Wilmington has a little bit of everything, and you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy it. Explore miles of trails, stroll the Wilmington Riverwalk or take self-guided tours of the city’s history.Visit downtown galleries like the Cameron Art Museum to see works by artists from around the world, or check out filming locations from popular TV shows like “One Tree Hill” or “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” With outdoor adventures, history, arts, local events and more, Wilmington has plenty to see and do on any budget.

 

For the Nature Explorer  

Bring a bike (or rent one) and ride the 11-mile River to Sea Bikeway from the Wilmington Riverwalk to Wrightsville Beach. Or, bike the 15-mile Gary Shell Cross-City Trail, which winds through parks, cultural sites and along the Intracoastal Waterway.

If you’d rather stay closer to downtown, grab an affordable coffee drink to-go from Luna Caffe or Port City Java and stroll around the lake at Greenfield Park. Or, bring a chair to Trails End Park and watch the sun set over the Masonboro Sound.

For the Hollywood Fanatic

Wilmington has a long history as a filming hub, and self-guided walking tours make it easy to relive your favorite scenes. Check out “Tree Hill High School” (Cape Fear Community College) and “Karen’s Café” (Dough House Pizza Co.) from “One Tree Hill.” If you’re into “Dawson’s Creek,” snap a picture by “Joey’s Wall” at the Reel Cafe, then head to “The Creek” found at Bradley Creek.

You may also recognize Wilmington as the real-life backdrop for “Cousin’s Beach” in “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Browse Papercut Books, a.k.a. “Whale of a Tale” bookstore, or split a pie at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria, where Belly and Stephen caught up in Season 3. Visit this guide for even more filming locations from the hit series.

To plan a full set-jetting weekend, take a look at this three-day itinerary.

For the Art Connoisseur 

Spend an afternoon at the Cameron Art Museum, where admission is $10 or less. You’ll find a mix of historical and modern pieces, plus seasonal exhibits, hands-on installations and a sculpture and park dedicated to the U.S. Colored Troops.

On the fourth Friday of every month, downtown galleries open late for Fourth Friday Gallery Nights. Between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., wander through special exhibits, meet local artists and enjoy free refreshments.

For the History Buff

Walk along the SECU Memorial Walkway, a half-mile boardwalk honoring World War II veterans from all branches of the military located near the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA. You’ll get a front-seat view of the historical 1930s battleship, minus the cost of admission.

Then download Wilmington’s eTours app and try out the free self-guided mini-tour of Historic Downtown Wilmington. Wander through downtown and stop by the city’s top historical attractions. Check the app for stories and background info about each of the historical sites you visit.

For the Window Shopper

Explore the 2-mile Wilmington Riverwalk and take in scenic views of the Cape Fear River. Hop in and out of markets and boutiques that line the walkway, then stop by Kilwin's Chocolates, Fudge & Ice Cream to share a sweet treat. For more window shopping fun, head to the Cotton Exchange or Chandler’s Wharf in downtown Wilmington, or visit one of the city’s other unique districts, like the Brooklyn Arts District or Cargo District. 

Spend Saturday morning at the Wilmington Farmers Market at Tidal Creek, a weekly, year-round market featuring the goods of local farmers, artists and crafters. Check the market’s social media pages for upcoming special events, including live music and local chef demos.

For more ideas, check out more free and affordable activities at our island beaches: