Wilmington is a coastal gem with something for everyone, from natural beauty and rich history to iconic attractions and activities. Here's how everyone from toddlers to adults can make the most of their trip.
Activities for Kids
Wilmington brings history to life with attractions that are as entertaining as they are educational. Climb aboard the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA and step back in time to World War II. Kids will love navigating the tight corridors and towering decks, while the adults with them gain insight into naval history.
Airlie Gardens is another all-ages favorite. This 67-acre site features shady walking paths, seasonal blooms and whimsical art installations. Guided history and pollinator walks provide deeper insight into the garden's horticulture and ecology. From June through September, native North Carolina butterflies flutter through the open-air structure of the Butterfly House.
The New Hanover County Arboretum provides another peaceful retreat with a Japanese garden, authentic tea house and koi pond. Its children's garden – designed for ages 2 to 6 – offers hands-on play with balance beams, thunder drums and chalkboards.
Train lovers and young children will especially enjoy the Wilmington Railroad Museum, where model trains, full-size locomotives and interactive displays combine fun and nostalgia. Little ones will love a trip to the Children’s Museum of Wilmington for interactive exhibits designed for pre-school and elementary-aged kids and their adults. The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science features a range of hands-on exhibits, from a 20-foot ground sloth replica to a tribute to Wilmington native Michael Jordan.
Entertaining Teens and Tweens
There are also plenty of opportunities for teens and tweens to burn energy with some friendly competition or thrill-seeking. All ages are welcome at Pickle & Taps, which offers eight standard and two championship pickleball courts. After a game or two, the adults of the group can enjoy a cold beverage from the bar, serving local beer and snacks.
For a brain-teasing experience, try Game Over Escape Rooms. Each themed room presents a different mystery to solve using teamwork and logic.
If you're looking to go sky-high while staying indoors, iFly Wilmington delivers the thrill of skydiving in a controlled wind tunnel. Flyers must be at least 3 years old, and minors need a parent or guardian to sign a waiver.
A visit to Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park is also a must with water slides, go-karts, laser tag, mini golf and an arcade. It's a one-stop shop for nonstop fun.
Fun for Grown-Ups
Wilmington's location along the Cape Fear River means nature is all around. At the heart of the city, Greenfield Park spans 190 acres with biking and walking trails, a playground, tennis and pickleball courts and a skate park. Visitors can rent two- or four-seat paddleboats at the boathouse to explore Greenfield Lake, winding through cypress trees and spotting turtles, ducks and herons along the way.
To explore Wilmington's natural surroundings from the water, hop aboard a scenic cruise with Wilmington Water Tours. Its Eagle Island and Black Water Adventure cruises highlight the region's distinctive ecology and landscape. The Henrietta – Wilmington's largest tour boat, operated by Cape Fear River Boats – also hosts narrated sightseeing cruises along the Cape Fear River.
For a charming way to explore Historic Downtown, Springbrook Farms offers horse-drawn carriage tours led by rescued Percheron horses. Departing from Market and Water streets, these tours provide a relaxing look at the city's past.
Did you know Wilmington is one of the most haunted cities in the South? The Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington features family-friendly walking tours to some of the city's haunted spots. Don't worry – the tours aren't too scary, and are suitable for kids and adults alike.
Eats Approved by All
Finding restaurants that satisfy everyone, from kiddos that are picky eaters to adults with adventurous appetites, is easy in Wilmington. For a fun and casual waterfront meal, Anne Bonny's Bar and Grill, a floating restaurant on the Cape Fear River, is a favorite. Adults can enjoy frozen cocktails and sunset views, while kids will love the novelty of dining directly on the water.
Craving tacos? Head to BLOcKTACO, a walk-up connected to Satellite Bar and Lounge in the South Front District. It’s outdoor setting allows kids to play while grown-ups kick back. Benny's Big Time Pizzeria delivers classic pies alongside more inventive options in a lively, family-friendly setting.
CheeseSmith takes grilled cheese to the next level with gourmet versions of the comfort food staple – everything from the classic with American cheese to the "Figgie Smalls" with goat cheese, fig jam, caramelized onions and arugula. Kids will love the “Mac Momma thanks to a filling featuring three-cheese mac-and-cheese.
When it's time for something sweet, stop by Lazy Jack's Ice Cream Shack along the Riverwalk for classic soft-serve treats. Boombalatti's Homemade Ice Cream is known for its 26 rotating flavors, while GelaRto serves up 40 varieties of Italian gelato, sorbet and more. For baked goods, specifically donuts, head to Wake N Bake, a local favorite known for its creative confections.
Places to Stay
Wilmington features a wide range of accommodations perfect for all ages. For a unique stay, book a floating villa at The Cove Riverwalk Villas. These houseboats blend comfort and charm with scenic views and space for up to six.
Prefer to stay on land? Several full-service hotels are conveniently located along the Riverwalk in historic downtown. Hotel Ballast, part of the Hilton Tapestry Collection, combines modern amenities and local character with riverfront views and an outdoor pool. Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront features spacious rooms, an indoor pool and a rooftop bar overlooking the Cape Fear River.
Whether you're exploring gardens, diving into history or finding fun for all, Wilmington is an ideal destination for every age. Discover more experiences everyone will enjoy in nearby Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach.
