fun things to do in wilmington nc

Wilmington, NC, is a charming coastal city with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Here are some fun things to do in Wilmington, NC:

1. Visit the Riverwalk: This 1.5-mile boardwalk along the Cape Fear River is perfect for a leisurely stroll, jog, or bike ride. You’ll find shops, restaurants, and galleries along the way.
2. Beach Day: Wilmington has several beautiful beaches, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Figure Eight Island. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, or simply relaxing.
3. Bellamy Mansion Museum: Explore this stunning antebellum mansion, which features an impressive collection of art and antiques.
4. Screen Gems Tour: Wilmington is known as the "Hollywood East" due to its thriving film industry. Take a guided tour to see locations from popular movies and TV shows, such as "One Tree Hill" and "Iron Man 3."
5. Cape Fear Museum: Learn about the region’s history, science, and culture at this engaging museum, which features exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to the Civil War.
6. Airlie Gardens: These beautiful gardens feature over 67 acres of walking trails, gardens, and scenic views. It’s a great place to relax and connect with nature.
7. Wilmington Historic District: Take a self-guided tour of this charming neighborhood, which features beautiful historic homes, churches, and buildings.
8. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts: Catch a show or concert at this historic theater, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
9. Cape Fear Riverboats: Take a scenic cruise along the Cape Fear River and enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding wetlands.
10. Front Street Brewery: Sample local craft beers and enjoy live music at this popular brewery, which also serves up delicious pub fare.
11. Wrightsville Beach Water Sports: Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis and enjoy some adventure on the water.
12. Carolina Beach Boardwalk: This classic beachside boardwalk features shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides, including a historic Ferris wheel.
13. Fort Fisher State Historic Site: Learn about the Civil War and the role of Fort Fisher in the conflict at this historic site, which features a museum and reconstructed fort.
14. Wilmington Farmers Market: Every Saturday, the Wilmington Farmers Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
15. Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington: Explore the city’s spooky side on a guided ghost tour, which features haunted sites and eerie tales.

These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Wilmington, NC. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal city.