House, Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens , and Poplar Grove Plantation.

The city's most attention-grabbing attraction — it's hard to miss — is the immense Battleship North Carolina , a WWII-era warship that is open to tour. Wilmington's port, sheltered on Cape Fear River, gained prosperity by shipping petroleum and pulp products, and this coast played an important part in Civil War history. Today, however, Wilmington's Fort Fisher is better known for the beautiful white beaches of the state park that surrounds it.

While Wilmington is deeply rooted in American history — the evidence of which we can still see to this day — it is a decidedly modern city, with high-end hotels, restaurants, shopping, and activities that will please any 21st-century traveler. Though a quick turn down any corner can have you stepping back in time to the days before the Civil War.

Whether you're traveling with your whole family or looking for a romantic getaway for two, you'll find plenty of things to do in Wilmington. Downtown Wilmington has been revitalized, with a focus on the riverfront , which has become a center for dining, shopping, entertainment, and the arts.

For more ideas on places to visit, read our list of the top tourist attractions in Wilmington.

See also: Where to Stay in Wilmington

1. Tour Battleship North Carolina

2. visit airlie gardens, 3. walk through the historic district in downtown wilmington, 4. stroll along the riverwalk, 5. bellamy mansion, 6. north carolina aquarium at fort fisher, 7. thalian hall center for the performing arts, 8. new hanover county arboretum, 9. cape fear museum of history and science, 10. wilmington railroad museum, 11. poplar grove plantation, 12. burgwin-wright house and gardens, 13. cameron art museum, 14. cape fear & brunswick islands beaches, 15. soak up the sun at wrightsville beach, 16. children's museum of wilmington, where to stay in wilmington for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in wilmington, nc, wilmington, nc - climate chart.

Commissioned on April 9, 1941, Battleship North Carolina was the first of 10 battleships to join the American fleet in World War II. During her service, the North Carolina carried 144 commissioned Navy officers, 2,195 enlisted men, and about 100 marines. Their stories and their lives on board the ship are much of the focus of the exhibits you'll see as you explore the nine levels of the ship, illustrated by photographs and artifacts, along with recorded oral histories.

One of the ship's attractions, especially for visiting children, is its accessibility. They can climb into the sailors' bunks, go into the massive engine room, plan strategies in the Combat Information Center, and take aim from behind the great guns (these include nine 16-inch, 45-caliber guns in three turrets and 20 five-inch, 38-caliber guns in 10 twin mounts).

The battleship also hosts a variety of events on the weekends, including re-enactments with living history interpreters and special behind-the scenes tours that take visitors to areas not usually open to the public.

Address: 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.battleshipnc.com

Visitors, and especially garden lovers, appreciate the beautiful scenery at these historical gardens that date back to 1886. The grounds are lush with azaleas, camellias, and the signature Airlie Oak, which is more than 400 years old.

Guests can take a self-guided walking tour of the 67-acre estate to admire the formal gardens, historic buildings, sculptures, live oaks, pines, lakes, and diverse ecosystems that are habitats for a rich variety of wildlife. The 2,700-square-foot open-air butterfly house, open May 15 to October 15, is alive with hundreds of native North Carolina butterflies, including monarchs and giant swallowtails.

Address: 300 Airlie Road, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: http://airliegardens.org/

Downtown Wilmington is home to the state's largest National Register Historic District, which includes hundreds of 19th- and early 20th-century buildings. Along with historic homes are vintage mercantile blocks, where local restaurants serve up tasty seafood, and the shops stock everything from antiques to trendy fashions.

During the warmer months there are frequent events downtown, including gallery walks, live music, and festivals.

As well as attractions such as the Cape Fear Museum , the Children's Museum of Wilmington , and Battleship North Carolina just across the river, several streets are lined with beautiful old homes, many with their fascinating histories related on signs.

There are several ways to enjoy the area: you can stroll its streets and browse in its shops on your own, join a walking tour, take an informative trolley tour, or ride through the historic streets in a horse-drawn carriage.

Official site: www.wilmingtondowntown.com

One of the favorite - and free - things to do in Wilmington is stroll along the Riverwalk that borders the Cape Fear River. This mile-long boardwalk offers river views as well as access to historic buildings, shopping, dining, and arts venues.

Along its route are the shops of the Cotton Exchange , launching places for boat tours of the river, public art works, cafes, shops, restaurants with riverside terraces, and benches for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Events enliven the Riverwalk year-round, including the Saturday morning Farmers Market in the summer, the annual Riverfest, and performances by local musicians and entertainers.

The walkway runs for nearly two miles, stretching from Nunn Street to the Isabella Holmes Bridge. Tip: For one of the best views of the river, be sure to stop at Conlon Pier. If you like to fish, this is the only spot along the riverwalk where you can cast, as well.

Bellamy Mansion, a pre-Civil War structure, is regarded as one of North Carolina's most spectacular historic antebellum homes. Slaves and free black artisans built the antebellum structure for physician, planter, and business leader John Dillard Bellamy, who lived here with his wife Eliza and their children. As you tour, their stories will unfold, along with those of their slaves, whose restored quarters are among the few to exist from urban households.

Throughout its 150-year history, the house has survived the Civil War, being commandeered by Federal troops after the fall of Fort Fisher, a state of disrepair, and a devastating fire. Outside, the recreated Victorian gardens are shaded by a magnolia tree that is 150 years old.

Address: 503 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.bellamymansion.org

Although it is located about 20 miles outside Wilmington, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is well worth the trip. Especially popular with children and families, the aquarium gives visitors a chance to see and learn about aquatic species from the region and from around the world. Exhibits include freshwater and saltwater species, with a focus on the Cape Fear River and the changes in habitats as it reaches the sea.

