Wilmington is the perfect destination for a spring break filled with adventure, history and family-friendly fun. Here are 10 ways to make the most of your spring break in Wilmington.
1. Explore the Riverwalk – Take a family stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk, a nearly 2-mile scenic walkway along the Cape Fear River. Stop for a bite at an outdoor café or treat the kids to ice cream at GelaRto or Kilwins. At the north end, Riverfront Park offers plenty of waterfront green space for kids to burn off extra energy.
2. Cruise and Sightsee – Hop aboard a cruise with Cape Fear River Boats or Wilmington Water Tours to see Wilmington from a different vantage point: on the water. From educational nature tours or eco-tours to relaxing sunset cruises and more, there is an adventure perfect for every type of family.
3. Step Back in Time – Climb aboard the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, a historic World War II battleship where families can explore the deck, get a glimpse of life on board and learn about the ship’s role in naval history. The ship participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific and earned 15 battle stars. Take a self-guided tour or reserve a 90-minute guided tour online. If you are traveling from the Riverwalk to the Battleship, hop aboard the Bizzy Bee Water Taxi, which stops at each of its landings on the Cape Fear River at least once per hour.
4. Take in Spring Blooms – Spring is the perfect time to visit Airlie Gardens, where families can stroll through vibrant floral displays, spot butterflies in the pollinator garden and marvel at the centuries-old Airlie Oak. At New Hanover County Arboretum, explore seasonal gardens, a koi pond, a Japanese garden with an authentic tea house and a children's garden with a play area. For something truly unique, visit the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, where you'll find native flora such as Venus flytraps and pitcher plants in their natural habitats.
5. Visit Local Museums – For hands-on learning and play, head to the Children's Museum of Wilmington, where interactive exhibits explore everything from art and science to cooking and conservation. At the Wilmington Railroad Museum, kids can see model trains in action, explore a life-size caboose and ring the bell of a 100-year-old steam locomotive. The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, North Carolina's oldest museum, highlights the region's history with exhibits on everything from Michael Jordan's Wilmington roots to a 20-foot-tall ground sloth replica.
6. Paddle Around – Embark on an eco-kayak tour with Wilmington Outdoor Adventures, paddling through local waterways to Shark Tooth Island in search of shark teeth and fossils. For a freshwater adventure, rent a kayak from the boat house at Greenfield Park and paddle across the cypress-lined lake, home to turtles, birds and other wildlife.
7. Bring Outdoor Voices Indoors – Families can enjoy some friendly competition at Battle House Laser Tag, a 10,000-square-foot facility featuring high-tech equipment and an urban-style battlefield with two-story buildings, alleyways and more. Special game times for kids under 10 allow younger family members to enjoy the action. Burn off energy at one of Wilmington's trampoline parks: Sky Zone Wilmington or Flip N Fly. For thrill-seekers, experience indoor skydiving at the new iFly Wilmington, where kids as young as 3 can safely "fly" in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel with guidance from certified instructors. Jungle Rapids, a family entertainment center, features an indoor rock-climbing wall, mini bowling, laser tag, an arcade and an indoor jungle play area for kids ages 6 to 8.
8. Chow Down – Wilmington is home to many family-friendly dining spots that make mealtime enjoyable and delicious for kids of all ages. For a lively and casual experience, Fork N Cork offers gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries, while Mess Hall specializes in creative smash burgers and crispy tater tots that kids love. Elijah's Oyster & Fish Camp and Pilot House serve delicious seafood and kid-friendly options in casual settings on the Riverwalk. If you're in the mood for pizza, Benny's Big Time Pizzeria serves classic wood-fired pies, including the Kevin McCallister, a traditional cheese pizza topped with hot honey.
9. Find the Perfect Place to Stay – Wilmington offers several kid-friendly places to stay, making it easy for families to enjoy their time together. Hotel Ballast, located along the Cape Fear River, provides a spacious and comfortable setting with a pool and access to the Wilmington Riverwalk. Further down the Riverwalk, Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront offers large suites and a complimentary breakfast, ideal for families who need extra room and convenience. Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center boasts pet-friendly accommodations and a pool, making it great for the entire family. For a more budget-friendly option, Tru by Hilton Wilmington also offers complimentary breakfast and a pool table in the lobby.
10. Discover Three Island Beaches – Find more family-friendly spring break adventures just minutes away at Wilmington’s nearby island beaches: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach. Stroll through Carolina Beach, where a colorful vintage boardwalk invites you to explore local shops, savor fresh seafood and enjoy classic arcade fun. Find tranquility in Kure Beach, home to the newly renovated Fort Fisher State Historic Site, which provides an opportunity to step back in time to the Civil War’s largest land and sea battle. For adventure seekers, Wrightsville Beach offers crystal blue waters perfect for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking, among other water activities.
With its mix of outdoor adventure, history and family-friendly attractions, Wilmington is the perfect destination for an unforgettable spring break. Whether you're paddling along scenic waterways, stepping back in time on a battleship or exploring vibrant gardens, Wilmington offers countless ways to create lasting family memories.
