Top Rated Attractions in Wilmington

Battleship North Carolina or USS North Carolina (BB-55) was the battleship that was used during the Second World War. The warship was in use from 1941 right through 1947 and served multiple wars through its existence. The battleship was then struck in 1960, post which it was docked at the Wilmington port in 1962 to be served as a ship museum. The Ship has been renovated so as to showcase its pristine image and glory that it faced during its service.

One of the most beautiful and well maintained public gardens in the city, the Airlie Gardens span across 67 acres (27.11 hectares). The garden was initially a private garden built in 1901. The New Hanover County overtook it in 1999 and made is accessible to the people. Some of the prominent features of the garden include the Bottle Chapel, a chapel made out of colored bottles and the statue. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna including the flowering plants like Lilac, Kardoon, Pentas, Pickeral weed and so on which are an absolute delight to see. The gardens are open to public visitation and guided tours are conducted. Several local events and private functions are also held at the garden.

The Riverwalk is a scenic landmark in Wilmington and runs along the Cape Fear River on one side and downtown Wilmington on the other. The walkway offers spectacular and serene views of the river, the surrounding countryside, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets. There are a lot of restaurants and cafes along the way that you can stop at for a quick bite to eat or for a refreshing drink. Some of the highlights along the way include the USS North Carolina Battleship, the River to Sea Gallery, and Battleship Park. This walkway also frequently hosts music and cultural events during the summer months. Taking a walk along The Riverwalk should not be passed up when in the city.

This historic complex of Wilmington features a cluster of structures and buildings which present spectacular architectural styles. Tour the streets winding through this district to admire the vestiges of history which are still well-preserved.

The history of Bellamy Mansion Museum can be traced back to the later half of the 1800s when it was built for the Bellamy family. Built in the Civil War period, this mansions speaks about the architecture and history of that era. Spread across 10,000 square foot (929.03 square meters), this magnificent architecture is surrounded by beautifully designed lush green gardens. Bellamy Mansion Museum also offers services for being a venue for your private and special events, and is a popular wedding and corporate event location.

Downtown Wilmington is a district that never sleeps. Visitors here can enjoy an eclectic selection of food served by the many restaurants, bistros, and cafes, shopping at the locally owned stores, take in plays and theater productions, visit the museums and walk through history, dance the night away at the numerous nightclubs, or simply roam the streets and enjoy the evolution of architecture in the city over the centuries. A highlight of your visit downtown is sure to be the Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River. Whatever your fancy, Downtown Wilmington is sure to keep you entertained.