The aquarium's residents include loggerhead sea turtles, stingrays, sharks, eels, jellyfish, a wide variety of fish, and even a bald eagle. There is also a touch-tank, where visitors can meet some of the ocean's more interesting critters, like horseshoe crabs and starfish, and an area dedicated to reptiles where you can meet Luna, a rare albino alligator.

The aquarium offers a variety of daily programs that include opportunities to watch feedings, ask the staff questions, and get up close to some of the fascinating animals.

Address: 900 Loggerhead Road, Kure Beach, North Carolina

Official site: www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher

The historic Thalian Hall, constructed in 1858, has been in almost continuous use since first opening. Designed by one of the foremost theater architects of the day, John Montague Trimble, this is the only of his works still surviving. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, its stage hosted performances by celebrities that included Buffalo Bill Cody and John Philip Sousa, and in 1928 the Ziegfeld Follies.

Today, restored to its early 20th-century appearance, it is considered one of the most significant theaters in the United States. More than 400 performances and events come to its three venues each year, including theater, film, dance, lectures, and music of all genres (country, pop, and jazz, to mention just a few).

Address: 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.thalianhall.org

Another free thing to do in Wilmington, and a great favorite with children, is the arboretum operated by the local Cooperative Extension Service. Seven acres of land in the city center is devoted to growing plant species best suited to southeastern North Carolina and to demonstrating gardening techniques. A favorite is the Japanese Garden , with a koi pond, an arching bridge, and a tea house.

There is a children's garden with a miniature play house , and a border of perennial flowers surrounds a water garden . A rose garden , an herb garden designed to attract butterflies, a tropical garden , and a picnic area are all fitted into this urban oasis.

Address: 6206 Oleander Drive, Midtown, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: https://arboretum.nhcgov.com

Founded to house collections of Confederate objects and mementos, the Cape Fear Museum has expanded over the years to hold more than 52,000 items relating to regional, national, and international history, as well as culture and science.

The museum has a special focus on the environment of the Lower Cape Fear, and the Michael Jordan Discovery Gallery brings that to children with creative, hands-on exhibits that allow kids to interact with nature by using their senses. Here, they can feed insects to carnivorous plants and crawl inside a beaver lodge.

The museum spills outdoors into its adjacent park, where interactive exhibits invite people to consider how they relate to the land and water around them. Gardens of native plants, activities, and hands-on exhibits in this area are always free.

Address: 814 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.capefearmuseum.com

Preserving an industry vital to the city for well over a century, this museum features exhibits on the Wilmington & Weldon Railroad. At its height in the 1840s, the railroad was the world's longest continuous rail line, stretching 161 miles. At the end of the century, it merged with other east coast companies to create the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad.

Exhibits trace the growth of railways in Wilmington and explore the contributions of Thomas Edison, George Pullman, and others. Nearly two dozen model trains travel through miniature towns and countryside, and the museum includes rolling stock and a century-old steam locomotive. Kids will like the train-themed play area.

Address: 505 Nutt Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.wrrm.org

One of the oldest peanut plantations in North Carolina, Poplar Grove Plantation encompasses more than 15 acres and the house and outbuildings constructed for Joseph Mumford Foy in 1850. Exhibits explore the skilled construction and finish work of the three-story house by Foy family slaves, using pine, black walnut, and other materials available on the plantation.

Six generations of the Foy family owned the historic house until 1971, and on the plantation is the last remaining tenant house, occupied until the 1960s by a descendent of the Foy family's slaves. Also part of the plantation are the original smokehouse, a blacksmith shop, and agricultural exhibits on the production of peanuts.

Address: 1200 US Hwy 17, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.poplargrove.org

Only three local houses have survived since the colonial area, and the Burgwin-Wright House is the only one open for public tours. Built in 1770, the home features Georgian architecture, 18th- and 19th-century antiques and household goods, and a separate kitchen house furnished with period utensils. Guided tours are available, and the grounds can also be rented for private events.

Alden Hopkins and Donald Parker, two of Colonial Williamsburg's renowned landscape architects , designed the lush gardens on the property. Covering more than half an acre, these include two terraced gardens; a rose garden; kitchen and medicinal gardens; and an orchard with pomegranate, fig, and espaliered crabapple trees. Entrance to the gardens is free.

Address: 224 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: http://burgwinwrighthouse.com/

Selections from the museum's permanent collection of fine arts, decorative arts, and design by local, national, and international artists include a large number of works on paper by artists that include Mary Cassatt and Ando Hiroshige. Art from these collections is not on permanent display, but the works are presented in rotating themed exhibits. Collections are especially strong in works by North Carolina artists.

The museum also hosts interactive family and children's programs, including music, film, literature, dance, and other arts.

Address: 3201 S 17th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.cameronartmuseum.org

A total of 10 beaches border the coast and islands at the mouth of the Cape Fear River, only a few miles from Wilmington. The closest is Carolina Beach , a family-oriented beach town with one of the country's best boardwalks. At its southern border is Kure Beach , surrounded by water, with the river on one side and the Atlantic on the other, providing options for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. Kure Beach is especially known for its 700-foot-long fishing pier.

Directly south of that is the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and Historic Site , with miles of beach and undeveloped shoreline. At the historic site, visitors can walk the remaining earthworks of Fort Fisher, one of the most important Confederate strongholds in the Civil War, on an interpretive walking trail.

If you were wooed by Carolina and Kure beaches, you must make the short trip to Wrightsville Beach. This is one of the top-rated beaches in North Carolina , and is a haven for all types of waterfront activity, from stand up paddleboarding and surfing to kiteboarding and swimming.

For one of the best views of the North Carolina coast, hop aboard a sunset sail tour from Wrightsville Beach. The two-hour sunset sail takes guests aboard a 42-foot yacht for some epic views of the waterways and barrier islands. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls this stretch of coast home.

