Wilmington

Travel Guide
Wilmington showing a fountain
Climb aboard a World War II battleship in this port city and catch a show at a theatre 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 Cape Fear River, 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
The price is S$151 per night from 19 May to 20 May
S$151
per night
19 May - 20 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 our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"It was good & the employees welcome me"

Reviewed on 29 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
The price is S$219 per night from 27 May to 28 May
S$219
per night
27 May - 28 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! (1,000 reviews)
"We had the same assistant to check us in and out. I can’t remember her name but she was so sweet and helpful. The bed was so comfortable and the shower was great!! Perfect place to stay!!"

Reviewed on 28 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 S$193 per night from 15 May to 16 May
S$193
per night
15 May - 16 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 ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
"First hotel we have stayed in that said that the hotel and grounds were a non-smoking facility and it truly was. Hotel is an older building but the operators have done a very nice good keeping it up with renovations."

Reviewed on 29 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! (176 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! (22 reviews)
Everything was excellent!
"Loved everything about this place. It was very clean and had everything we needed. The location was great and very safe. Easy check-in and great communication. HIGHLY recommend!"

Reviewed on 29 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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