Area Activities
Wilmington,
At A Glance
Once the largest city in NC, and the last major port to hold off Union
troops during the Civil War, Wilmington is just a short drive to the beaches. It exudes history. Homes
dating from the early 1800s are open for tours. Museums, shops, restaurants,
and river boats are among a "must see" list of things to see
and do.
Past Tense
Many historic homes are open for tours in downtown Wilmington. The Burgwin-Wright House
(1770), the Latimer House (1852) and the Bellamy Mansion (1859) are just some of the
establishments available for visitors. Call the Convention & Visitors Bureau for tour
information. (910)341-4030.
Leisurely tour old Wilmington by horse & buggy. Bounce along its cobblestone streets
just like folks did long ago.
Stop by the Railroad Museum and see why Wilmington was a busy hub – again, long ago
The Showboat
The USS North Carolina proudly served in the Pacific during WWII with a crew of 2,339. The
battleship earned 15 battle stars during her reign, participating in every major naval
offensive. The North Carolina stands as a technological giant of her era and fortunately
for us, most of her nine decks are open to the public for self-guided tours.
How About A Boat Ride?
Hop aboard the Maffitt River Taxi for a short jaunt to the Battleship.
Or try a dinner cruise on the paddle-wheeler Henrietta III. Call 343-1611
for both vessels. For an inexpensive but great family experience ride
the Ft. Fisher Ferry to historic Southport.
S
hop ‘Til You Drop
In the mid 19th century cotton was king and Wilmington was the largest port in NC. Today,
the refurbished Cotton Exchange houses over thirty shops. From artists’ galleries to
toy stores with everything in between. Convenient parking.
Chandler’s Wharf on South Water Street offers a variety of shops. Visit the City
Market where local artisans display their wares. Other nooks and crannies are worth a
look-see. Visit Nautical Hangups and other fine shops in the Historic District.
A Touch Of Class
We’ve got that, too! Thalian Hall, the oldest community theatre in the U.S. opened in
1855. Its classic architecture plays host to a continuous repertoire of entertainment from
theatre presentations to concerts and award-winning foreign flicks.
St. John’s Museum of Art houses three centuries of NC masters. Stroll around the
sculpture garden and enjoy art surrounded by nature’s beauty. The Cape Fear Museum
features an ever-changing array of exhibits, ranging from hometown boy, Michael Jordan, to
dinosaurs and blockade runners.
The Kids Are Driving You
Nuts?
Have no fear. There’s lots to do in the immediate area when those
clouds roll in, or perhaps the sun’s too hot! Bowling
alleys, movie theatres, a water park, miniature golf and let’s not
forget THE MALL are favorites of the terrible twos to the tormenting teens!
Worth a short trip is the NC Aquarium at Ft. Fisher, with hands-on exhibits and the
recently opened Wilmington Children’s Museum on Market Street, featuring
"learning by play."
Let’s Celebrate
Highlighting the year is the annual Azalea Festival with activities including home and
garden tours, a 3-hour parade with Hollywood stars, Azalea Belles, plus lively marching
bands. After the parade, Water Street turns into a spectacle of color with craftsmen,
bands, dancers, great eats and just plain fun. Big name entertainment comes to town, along
with the circus.
Usher in the holidays with Wrightsville Beach’s own Holiday Flotilla with boats gaily
lighted and crews creatively costumed. Topping off the evening, fireworks explode over
Banks Channel. Held annually, the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Hollywood East
Want to catch a glimpse of that starlet? Well, you may have a chance as you visit the
area. Next to LA and NY, Wilmington boasts the largest studio in the United States. Keep a
look out and stay tuned. Screen Gems Studio is open for tours on 23rd Street.
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