2019 Wilmington Activities Guide

Arlie Gardens is home to a stunning collection of natural gardens and eye-catching artworks which continually impresses visitors to the Wilmington area. Established in 1901, and originally used as a private garden for...

Visiting scuba pros who want to explore the ledges and historic wrecks that are found off the Cape Fear coastline, and local scuba newbies who want to take the plunge and learn the trade, can accomplish both of these...

Arrowhead Park is a fun destination for Wilmington locals and visitors alike to take a break from the waves, and dive into a little outdoor entertainment outside the waterfront realm. Located just south of the heart of...

Battle House is a mission-based laser tag center that takes the traditional laser tag game to the next level. Suitable for adults and older kids, as well as private and corporate parties, the facilities feature 10,000...

The Beach House Bar is a casual taste of the islands in the northern Ogden region of the Cape Fear area. Known for its nightlife, cold drinks, and ultra laid-back atmosphere, the Beach House Bar is the place to go for a...

Beer Barrio is a chic Happy Hour destination in the heart of Downtown Wilmington that’s renowned for ice cold drinks, fresh cuisine, and an abundance of good times. A perfect stop for refueling after a lengthy...

When driving or strolling past the Bellamy Mansion, visitors are often transported back to a different time, when the Antebellum South was in full prestige, and Wilmington was a bustling, pre-Civil War port town...

Bijou Park is a hidden gem of a "blink and you'll miss it" attraction in Wilmington, and is a perfect spot for weary shoppers and strollers to find a quiet bench, stretch out their legs, and relax. Located in a rare gap...

Billy Ray’s Family Restaurant is a unique destination that attracts sports fans and southern cooking fans alike. Located in a busy but more local section of Carolina Beach Road, this relatively new eatery serves...

Wilmington is known for its rich history, and its’ incredible theater and entertainment scene, and the acclaimed Brooklyn Arts Center combines these two enticing attributes. Featuring a rotating line-up of shows...

The Brown Coat Pub and Theatre is a veritable catch-all for entertainment in the heart of Downtown Wilmington, with an ever-changing array of live theater, local concerts, and karaoke, which is complemented by a full...

The Burgwin-Wright Museum House may be one of many former Wilmington residences that claim historical significance and a long and storied history, but this home is remarkably beautiful and distinctive in its own right...

Buzz’s Roost is a fun little spot in the heart of Downtown Wilmington that is known for its solid sandwiches, seafood, and plenty of good times. With a nice long interior bar that boasts a full row or TVs, and a...

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, the Cameron Art Museum has grown over the past five decades into one of coastal North Carolina's premier collections of regional, national and international art, filling...

Test your smarts and your ability to figure out puzzles under pressure by visiting one of Wilmington’s newest attractions for quick-thinkers, the Cape Fear Escape Room.

Cape Fear Games is miles above the standard gaming store, thanks to an impressive collection of board games, cards, sports equipment, and regular special events that attract board game fans and players of all genres...

The Cape Fear Museum, (shorthand for the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science), has been educating and entertaining visitors for well over 100 years. Founded in 1898, the museum is the oldest operating museum in...

Narrated sightseeing tours, dinner cruises & private charters on the Cape Fear River. Featuring the Captain J.N. Maffitt, The John Knox, and Jacob's Run Cape Fear Riverboats is Wilmington NC’s longest...

Downtown Wilmington visitors will first be introduced to Cape Fear Riverboats by glimpsing the massive, three story Henrietta III - a classic riverboat cruise ship - along the central waterfront. But Cape Fear...

Visitors who want to explore the historic and story-rich streets of downtown Wilmington will find plenty of tour options, but arguably none are more unique than the Segway tours provided by acclaimed local provider...

Beer and wine lovers will be in a casual and locally cool heaven when they pay a visit to Cape Fear Wine & Beer – a longstanding local bar and beverage shop that has been raising the bar for beer fans for...

Captain Charles Robbins' Cape Fear River Adventures is a top-rated touring company that takes explorers to the backwaters of the local Cape Fear rivers and streams where the local wildlife thrives. From basic...

Take a break from the daily grind and dive into a game of volleyball, a trivia night, or just a few rounds and a hearty meal with friends and family with a visit to Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill & Sports...

Cardinal Lanes Beach Bowl is an expansive bowling center where amateurs and pros alike can test their skills in a fun and family-friendly environment. Perfect for afternoon or evening games, as well as private parties...

From purchases and rentals, to learning the basics of the art of riding, Carolina PaddleBoard Co. has new stand-up paddle boarders (SUP) covered. Located in the heart of Wrightsville Beach just off of Airlie Road, and...

The Children's Museum of Wilmington, located in historic Downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, is an ideal destination for adventurous kids who want a day full of imagination exploring the world of art...