Curated for children up to age 10, the Children's Museum of Wilmington offers opportunities to explore and learn about art, science, and culture through hands-on experiences. In the Ahoy Wilmington! section, kids can board a ship, dig for treasure, and explore a "sea cave."

An art studio provides inspiration and materials for drawing, painting, sculpture, weaving, and other arts. Toddlers can climb and slide safely in the Tree House, and in the grocery store, kids can fill their shopping carts and play cashier at the check-out register.

Address: 116 Orange Street, Wilmington, North Carolina

Official site: www.playwilmington.org

The best place to stay in Wilmington is right downtown , where many of the attractions are clustered along the Cape Fear River , including the Battleship North Carolina and the Railway Museum . A couple of blocks back from the riverfront, in the Historic District , are charming old character buildings, great dining, and the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts . Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• With a prime location on the riverfront in downtown, the Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is right in the center of the action. From the elevated patio, there are views out over the water to the Battleship North Carolina .
• A short drive from downtown, and four miles from the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington/Mayfaire offers a resort-like experience, with a beautiful outdoor pool and a three-hole putting green.
• In the heart of the Historic District , near some of the best restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, is the Courtyard Wilmington Downtown/Historic District .

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Right on the riverfront, beside the Wilmington Convention Center , is the Best Western Plus Coastline Inn . For railway buffs, the Railroad Museum is a one-minute walk away.
• The SpringHill Suites Wilmington Mayfaire with an outdoor pool, rooms with kitchens, and complimentary breakfast, is a short drive from the city center .
• In the same area is the popular Staybridge Suites Wilmington - Wrightsville, offering very large rooms with kitchens and many restaurants within walking distance .

Budget Hotels:

• Budget hotels are four to five miles outside the downtown core. The popular Sleep Inn has good rooms at a fair price, and the Days Inn by Wyndham Wilmington / University is basic but comfortable and offers similar amenities. Both of these have outdoor pools and are within walking distance of each other, as well as restaurants and a mall.

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History and Natural Wonders: Wilmington is only one of several places worth visiting in North Carolina . The state capital of Raleigh is a good choice for those interested in history, with a number of historic buildings, as well as many African American Heritage Sites . Asheville and Hendersonville are located in the western part of the state and make good bases for touring the Blue Ridge Parkway . The state also has many options for romantic getaways that are perfect for a couple's weekend or honeymoon.

Family Fun in North Carolina: The vibrant city of Charlotte is filled with kid-friendly attractions like Discovery Place and the Paramount's Carowinds amusement park, as well as attractions that the whole family will love, like the Carolinas Aviation Museum. In summer, North Carolina's beaches are another popular family destination. In winter, many families head to the ski resorts in North Carolina and base themselves in the nearby mountain towns .

More on North Carolina

Top Things to Do in Wilmington, NC

Places to visit in wilmington, explore popular experiences, ways to tour wilmington.

Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise

Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach

History and Architecture Walking Tour

Sunset Sail Tour

2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour

Private and Custom Brewery Tour in a '72 VW Bus

Trolley Pub Public Tour

1 Hour Private Tarot Reading in Wilmington

Wacky Wilmington Scavenger Hunt

Half-Day E-Bike Tour of the Filming Locations in One Tree Hill

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Wilmington NC Historic Homes

Slowly stroll through historic homes and their well-kept yards in Wilmington, NC including the Bellamy Mansion , Burgwin-Wright House , and Latimer House .  Go back in time to feel the pre- and post-Civil War residences.  Closely examine the architecture, artifacts and antiques.

The Wilmington Historic District is home to a wide variety of historic homes, each with their own unique architectural style and historical significance. Some of the most notable types of historic homes found in the district include:

  •  Victorian-style homes: These homes were built during the Victorian era (1837-1901) and are known for their ornate and decorative features, such as turrets, towers, and gingerbread trim. Many of the Victorian homes in the Wilmington Historic District have been beautifully restored and maintained, and are considered some of the most desirable properties in the area.

  •  Queen Anne-style homes: These homes were also popular during the Victorian era and are known for their asymmetrical design and steeply pitched roofs. They often feature a mix of different architectural elements, such as gables, dormers, and bay windows.

  •  Colonial Revival-style homes: These homes were built during the early 20th century and are a revival of the architectural style of homes built during the colonial period (1700s). They feature symmetrical facades, columns, and dentil molding, and are often painted in traditional colors such as white or light gray.

We respect the perspectives of all individuals in relation to historical sites that should be put in context.  We provide them for educational purposes as part of a comprehensive tourism experience.

Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design Arts

503 Market Street Wilmington, NC 28401 910.251.3700 map

10,000 sq. ft. – 22 Rooms

Formal Garden

Greek Revival, Neoclassical and Italianate Architecture – Antebellum Period

Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens

224 Market Street Wilmington, NC 28401 910.762.0570

Colonial Era – Georgian Architecture – Public Gardens – Tours

Listen to Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens Podcasts

Historic District Walking Tours

Offered by the Lower Cape Fear Historical Society

Call 910.762.0492

Historic Wilmington Foundation Walking Tours

211 Orange Street Wilmington, NC 28401 910.762.2511

Walking tours take you past historic places without entering structures.

Latimer House

126 South Third Street Wilmington, NC 28401 910.762.0492 map

Victorian Era – Antebellum Home – Tours

Tourist Information

VisitWilmingtonNC.com™

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

10 Wonderful Things to Do in Wilmington North Carolina

Sarah Ricks

From exploring a riverwalk and beaches to historical sites and museums, there are many diverse things to do in Wilmington, North Carolina. A coastal, southeastern city, Wilmington is steeped in history. Visit the historic downtown district, a Civil War site and plantations. Admire the gorgeous 19 th -century architecture and learn about the area’s Black history. Whatever your interests, there is no shortage of fascinating things to do in Wilmington, NC.

