Welcome to Wilmington, NC
Nestled on the banks of the Cape Fear River, historic Wilmington, N.C., attracts visitors with its rich history, dynamic arts, unique shopping and fine dining. Settled in 1729, Wilmington, or the Port City as it’s known, flourished as a major port and was at one time home to the largest cotton exchange in the world.
Now, visitors to downtown Wilmington walk its beautiful Riverwalk and stroll through the historic district’s shaded streets. Wilmington’s historic district is made up of approximately 230 city blocks of antebellum homes, churches, cemeteries and buildings. Many of these beautifully restored homes are now bed and breakfast inns or small inns and welcome guests year-round. Antique shops, clothing stores, art galleries, ice cream shops, cafes, bakeries, coffee shops and fine dining restaurants line the city’s busy streets, making it the perfect destination. After dark, the city comes alive with a variety of nightclubs, bars, theaters and music venues.
There’s much to see and do in Wilmington. Just across the river, the famous World War II battleship, USS North Carolina, provides an incredible backdrop to the riverfront area. The Bellamy Mansion Museum, a lavish, four-story, 22-room historic mansion beckons visitors with its opulence. Thalian Hall, the city’s home for the performing arts, was built between 1855 and 1858 and brings internationally acclaimed musicians, actors and dancers to the area. The Wilmington Children’s Museum, also downtown, is the perfect stop for nurturing your children’s creativity. The Cameron Art Museum, a short drive from downtown, offers inspiring visual art exhibitions and is the only art museum in southeastern North Carolina. The area has a thriving film community, and EUE/ Screen Gems Studio and the Cucalorus Film Festival are popular destinations for movie lovers.
There are numerous hotels and motels close to downtown Wilmington, as well as all the amenities needed for a visit.
This InsiderInfo™ Guide to Wilmington is the area's most complete source of information for travelers and newcomers alike. Fresh content, locally grown!
