In a tucked away beach town on the southern coast of North Carolina, Wilmington has quickly become a frequent destination for tourists and neighboring-town folk alike. This port city, known as the gateway to Cape Fear, offers picturesque beaches, a darling downtown area, and tidbits of history weaved throughout the city. While Wilmington offers a variety of classic tourist spots like the Battleship North Carolina and the Riverwalk, you can also find local spots that aren’t on the radar but are highly entertaining.

Start with a meal at the Shuckin’ Shack in Wilmington’s Historic District which offers a shellfish-centric menu with plenty of oysters, beer, and corn to go around. For some unexpected exercise, head over to Topsail Skating Rink to burn off those calories. Approaching its 50th year of existence, this retro roller skate spot plays music on 45 records and is located above the post office in Topsail Beach. If it’s low tide, take the hike across the jetty at Fort Fisher to Zeke’s Island. As the most challenging geography in the area, it attracts guests and locals who are ready for it. You can also enjoy a little solitude and shade at Summer Rest Trail. This nearly one-mile trail near Wrightsville Beach is a relaxing place for a getaway or to bring the family for an outdoor adventure. 

Also for some family fun, Wilmington offers the Museum of the Bizarre. This curious collection of oddities from Alexander Hamilton’s hair to Harry Houdini’s Ouija board is also home to a Mission Impossible-style laser vault maze. Kids can navigate the crisscross laser beams and compete to see who can do it without breaking a beam in the shortest amount of time. 

For a nice evening out, dine at Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar which has live music many nights of the week. The Carolina Beach embodies relaxation as guests can enjoy lunch or a drink on the water. To build upon the momentum of your stay, head over to Blue Moon Gift Shops on Racine Drive near UNCW. Since opening in 1999, locals and tourists enjoy wandering through the aisles of local treasures. Blue Moon Gift Shops is filled with home accessories, furniture, art, pottery, hand blown glass, apparel, handcrafted jewelry, baby gifts, coastal decor, lamps, photography, gourmet fudge, and local North Carolina products. With over 100 artisans, retailers, and entrepreneurs filling the 8,500-square-foot space, this is the perfect place to spend a day with friends. 

Getting There

United Airlines offers nonstop service from Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Wilmington International Airport (ILM). If you are flying from Reagan National Airport (DCA), American Airlines offers nonstop service to ILM.