Read on for our 10 favorite things to do in Wilmington North Carolina.

Read More: Check out the best places to visit across North Carolina .

1. Riverwalk on Cape Fear River

In the center of historic downtown Wilmington is the pretty 1.75 mile riverfront walkway. It attracts strolling couples and families, runners and dog walkers. The wooden Riverwalk, which has previously been voted “Best American Riverfront” by USA Today readers, runs alongside the bank of the Cape Fear River. Cafes, restaurants and gift shops line the walkway and make strolling even more enjoyable.

And since people-watching with the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and river view was fun, we returned several times. While we didn’t visit the Battleship North Carolina, which served in World War II, we were able to see the ship from the riverwalk. The battleship is open for tours. Tickets can be bought in person and on the website .

SheBuysTravel Tip: Consider buying this pass that gets you into 50+ Wilmington attractions for one low price.

2. Bellamy Mansion Museum

Touring the antebellum Bellamy Mansion , built between 1869 and 1861, is one of the most popular things to do in Wilmington, North Carolina. The imposing white mansion is a mix of Neoclassical architectural styles, including Greek Revival and Italianate, and is near the center of town.

I appreciated that our thoughtful tour guide did not shy away from slavery, important United States history. For example, our guide showed us the quarters for enslaved people, a brick building right behind the big house. Then she pointed out there were no openings on the street side.

Similarly, the guide explained that both enslaved people and African American freedmen built the house, including the elaborate plasterwork. In fact, one enslaved man, William Gould, signed his work. And the museum displays the plaster fragment with his signature. The guide explained that William Gould later escaped, served in the Union Navy and kept a diary that his great-grandson published in 2002. The book is available for purchase at Bellamy Mansion and in some bookstores .

While we missed seeing the colonial-era Burgwin-Wright House on this trip, the historic downtown Wilmington mansion on Market Street is also open to the public. It showcases Georgian architecture and beautiful antiques from the pre-revolutionary time. Also, near Bellamy Mansion on Market Street is the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, another rainy-day option.

Read More: 12 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Western North Carolina

3. Historic District in Downtown Wilmington

The historic district is a pretty area of 19th-century buildings in compact, walkable downtown Wilmington.

In fact, one of my favorite things to do in Wilmington is to walk around the historic center to discover its gorgeous architecture and cheerfully painted locally-owned shops and terrific Wilmington restaurants (and almost no national chains!). The vibe is funky Main Street, USA.

We also enjoyed the beautiful residential neighborhood just a short walking distance from the shops. Lush gardens surround gracious 19th-century wood and brick houses. Many of Wilmington’s Bed and Breakfast inns are located in this neighborhood and we stayed in two.

4. Ghost Walking Tour

T he Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington is a spooky walking tour of the historic district of downtown Wilmington. The tour took about an hour. Our guide walked us down dark creepy alleyways and to the 19th-century graveyard.

Along the way, he spun stories about ghosts that haunt this port city. Tickets are online.

5. Local Shops

Wilmington is proud of its entrepreneurs. And for good reason. Year-round, both the city and the riverwalk have fun shopping for crafts, clothes, toys and jewelry. Almost all are charming small stores that are the personal visions of their owners, a nice change of pace from big box stores.

For example, we stumbled upon a wonderful bookstore, Old Books on Front Street. This cavernous independent bookstore has used and new books of every kind. From toddlers to teens, people enjoy browsing books about fun things to do in Wilmington.

Nearby, the Cotton Exchange on Front Street has a cluster of 30 unique boutiques and restaurants located in eight historical buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

6. African American Heritage Walk

We took a self-guided walking tour of the Wilmington African-American heritage sites. For example, we visited churches, schools and a monument honoring the African-Americans killed in the 1898 violent overthrow of the city’s government. Also, we saw the location of the Black newspaper burned during the 1898 massacre. Still controversial, some call it the Wilmington Race Riot of 1898 . But others call it a coup.

We also visited the Burnett-Eaton Museum Foundation , open by appointment. The museum is clearly a labor of love, an idiosyncratic collection of artifacts about Wilmington’s tragic and inspiring racial history. A prominent African-American doctor, Foster Burnett, once lived in the house that is now the museum. And his son-in-law, Hubert Eaton, Sr., a doctor and civil rights leader, sued to integrate a hospital, schools and other institutions.

7. Nearby Beaches

Downtown Wilmington is an easy drive to gorgeous beaches like Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach. Grab a picnic and your swimsuit and enjoy a few hours of sea air, splashing in the surf and bare feet in the sand.

8. Airlie Gardens

Another easy excursion from Wilmington, North Carolina, is the 67-acre Airlie Gardens , a serene botanical garden. The bottle house structure pays tribute to Minnie Evans, a famous Wilmington artist and former gatekeeper at Airlie Gardens.

Everyone from little kids to grandparents will be drawn to the butterfly house. Even tweens and teens will enjoy the whimsical sculpture made out of colored bottles and concrete. It’s an Instagram dream. I was especially taken by the majesty of a 450-year-old tree, the Airlie Oak.

Check out the website for special season events and displays.

9. Fort Fisher Historic Site

Fort Fisher, in Kure Beach, is a quick 25-minute drive from Wilmington NC. The ruins of a Civil War Confederate fort are part of a park with wooden walking paths and spooky trees.

In addition, there are lovely views of marshland and Cape Fear River. The on-site museum makes this a year-round and rainy-day option for visitors.

10. Poplar Grove Plantation

This North Carolina plantation is about a 20-minute drive from Wilmington.

