Duration: 3 Days

Available: Year-round

Discover the charm of Wilmington, North Carolina, with this three-day itinerary that blends history, adventure and coastal experiences. Stroll through brick-lined streets in the Historic District, cruise the Cape Fear River and explore lush gardens and local art spaces. From iconic landmarks like the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA to vibrant dining and nightlife, this guide highlights the best of Wilmington for a memorable adults-only getaway.

Day 1: Historic Sights and River Vibes

Drop off your bags at ARRIVE Wilmington

Check in at ARRIVE Wilmington, a stylish hotel in the heart of downtown. Its boutique style, cozy courtyard and walkable location make it perfect for adults looking to blend history, nightlife and relaxation.

Morning
Morning Activity: Explore Wilmington’s Historic District
Take a step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour through Wilmington’s Historic District, led by knowledgeable guides and pulled by rescued Percheron draft horses from Springbrook Farms. Glide past stately mansions, learn about the city’s fascinating history and hear stories of the notable figures who have called Wilmington home.

Afternoon
Lunch at Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp
Settle in on one of the largest porches along Wilmington’s Riverwalk at Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp, a go-to spot for fresh fish and seafood since 1984. Enjoy lunch with craft cocktails, raw bar selections and shareable plates - all while taking in sweeping views of the Cape Fear River.

Afternoon Activity: Visit the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA
Step aboard the iconic Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, a World War II vessel that now serves as a floating museum and national historic landmark. Wander through nine levels of decks, living quarters, engine rooms and gun turrets, where immersive exhibits and original artifacts bring the stories of sailors and wartime history to life. The ship’s vantage points also offer striking views back across the river to downtown Wilmington. Take the Bizzy Bee Water Taxi from Market Street for a scenic glide along the Cape Fear River before stepping onto this remarkable piece of American history.

Evening
Dinner at Floriana
Floriana specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, with handmade pasta crafted daily from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Stop by the lounge for a drink or small bite, dine upstairs in the main room or enjoy a full-service meal on the Romeo and Juliet balconies. With its intimate spaces and refined menu, Floriana is perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory night out.

Evening Activity: Night cap at Bourgie Nights
Wrap your evening with live music and craft cocktails at Bourgie Nights, a lively downtown spot perfect for a fun night out. Operated by neighboring, internationally recognized manna ave. 123, the bar serves craft cocktails, beer, wine and casual “blue-collar” drinks. With state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment, the venue offers a space to discover new music and enjoy unique live performances.

 

Day 2: Gardens, Brews & Historic Charm

Morning

Breakfast at Blueberry’s Grill
Located in Lumina Station, Blueberry’s Grill is a great way to kick off the day, offering something for every palate. Start the day with modern takes on classics like crab cake Benedict, seafood omelets or the Jungle Isle skillet with corned beef hash, mushrooms, jalapeños, cheddar-jack cheese and avocado cream. Sweet options include cinnamon roll French toast and blueberry hushpuppies. Pair your plate with a mimosa or specialty coffee for a grown-up breakfast worth savoring.

Morning Activity: Stroll through Airlie Gardens
Begin your day with a tranquil walk through Airlie Gardens, a 67-acre oasis filled with centuries-old live oaks, freshwater lakes and seasonal blooms. Outdoor sculptures and rotating art installations add a creative touch, while landmarks like the 467-year-old Airlie Oak and the Pergola Garden provide a sense of timeless beauty.

Afternoon
Lunch at Ponysaurus Brewing Co.
Take a break at Ponysaurus Brewing Co., where inventive craft beers pair perfectly with a full in-house menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and shareable plates. Sample rotating taps that range from crisp lagers to bold IPAs in the expansive beer garden and soak up the laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

Afternoon Activity: Tour Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Take a tour of the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens, a historic downtown home surrounded by over an acre of beautifully landscaped colonial-style gardens. Explore seven distinct garden areas, each offering a unique perspective on Wilmington’s history and design. The combination of architecture and greenery creates a serene yet enriching experience, perfect for adults who appreciate history and beauty in equal measure.

Evening
Dinner at Seabird
Enjoy dinner in historic downtown Wilmington at Seabird, where James Beard semifinalist Dean Neff and award-winning pastry chef Lydia Clopton showcase North Carolina’s coastal flavors. Seafood is the star of the menu, but thoughtful dishes for vegans and meat-eaters alike are also available. Finish your meal with Clopton’s iconic desserts, from coffee cake and fruit crostadas to made-to-order biscuits with fried chicken and pimento cheese.

Evening Activity: Enjoy live music at The Underfront
Experience Wilmington’s nightlife with live music and performances at The Underfront, a stylish cocktail bar known for its extensive, craft-forward cocktail menu. Sip on creative libations while enjoying live music and performances from local talent in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, perfect for capping off an evening downtown.

 

Day 3: River Views & Creative Finds

Morning
Breakfast at The Basics
Fuel up with hearty breakfast options and locally inspired dishes at The Basics, located in the Cotton Exchange. Since 2007, the restaurant has celebrated the culinary history of the South, blending African, French and Native American flavors in classic dishes like pimento cheese, fried okra and smoked chicken. Dine inside or on the covered patio for a casual, flavorful start to your day.

Morning Activity: Cape Fear River Boats Sightseeing Cruise
Step aboard the Henrietta, part of Wilmington’s oldest continuously operating cruise company, for a scenic sightseeing tour of the Cape Fear River. The climate-controlled lower deck and open-air upper observation deck provide comfort and views year-round, while the full bar keeps refreshments close at hand. A cocktail and the river breeze make this sightseeing cruise a quintessential grown-up adventure.

Afternoon
Lunch at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria
Grab a slice (or two) of wood-fired Neapolitan pizza in a fun, casual environment in South Front District near historic downtown before your final afternoon of exploration. It’s no wonder this gem was featured on Southern Living’s Top 13 Things to Eat list even before opening. Pair your pie with a local beer or glass of wine for a simple, yet satisfying lunch.

Afternoon Activity: Experience theArtWorks
End your getaway at this community art space, featuring local artists, exhibitions and interactive workshops. It’s the perfect spot to admire creativity and take home unique souvenirs from your weekend excursion.

 

Departure

From carriage rides and riverfront cocktails to chef-driven dinners and live music, Wilmington offers grown-up travelers an escape that blends history, culture and indulgence.