From the idyllic white-sand beaches of three surrounding islands to a quaint downtown riverfront, the historic port city of Wilmington, North Carolina, is a timeless escape for any traveler. Located minutes from the Wilmington International Airport and just over three hours east of Charlotte, the coastal city is easily accessible. With versatile activities and experiences, travelers and locals alike relish Wilmington's picturesque views and bask in the charming, tranquil atmosphere.
Find plentiful activities and attractions in Wilmington's three main areas. Stroll along the wooden 1.75-mile riverwalk nestled along the Cape Fear River, offering year-round mesmerizing sunsets, spacious outdoor restaurants, and hundreds of shops, attractions, and nightlife. Across the river sits the must-visit Battleship North Carolina, a war vessel that served in the Pacific Ocean during World War II now functioning as a widely-loved museum.
Wander away from the river to reach the cobblestone avenues lined with boutiques, cafes, museums, and ravishing Victorian mansions in the city's historic downtown area. Take in the Southern beauty for yourself with a walking tour among the Spanish moss. Explore the area’s 400+ filming locations—you might find yourself on infamous sets from Dawson’s Creek or One Tree Hill! At nightfall, end your evening enjoying freshly harvested seafood from the North Carolina marshlands at chef Dean Neff’s, Seabird. For insights into Neff's commitment to sustainable sourcing, read our sea foraging article or explore recipes for whelk stew, dead man’s fingers salsa verde, and mussels.
During the warmer months, venture across the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to discover pristine beauty at Wrightsville Beach, arguably one of the East Coast’s finest surfing spots. Pack your beach reads, fill your coolers, and plunge your chairs next to the famous Crystal Pier and enjoy a soothing day on the Atlantic shoreline. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Spend the day weaving through the scenic intracoastal waterway on a paddleboard, kayak, or guided nature tour. If you find yourself in Wrightsville during the spring, don’t miss the 67 acres of stunning oaks, tulips, and azaleas at Airlie Gardens. Grab a bite at Panamanian beach cafe, Ceviche’s, or vegan-based, The Green House, on the way back to your downtown stay at Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center or Hotel Ballast.
The raw coastal charm of Wilmington, North Carolina is a haven for travelers craving seaside serenity and adventure!
explore Wilmington 
First Look
A First Look at Olivero
After two years of envisioning his return to Wilmington, North Carolina, Sunny Gerhart will open his restaurant Olivero today, September 6.
In the Field
Marsh to Menu: Carolina Sea Foraging
In the marshlands around Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, Ana Shellem takes chef Dean Neff sea foraging to harvest a bounty of seafood.
Dining Out
Root of the Matter: Wilmington’s Green House
In Wilmington, North Carolina, the Green House is not just an homage to the restaurant’s plant-based menu—it’s an entire experience.
Local Flavor
Recipes
Poached Whelks
Try these carnivorous mollusks by blanching, shocking, removing from the shell, and adding to an aromatic stock for perfectly poached whelks.
Recipes
Dead Man’s Fingers Salsa Verde
Seabird's Dean Neff utilizes foraged dead man's fingers (seaweed) to add a salty brine to this bright and herby salsa verde.
Recipes
Cava Mignonette
Bright flavors of cava and citrus in this mignonette will blend with the sharpness of vinegar for the perfect companion for your oysters.
Recipes
Seabird’s Eastern Seafood Cioppino | Video
When it comes to the cioppino at Seabird, chef-owner Dean Neff admits to packing it into a quart container to sip on the drive home from work
Recipes
Seabird’s Sorghum Pork Ribs
While seafood is often the star at Seabird in Wilmington, their pork ribs use a peppery rub and sweet lacquer to create a customer favorite.
Recipes
Whelk and Shiitake Stew
Whelks might be an unlikely candidate for stew, but combined with umami flavors and a creamy base, this shiitake whelk stew can't be missed.
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