I was struck by the museum’s thoughtful explanations of slavery’s central place in the economy of the South and of this location in particular. For example, Poplar Grove Plantation researched the lives of several people enslaved by the Foy family. They tracked down descendants of the people enslaved by the Foy family, some still named Foy. Now that oral history is a core part of the plantation museum. This thoughtful exhibit, From Civil War to Civil Rights: The African American Experience at Poplar Grove , fills a room. Guides are available, but we opted for a self-guided tour.

Unlike the urban location of the antebellum Bellamy House, Poplar Grove Plantation was a working farm. The 15-acre grounds include a wooden shack where tenant farmers lived. Now, basket weavers offer on-site lessons.

Surprisingly, the grounds also include a type of animal park. We spent a fun hour with the friendly farmer, meeting gregarious goats, sheep, pigs and turkeys now living there. This is a fun place to visit with friends and family .

Also, on a few select days in the year, you can take a paranormal ghost tour. Check the website for exact dates.

12 responses

I Love to Visit “SISTA HATS “! They are located 208 S. Front Street in Downtown Wilmington! Classic, Unique, and FABULOUS HATS and FASCINATORS! A must go Place!

What a GREAT idea! sounds like so much fun.

When you visit Wilmington in the future, stop by the Wilmington Railroad Museum. Fascinating history and some great interactive railroad model layouts for children of all ages to interact with. We would love to have you visit.

We had so much fun in Wilmington, both exploring the historic city and waterfront, and also visiting the nearby beaches. We would happily return, and I love trains. Bet the train museum would be fun for both kids – and grown ups.

Willmington, a historic place i would say as this article is giving loads of history information. A wonderful place to be. The walks on the Riverwalk, Museums, Interior Designs, Heritage walks and the Horse Picture looks brilliant. Well Done!

We’d happily return to Wilmington, a fun town plus proximity to both beaches and the river. And I agree – fascinating history. In fact, I’m on a beach vacation right now, and I brought a history of Wilmington’s 1898 coup to read more about that history.

That is where I want to go, Riverwalk and cape fest river!!

North Carolina seems like lots of fun, Sarah! I hope to cross it off my bucket list soon!

Wilmington and its nearby beaches are a lot of fun. We are already planning a return visit, to spend more time exploring.

You’re right – I was sorry to miss the battleship. We are already planning a return visit to Wilmington, and that is on our list. And I agree about enslaved people – in fact, I am currently reading William Gould’s Diary of a Contraband, written while he served in the Union forces and published by his grandson, a Stanford Law professor.

Battleship exploration important too–such a different life’s experience than any I have had. So a appreciate the language “enslaved people” instead of writing “slaves.” This is a very definite distinction. Thanks to the writer and the destination.

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Wilmington, NC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of digidreamgrafix | Getty Images

7 Best Things To Do in Wilmington, NC

Updated March 15, 2022

The best things to do in Wilmington tend to revolve around the city's history and its waterways. For instance, this region – which was discovered by Giovanni da Verrazzano back in 1524 – boasts enough historical attractions to fill an entire

• All Things To Do

Wilmington's Riverwalk Wilmington's Riverwalk free

No trip to Wilmington is complete without a stroll along its mile-long Riverwalk. This wooden boardwalk that borders Cape Fear River is lined with popular restaurants and bars – and punctuated by stools and benches that are perfect for taking a break and taking in the scene. 

One traveler who praised the Riverwalk's views also recommended taking a water taxi to the Battleship North Carolina. Another traveler said the Riverwalk encapsulates the local culture, from the smell of the salty sea air to the surrounding history to the buzzy nightlife. 

Historic District Historic District free

The 230-plus blocks that comprise Wilmington's historic district are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and they contain everything from mansions to museums, as well as a host of restaurants and shops. One of the best ways to see the district's highlights is via a guided tour. Some traveler-approved operators include Haunted Wilmington and Wilmington Trolley Company . But you can also download the Wilmington.tours app to your smartphone, which includes four tours, including one with a pub crawl theme and another with a Civil War slant, if you'd rather take a self-guided tour. 

One visitor says it well when describing Wilmington as a "fascinating" but "under-appreciated" Southern city, citing the history that occurred on the port city's cobbled streets. Others say the historic district is charming and quaint, yet still feels cosmopolitan. 

Wrightsville Beach Wrightsville Beach free

Wrightsville Beach is located just 10 miles east of the Historic District, and it receives high praise for its wide ribbon of sand, which is easily accessible and lined by hotels, vacation homes, restaurants, bars and shops. There are even restrooms and showers at several beach-access points. Since the beach is situated several dozen miles from the Gulf Stream, it offers travelers warmer, almost transparent waters. 

Recent travelers hail Wrightsville Beach for its clean sands and peaceful ambiance. They also appreciated the lifeguards, though some warn the surf can be rough, especially in the hours after a storm. 

Popular Tours

Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise

(81 reviews)

from $ 21.00

Sunset Harbor Cruise Tour

(33 reviews)

from $ 50.00

Sunset Sail Tour

(72 reviews)

from $ 115.00

Airlie Gardens Airlie Gardens

Wilmington's 67-acre Airlie Gardens are enchanting. Not only do the gardens feature the flora and fauna native to this corner of North Carolina, they also contain a butterfly house and a tangle of footpaths ideal for a walk through the woods. Plus, a roster of special events further adds to Airlie's allure: For instance, in December, the gardens host a monthlong festival of lights; in the summer, there are concerts every other Friday. 

A recent visitor to Airlie Gardens says that its oak trees are among the most beautiful she's ever seen. Many travelers also highly recommend visiting when the gardens are hung with twinkle lights at Christmastime. Another great time to visit is during the spring, when the garden's many flowers are in bloom. 

Battleship North Carolina Battleship North Carolina

Back when Battleship North Carolina was commissioned in 1941, the ship was thought of as "the world's greatest sea weapon," and it turned out to be just that by participating in more than a dozen offensives in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. The ship was decommissioned in 1947 and was going to be sent for scrap metal but North Carolinians petitioned for the ship to be preserved as a museum – and in 1962, it was dedicated as just that. Today, visitors can tour the ship, all the while learning about the history of its veterans. 

