Wilmington, North Carolina, is a vibrant port city situated on the banks of the Cape Fear River. The city is home to a variety of attractions, from historical sites to beautiful beaches. With its charming downtown, unique shopping and dining experiences, and outdoor adventures, Wilmington is an ideal destination for visitors looking for an unforgettable experience.
The city's rich history is evident throughout the downtown area, which is home to the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial, the Bellamy Mansion, and the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts. The Wilmington Riverwalk, an expansive boardwalk along the Cape Fear River, provides stunning views of the waterfront and is lined with quaint shops and eateries.
Just outside of the city, visitors can explore the beauty of North Carolina's beaches, which range from the popular Wrightsville Beach, to the secluded Figure Eight Island. Those looking for a more active outdoor experience can take advantage of the trails, kayaking, and fishing opportunities along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Wilmington is also known as a foodie destination, with an array of locally-owned restaurants, breweries, and wineries. From the downtown river district to the nearby Carolina Beach Boardwalk, visitors will find something to enjoy in Wilmington. From its unique attractions to its stunning scenery, Wilmington is an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Wilmington: Located at the heart of the city, Downtown Wilmington offers a vibrant nightlife, a variety of restaurants, and plenty of shopping and entertainment options. It's also home to the historic Wilmington Riverwalk, offering scenic views of the Cape Fear River.
2. Carolina Beach: This beach town is just a short drive south of Wilmington. Carolina Beach offers plenty of beach activities, including surfing, fishing, and swimming. The boardwalk is a popular spot for strolling and has ample restaurants, shops, and arcades.
3. Wrightsville Beach: Located just east of downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers. This area offers a wide variety of activities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars.
4. Mayfaire: This shopping center is located in northwest Wilmington and features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's a great spot for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
5. Ogden: Ogden is a small, historic neighborhood located just north of downtown Wilmington. This area features a mix of old and new architecture, as well as plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
1. The Cape Fear Riverwalk: The Cape Fear Riverwalk is a scenic boardwalk along the riverfront of downtown Wilmington. It is lined with shops, restaurants, historical sites, and live music venues.
2. Historic Downtown Wilmington: Downtown Wilmington is filled with beautiful historic homes, churches, and other buildings that date back to the 1800s. Visitors can take a walking tour to learn more about the area's history and architecture.
3. Battleship North Carolina: The Battleship North Carolina is a World War II-era battleship that is now open for public tours. Visitors can explore the decks, turrets, and other areas of the ship and get a firsthand look at its history.
4. Airlie Gardens: Airlie Gardens is a 67-acre public garden and nature preserve with a variety of plants, flowers, and trails. There are also educational programs and events offered throughout the year.
5. Carolina Beach: Carolina Beach is a popular beach destination located just south of Wilmington. It features miles of white sand beaches, fishing piers, and an array of restaurants and shops.
1. Shrimp and Grits: A classic dish of the south, this dish features creamy cheese grits topped with succulent shrimp and flavorful seasonings.
2. Fish Tacos: Freshly caught fish is cooked and served in warm tortillas, topped with a variety of garnishes such as cabbage, pico de gallo, and avocado.
3. Carolina BBQ: Slow-cooked pork shoulder is smoked over a wood fire, then served with a tangy sauce and coleslaw.
4. Soul Food: A variety of Southern favorites such as collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and fried chicken.
5. Cheesesteaks: The classic Pennsylvania sandwich, made with thinly-sliced steak and melted cheese on a warm bun.