About Wilmington, NC

From the Riverwalk skirting the storied Cape Fear River to the modern facilities remaking the riverfront’s skyline, Wilmington, NC is a must-see Southern destination that rivals Charleston and Savannah in its charm and history. Explore Wilmington’s riverfront, historic neighborhoods and everything in between during a getaway filled with endless vacation choices.

Historic Downtown Wilmington & River District
Music & Nightlife
Drinks & Cuisine
Historic Tours & Cruises
Arts, Culture & Theater
Parks & Gardens
Midtown

Carriage ride through historic district

Historic Downtown Wilmington & River District

Spend time in Wilmington’s sprawling River District, which features both historic architecture and city-style modern attractions. Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk and tour the 230-plus-block National Register Historic District. Lined with moss-draped live oaks, the Historic District is one of largest and most picturesque of its kind in the South. The River District is a distinctive slice of Wilmington, paying tribute to the past and the future by also showcasing modern architecture in the north end, along with new hotels, restaurants, a performing arts center, a waterfront park and amphitheater and more.

Discover the River District

Music & Nightlife

Embrace the city’s vibrant energy in lively music and nightlife settings, including two waterfront concert venues hosting notable regional and national acts. Enjoy year-round laughs at a full-time comedy club with new acts nearly every night. Attend various summer concert series, such as those held in premier Southern gardens and on the grounds of a 19th-century mansion.

Experience Music & More

Drinks & Cuisine

Take in waterfront views as you dine on fresh local seafood and regional specialties at locally owned restaurants – and discover why Yelp named Wilmington a “Top Foodie City.” Follow the Wilmington Ale Trail to find more than 20 craft breweries and bottleshops, and sip craft cocktails in a speakeasy or on a rooftop bar overlooking the river.

Savor Local Flavor

Tours & Cruises

See the city on guided tours, ranging from haunted or historic walks to horse-drawn carriage or trolley rides. Board Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, where the distinguished service and sacrifice of sailors live on. Take in breathtaking views from the water on riverboat or catamaran cruises.

Embark on Tours & Cruises

Dawson's Creek Films at Aquarium

Arts, Culture & Theater

Enrich your artistic spirit through film festivals and museum exhibitions. With a favorable mild climate, varied landscapes and spectacular architecture, it’s easy to see why Hollywood filmmakers have logged more than 400 film-related credits in the area, a testament to our independent, creative spirit. Enjoy a mix of modern museums, local art galleries, performing arts venues and historic sites that contribute to the vibrant arts and culture scene.

Find Your Muse

Wilmington Municipal Golf Course

Midtown

Moving from downtown Wilmington to Midtown, discover more experiences to enhance your getaway. For an action-packed day, visit Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, featuring a wave pool, speed slides, lazy river and more, along with miniature golf, go-karts, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall and an arcade. Tee off at the Donald Ross-designed Wilmington Municipal Golf Course. Browse the boutiques at Lumina Station, then relax at a café or French-inspired eatery amid the village’s whimsical sculptures and storybook bridges. Enjoy Mayfaire Town Center, a hub of brand name and indie shops, restaurants and the best of cinema at Regal Mayfaire Stadium 16 and IMAX.