Recent travelers call Battleship North Carolina a must-see for travelers of all ages. But it's important to note that the ship decks can get pretty hot, especially in the summer, and there are lots of stairs to traverse. Recent visitors also recommended arriving early in the day to avoid the midday heat and heaviest crowds. 

Bellamy Mansion Museum Bellamy Mansion Museum

From the mid-19th century until the mid-20th century, one of the largest slaveholders in the state – Dr. John Bellamy – his wife and 10 children lived in this stately 1800s-era Greek Revival mansion. The property contains 22 rooms, lush gardens and restored slave quarters – and today, knowledgeable tour guides give visitors a history of the family, the architecture and the enslaved people that worked on the property. Of the approximately 115 enslaved men, women and children that Bellamy owned, nine resided and worked at the property, according to historical documents.

Along with the entire mansion, travelers can tour the two-story brick slave quarters. Designed to complement the main house, the area includes four sleeping chambers, a laundry room and two five-seat privies. This style of housing for enslaved workers was once quite common in cities where slavery was legal. The structure that stands today – considered one of the best-preserved examples in the country – provides an interesting contrast to the small, rudimentary huts often seen on plantations.

Poplar Grove Plantation Poplar Grove Plantation

Poplar Grove Plantation is part of the National Park Service's Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, which runs from Wilmington in the north to Jacksonville, Florida , in the south. The Gullah Geechee are the descendants of Africans who were enslaved on the rice, indigo and Sea Island cotton plantations of the lower Atlantic coast. Along with their unique Creole language, the Gullah Geechee are known for their distinct arts, crafts, music, food and religious practices. You'll learn about the Gullah Geechee with a visit to Poplar Grove Plantation, formerly a sweet potato and peanut plantation.

Thanks to the agricultural skills of the Gullah Geechee, who worked on the plantation, the sweet potatoes and peanuts harvested were sold locally to planter families to supplement the diet of the enslaved. Aside from their agricultural contributions, the enslaved people that worked on the plantation also constructed the manor house that visitors see today. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the three-story manor house dates back to 1850. Also on-site are two heritage art studios (a basket gallery and a blacksmith shop), as well as an agriculture exhibit that displays a peanut thrasher and information on the production of peanuts. Families with kids may also be pleased to know that the on-site stables are home to a variety of pigs, goats, ducks, horses, sheep, cats, hens and roosters, representative of 19th-century farm life.

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25 of the Best Places To Visit in North Carolina

N orth Carolina is one of the best places to visit in the United States or even the entire world. You’ll find different landscapes, from beautiful coastal views at the Outer Banks to rolling peaks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Learn about North Carolina’s rich history or focus on vibrant, modern towns. Families, couples, friends, and even solo travelers will all make lasting memories. Explore the 25 best places to visit in North Carolina and plan your trip today.

1. Old Salem

Take a trip back in time and experience life during the 1700s and 1800s. Old Salem, North Carolina , is a National Historic Landmark and a historical reenactment of life in Winston-Salem during the 18th and 19th centuries. Actors and artisans fill the town to give a realistic look at the Moravian settlers of the past. Visitors can watch tradespeople go about their business and even try crafts for themselves.

2. Asheville

Located in western North Carolina, Asheville is a great place to visit. Asheville offers an eclectic mix of attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Natural trails are nearby, and the town’s vibrant art scene is always worth a visit. History fans will love visiting restored antique homes and buildings, here.

3. Charlotte

Racing and motorsports fans won’t want to miss Charlotte. The biggest city in North Carolina is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte Motor Speedway, and plenty of NASCAR race shops. Visitors can immerse themselves in racing history thanks to unique exhibits and films. Even if racing isn’t your passion, the town is still worth a visit. Charlotte offers delicious dining, beautiful tree-lined streets, historic neighborhoods, and more. 

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the country, with good reason.

The Great Smokies are part of the Appalachian mountains that run through most of the state. These mountains are relatively low, which makes them perfect for casual visitors. The rounded peaks have a soft blue color at sunset that inspired their name. Explore this beautiful park , the mountains, streams, forests, caves, wildlife, and 850 miles of trails.

5. Outer Banks

The Outer Banks barrier islands line the eastern coast of North Carolina. These islands are full of history: they were a favorite hiding place of the famous pirate Blackbeard, were home to the Lost Colony of Roanoke, and saw the Wright brothers’ first flight.

There’s still plenty to do without diving into history. The water is calm and beautiful since the barrier islands block the brunt of the Atlantic Ocean’s waves. Try birding, kayaking, swimming, and other peaceful outdoor activities.

6. Wilmington Beaches

Wilmington is located on the eastern side of North Carolina, where only a few islands separate the town from the ocean. One of the best things to do in Wilmington is explore the nearby beaches. Shell Island, Wrightsville Beach, and Masonboro Island are all easy to access. Wilmington is family-friendly, too, so you can feel comfortable bringing kids on your coastal North Carolina vacation.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile-long road stretching from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park into Virginia. The winding road isn’t the fastest way to travel, but it’s one of the most beautiful roads in the country. We suggest planning a trip during fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains light up in beautiful autumn reds, yellows, and oranges. Spring drives are also stunning when the rhododendrons and dogwood trees bloom.

8. Bald Head Island

Sick of your car? Visit Bald Head Island , where no cars are allowed! The island is only reachable by ferry or private boat. Visitors get around via golf cart, bike, or on foot. Life on the island is calm and relaxed as can be. Bald Head Island is home to 14 miles of beaches, a turtle conservation group, a golf course , and unique shops and restaurants.

