What to do in Wilmington, NC

Activities, attractions and tours
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Wilmington Attractions

If you're after things to see and do in Wilmington, get set to be busy. This buzzing city knows how to entertain. No matter your tastes, you'll be impressed by the broad range of tourist attractions to dive into here. Read on to discover some of the best of them.

If you're ready to explore Wilmington, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly guide show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {11 fun activities in Wilmington fun activities in Wilmington} are also worth checking out.

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What to do in Wilmington

Free Things to Do in Wilmington

Leave your wallet in the hotel room. It's easy to have a ball in Wilmington without handing over a cent.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington - Stop at this modern landmark and be wowed by its impressive design.

Wilmington Oakdale Cemetery - If you're interested in history and heritage, this is one attraction you won't want to miss.

Carolina Heights - Learn why locals and travelers alike enjoy the unique atmosphere of this place.

Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens - Whether you can tell your peonies from poppies, you'll no doubt find beauty in this glorious display.

Things to Do in Wilmington with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in Wilmington. Here are a few family friendly experiences to enjoy together that'll make your vacation unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Wilmington? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Wilmington on a sunny day?
If you’re in the mood for a bit of fun in the sun, take a look at these outdoor activities:


What to do in Wilmington on a rainy day?
Take advantage of a gray, rainy day by trying some indoor activities, like a The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University Tickets or a Self-Guided Tour of the Betsy Ross House.
Are there cheap things to do in Wilmington?
You’ll find loads of fun experiences here that are just the thing if you’re watching your budget:


What can you do in Wilmington for free?
Your trip to Wilmington won’t cost a fortune with free attractions like these to keep you busy:

  • Wrightsville Beach
  • Carolina Beach
  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington
  • Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Popular places to visit

Image for University of North Carolina at Wilmington

University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of North Carolina at Wilmington as part of your travels around Wilmington. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington
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Battleship North Carolina

Take a tour of the lead ship of North Carolina-class battleships and learn about U.S. Navy history in a unique and adventurous way.

Battleship North Carolina
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Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens, a lovely green space in Wilmington. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens
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Bellamy Mansion Museum

Follow curving paths in the lush Victorian-style gardens and explore this opulent mansion in the heart of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina.

Bellamy Mansion Museum
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Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

Enjoy a show at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, a theater with a story to tell in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.

Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
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New Hanover County Arboretum

Explore the great outdoors at New Hanover County Arboretum, a lovely green space in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.

New Hanover County Arboretum
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Wilmington Convention Center

Learn about the events happening at Wilmington Convention Center during your trip to Wilmington. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in the area.

Wilmington Convention Center
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Mayfaire Town Center

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Mayfaire Town Center during your visit to Wilmington. Stroll along the riverfront or attend a sporting event in the area.

Mayfaire Town Center
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Cape Fear Community College

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Cape Fear Community College during your visit to Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.

Cape Fear Community College

Explore areas of Wilmington

Wilmington showing an administrative buidling

Downtown Wilmington

Downtown Wilmington is beloved for its stunning river views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Cape Fear River and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College.

Downtown Wilmington
Wilmington showing an administrative buidling

Wilmington Historic District

4.5/5Wonderful!(584 area reviews)

A noteworthy feature of Wilmington Historic District is its stunning river views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Cape Fear River and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts.

Wilmington Historic District
Wilmington showing an administrative buidling

River District

While visiting River District, you might make a stop by sights like Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts.

River District
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Landfall

4.5/5Wonderful!(26 area reviews)

While there might not be top attractions in Landfall, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mayfaire Town Center and Airlie Gardens.

Landfall
Butterfly gardens are always a nice place to relax #beautiful

Airlie

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Airlie and surrounding area, you can visit Airlie Gardens and Johnnie Mercer's Pier.

Airlie
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Wrightsville West Townhouses

Wrightsville West Townhouses might not have many top sights, but Airlie Gardens and Mayfaire Town Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Wrightsville West Townhouses
See our Where To Stay guide

Day trip destinations from Wilmington

Wrightsville Beach which includes general coastal views and a beach

Wrightsville Beach

Carolina Beach which includes a beach, surf and a coastal town

Carolina Beach

Battleship North Carolina showing heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Leland

Photo by Shawn

Winnabow

Photo by Michael Schuier

Hampstead

Photo by Vacancyfor2

Rocky Point