Things to Do and See

From historic lanes lined with antebellum mansions to hipster hotspots where movie stars like to hang, surprises surface all over Wilmington, N.C. The city, including outlying communities of Ogden and Porters Neck, is so rich with events, attractions, cultural arts, and recreational opportunities, deciding what to do first may be difficult.

Outdoor fun rules thanks to a mild climate. Fishing, kayaking, bicycling, golfing, boating, swimming, surfing, kite-boarding and paddle-boarding, and other sports are popular. Health clubs, fitness centers, yoga studios, triathlons, and other races round out the mix.

Wilmington is also known for its annual events and festivals, from Azalea Festival to the Cucalorus Film Festival. Cameron Art Museum centers a thriving art scene that also features numerous galleries.

Wilmington's attractions, many of them centered along the downtown waterfront, are rich and varied. Tour the World War II battleship USS North Carolina as well as museums and historic mansions, or sample various tours. When night falls, the city's tune swings from jazz and rock to folk and country. Linger in a plush sofa bar or join crowds on pulsating dance floors. Nightlife is always lively.

Easy daytrips and volunteer opportunities are added ways to spend time. The city's various venues and lovely chapels make it a good choice for weddings, too.