9. Chimney Rock State Park

Located near Asheville, Chimney Rock State Park is one of the state’s newest investments. The destination was only authorized by North Carolina’s General Assembly in 2005. The main attraction is Chimney Rock, the formation that gives the park its name; it is is more than 300 feet tall! Climb to the top or take an elevator for breathtaking views of the valley below.

10. Hanging Rock State Park

North Carolina is the perfect place to visit if you like rock formations. Hanging Rock State Park is home to other fascinating rocks, ridges, and quartzite formations. Check out Devil’s Chimney and Hanging Rock, a large outcropping that inspired the park’s name.

Hanging Rock isn’t quite as tall as Chimney Rock, but it’s still worth the visit. You can also enjoy trails, cabins, camping, waterfalls, fishing, and swimming at this park.

11. Cape Lookout National Seashore

Cape Lookout is a collection of barrier islands off the North Carolina mainland. This federally protected area is mostly undeveloped, so you won’t find many tourist amenities there. Book a cabin or camp on the beach to stay overnight.

Even if you don’t like roughing it, Cape Lookout is a beautiful destination. There are more than 50 miles of untouched beaches to enjoy. Head south to see the seashore’s population of wild horses at Shackleford Bank.

12. Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, home to the University of North Carolina’s (UNC) Chapel Hill campus, is a must-see for anyone who wants the real Tar Heel experience. This college town buzzes with energy thanks to the centrally-located UNC campus. Football fans will love seeing the Carolina Tar Heels play on their home turf. After the game, you can explore the seemingly endless restaurants, cafes, pubs, shops, and art galleries there.

13. Pisgah National Forest

The Pisgah National Forest wraps around the north side of Asheville and includes more than 500,000 acres of land around the Blue Ridge Mountains. This federally-protected hardwood forest is home to yellow pines, mountain oaks, spruce firs, and other tree species. The forest is open for day use, like picnics, hiking, photography, and fishing. Reserve a campsite if you’d like to stay longer. 

The Pisgah National Forest includes the first land set aside as a national forest, so there’s plenty of history to explore.

14. Kitty Hawk

Kitty Hawk is a small town with an extensive history. Located in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk is famously where Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first powered airplane flight. The Wright brothers experimented at Kill Devil Hills, four miles away from town, but they were based in Kitty Hawk.

You can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills to trace the paths of these early flights, then return to Kitty Hawk to enjoy peaceful ocean views.

15. Discovery Place

Discovery Place in Charlotte, NC, is a science center the whole family will enjoy. This science museum features interactive exhibits, live shows, displays, and IMAX films. Visitors will discover activities for babies, adults, and everyone in between. There are several Discovery Place locations to explore, including children’s museums in Huntersville and Rockingham. Buy your tickets online to save $5 on admission.

16. Ocracoke Island

Ocracoke Island is another secret treasure tucked away in the Outer Banks barrier islands. You can only reach Ocracoke via ferry, which gives the island a calm, isolated feeling. Ocracoke is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful beach to relax on. You can enjoy pristine, beautiful shores without feeling crowded by other beachgoers. Bring a deck of cards, a favorite book, or a crafting project for easy entertainment on this low-key island. Ocracoke is reasonably priced, too.

17. Frasier’s Ridge (AKA Blowing Rock)

Calling all Outlander fans! Blowing Rock is the real-world equivalent of Jamie and Claire’s fictional North Carolina homestead. Located in the NC High Country, Blowing Rock features dramatic rolling mountains covered in beautiful trees, streams, and lakes. The area is similar to the Scottish Highlands, and it was a prime destination for Scottish immigrants in the 1700s. Take a trip to Blowing Rock to soak in this part of the state’s history, beauty, and romance.

18. US National Whitewater Center

Nature lovers and adrenaline seekers won’t want to miss the US National Whitewater Center. This world-class outdoor facility holds the biggest man-made whitewater rafting park in the world, but it’s much more than that. The Center is a non-profit organization that promotes active lifestyles, environmental stewardship, and family connections. Their Charlotte, NC, location offers more than 30 different activities, delicious food options, competitions, education, and advocacy.

19. Biltmore Estate

Asheville is a beautiful destination, but its Biltmore Estate is worth visiting. The Biltmore has 250 bedrooms, making it the largest home in the United States. The Vanderbilt family built the estate in 1895, and it’s been a top attraction ever since. There are several options for exploring the grounds, main building, and stunning Italianate decorations all year round, including festive seasonal displays. You can even book a stay overnight for the ultimate four-star experience.

20. Carowinds

The Carowinds amusement park is open year-round in Charlotte, NC. The park straddles the border between North and South Carolina so that you can scratch another state off your bucket list after your visit. The park has entertained Carolina residents and visitors since 1973. 

Carowinds is split into several themed sections, including a children’s area and water parks. You’ll enjoy classic rides like bumper cars, carousels, and mine-style coasters. The park also offers modern rides full of spins, inversions, and other hair-raising moves.

21. Raleigh

As North Carolina’s capital city, Raleigh is full of unique attractions. The State Capitol, State Legislative Building, and Executive Mansion are all in Raleigh. Book a tour to enjoy their beautiful classical architecture and see history in the making.

Raleigh is known as the “City of Oaks,” so wander the tree-lined streets, lush gardens, and plentiful greenways. Foodies will love the top-notch restaurant scene, too.

Durham is home to Duke University, but that’s not its only claim to fame. Durham is well-known in technical, medical, and academic circles as part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle. Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill have world-class hospitals, research institutions, and corporate headquarters. Durham has lots to do, even if you’re not traveling for business. It combines the classic charm of a college town with modern amenities like hotels, restaurants, bars, and parks.

23. Emerald Isle

Another Outer Banks gem, Emerald Isle, is like visiting several different islands at once. It is home to a range of unique coastal communities, each with its special vibe. You might find a creative artist’s cove in one small town, a fishing community in another, and a resort-like area in another.

Emerald Isle is perfect for visitors who want a more natural experience. The region doesn’t allow high-rise buildings to protect the environment and native creatures. This protection pays off every year when sea turtles come ashore to nest.

24. Lake Lure

North Carolina is a great destination for sea lovers but offers beautiful lakes. Lake Lure is tucked away in the North Carolina foothills, almost like a private escape. Stunning mountain views surround the serene blue waters. It’s the perfect area for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterspouts. You can look for waterfront rental properties among the lake houses or visit the public park and waterpark during summer.

25. Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Finally, you don’t want to miss the Carolina Beach Boardwalk outside of Wilmington. Carolina Beach has plenty of beach activities like body boarding, swimming, making sandcastles, and waterspouts. Carolina Beach State Park is just around the corner, too. The famous boardwalk offers rides, arcades, biking, restaurants, and adult destinations like beer gardens and Tiki bars. You’ll enjoy a classic beachside vacation at the Carolina Boardwalk!

Get Ready To Fall in Love With North Carolina

North Carolina is one of the top destinations in the country. You know a state is unique when it offers diverse landscapes, attractions, and experiences.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature, explore unique towns, discover our nation’s history, or enjoy time off, North Carolina is perfect for your next vacation. Check out your favorite ideas and start planning your dream trip today!

More from Wealth of Geeks

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Hidden Sanctuaries & Gems in Wilmington, NC

Stray off the beaten path.

From the city to the sea, Wilmington and its beaches are rich with hidden gems and sanctuaries beyond the bustling Riverwalk . Stray off course and explore unexpected areas of this coastal destination, from quiet gardens to historic sites. Whether you’re a first-time or repeat visitor, find your special oasis in Wilmington at one of these local spots.

Peaceful Gardens

Historic sites, island beaches.

Find tranquility in Airlie Gardens ’ 67-plus acres of formal gardens and walking trails, 10 acres of lakes, the majestic Airlie Oak (which sprouted in 1545) and hundreds of species of local flora and fauna. Open year-round, Airlie Gardens features a number of hidden oases and structures like the Minnie Evans Glass Bottle House. The whimsical “chapel” was created with hundreds of colored glass bottles, butterflies and shapes surrounding a tree sculpture. Visit the Tranquility Garden’s seasonally open Butterfly House to see species like Monarch, Giant Swallowtail, Gulf Fritillary and others – all native to North Carolina – fluttering within this open-air structure.

Tucked away along the Gary Shell Cross-City Trail , the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden  features a concrete walking trail, wooden observation deck and a collection of native carnivorous flora such as pitcher plants and Venus flytraps, which only grow naturally within a 75- to 100-mile radius of Wilmington. Within the ADA-accessible passive park, the garden is open daily and is protected by a conservation easement held by the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust.

Visit the New Hanover County Arboretum  and find renewal in 7 acres of community gardens. This outdoor sanctuary is replete with lush landscapes, flowering plants and bushes and one of the largest water gardens in the state. Stroll along paved pathways to discover unique vignettes, including a water garden with hundreds of colorful Koi, catfish and lilies, a Japanese garden with an authentic tea house and vibrant Japanese maples. Little ones will enjoy a children’s garden and cozy cottage. The Contemplation Garden honors the five branches of the military. The Ability Garden is specially designed to provide opportunities for people of all levels of ability to enjoy gardening. The arboretum is free to visit and open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk.

Take a step into the past with a tour of the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens . A superb example of Georgian architecture, the circa-1770 residence is graced with seven separate Colonial-style garden areas, including an orchard with figs and pomegranates, a crabapple espalier and a parterre with trimmed boxwood. Go your own pace on a self-guided tour of all the gardens, which are open year-round to the public.

One of the most beautiful and historic theaters in America, Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts is home to the oldest painted stage curtain in the country. Now hanging in the ground floor lobby of Thalian Hall’s main stage, the original drop curtain was painted by Russell Smith and hung onstage when the historic theater opened in 1858. The facility, which has been in continuous operation for more than 160 years, hosts more than 500 performance events annually and conducts behind-the-scenes tours with advance registration highlighting the stories and history of Thalian Hall.

Visit North Carolina’s oldest rural cemetery, Oakdale Cemetery , located near downtown. The eloquent epitaphs and symbolic funerary art bring to life the stories of those who lie beneath. The cemetery’s year-round blooming plants are especially resplendent in the spring. On a self-led tour or a guided walking tour with Tour Old Wilmington , visit notable markers, like a Confederate Mound that serves as a burial site for more than 367 unknown soldiers killed during the Civil War. See the graves of North Carolina’s first governor Honorable Edward B. Dudley, and Confederate secret agent Mrs. Rose O’Neal Greenhow. You’ll also find the grave of broadcast journalism pioneer David Brinkley, best known as co-host for NBC’s nightly Huntley-Brinkley Report.

The Battle of Forks Road in February 1865 marked a pivotal moment in Wilmington's history. On the current grounds of Cameron Art Museum (CAM), the United States Colored Troops (USCT) successfully defeated the Confederate Army, leading to Union control of Wilmington. To honor the USCT and their fight for freedom, CAM worked with North Carolina artist Stephen Hayes to create Boundless. This life-size bronze sculpture features 11 USCT soldiers, and Hayes cast USCT descendants, reenactors, veterans and local community leaders to create the likenesses. Boundless serves as the centerpiece of the museum’s USCT Park , the only park in the nation built to honor the USCT and their fight for freedom.

Wilmington’s nearby island beaches also hold a bounty of lesser-known gems. From serene oceanfront parks to barrier islands and reserves, explore hidden seaside sanctuaries at Carolina Beach , Kure Beach  and Wrightsville Beach .

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