Downtown Wilmington explorers don’t have to venture too far to discover the Port City’s exceptional theater scene thanks to the conveniently located City Stage Theater. Featuring a “Level 5” bar...

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating than a big belly laugh, and Wilmington’s own Dead Crow Comedy Room is a perfectly convenient destination for Cape Fear visitors to sit back, enjoy a drink, and let loose...

Enjoy a range of both indoor and outdoor fun with a visit to the enticingly named DefyGravity Wilmington. A unique trampoline park that’s home to a wealth active entertainment, this centrally located fun center is...

Dig & Dive is a neighborhood sports bar and restaurant in central Wilmington that is gaining a following that’s well outside the collection of apartment complexes and residential communities which border the...

Echo Farms Golf and Country Club is a semi-private country club that features an enticing 18-hole course in the heart of the inland Cape Fear region. Featuring Tiff-Eagle Bermuda grass greens and Bermuda grass fairways...

Take a walk on the Cape Fear’s wild side with a visit to the Ev-Henwood Nature Preserve – a scenic 174-acre natural area that’s a prized component of the University of North Carolina Wilmington...

Explore one of the newest art spaces in the culturally rich city of Wilmington with a visit to Expo 216. Located in the heart of the downtown area, this gallery is a fine destination to discover a wealth of talents...

Spend a full day exploring the wide open waters that surround the Cape Fear region, or devote a fishing trip to some of the best angling in the area, with an expedition that’s commandeered by Feel Good Fishing...

Fibber McGees Irish Restaurant & Pub is a sweet little pub and restaurant that’s found on a picturesque business-lined street on the outskirts of Landfall, and which is close to a handful of golf courses...

Firebelly Lounge is a longstanding hang-out for Wilmington’s college crowd. Originally located in the downtown area, and recently moved to its new location along Carolina Beach Road, this restaurant and lounge...

The Fox and Hound Pub & Grille is a prime destination for visitors to relax with a pint and a hearty meal after a long day of shopping in the ultra-posh Mayfaire Town center. Featuring a full menu of drinks and...

The northernmost coastal region of Carolina Beach is home to the Freeman Park Recreation Area, a stretch of shoreline that is well known to adventurous, beach-loving 4WD truck owners. Unlike other stretches of the...

Greenfield Lake Park is known as one of Wilmington’s coolest and most scenic destinations, and is a vast public park that’s located just south of the historic downtown area. Located on the western edge of...

Halyburton Park, (also known by its formal name of Halyburton Memorial Park), is a 58-acre nature preserve that features a lengthy biking and hiking trail, a number of public facilities, and a scenic glimpse into the...

Halyburton Memorial Park is a perfect respite for visitors who want to take a break from the busy Downtown Wilmington shopping, dining and attractions, and just relax amidst the natural ponds and unique rolling sand...

The Cotton Exchange has long attracted shoppers, foodies, and history buffs of all tastes, but few people know that this ancient collection of brick buildings that’s found alongside the Cape Fear River also has a...

Enjoy a pint or two, (or even three), and toast the darker side of Wilmington’s downtown area with a Haunted Pub Crawl. These enjoyable tours for the 21 and older crowd embark on a 2.5 hour long adventure that...

Movie buffs and foodies alike will have a fine time at Hell’s Kitchen, a chic little Downtown Wilmington restaurant that had a guest role in the homegrown TV series, “Dawson’s Creek.” Located...

It's easy to miss the Bluethenthal Wildflower Preserve. Located on the outskirts of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington's campus, this preserve was all but wiped away by the 1970s due to encroaching...

Wrightsville Beach anglers can enjoy a fulfilling expedition to the back bays, inlets, and open waters of the Atlantic Ocean with a trip that’s commandeered by Hieronymus Fishing Charters. Located on the edge of...

Visitors throughout the Cape Fear area can easily embark on a paddling adventure thanks to the centrally located Hook, Line & Paddle. This convenient paddling destination features a wealth of rental equipment for...

Hugh McRae Park is a centrally located public park that features a wealth of natural beauty and scenery, as well as plenty of activities to keep park-goers of all ages engaged. Located just south of the UNCW campus, and...

Indo Jax Surf School serves as a launching point for Wrightsville Beach locals and visitors alike who want to join the crowds that flock to the beach for the consistent good surfing conditions. With a home base...

Situated in a quiet and primarily residential corner of the city of Wilmington, the James E.L. Wade Park is a surprising and engaging destination for locals and visitors alike who want to experience the Great Outdoors...

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating...

Adventurous vacationers of all ages will love learning to ride the waves through the professional instructors at JC Surf Camp. Based in Wilmington, this established surf camp was built with the vision to pass on the...

Enjoy a little bit of old school fun with a visit to Jellybeans Family Skate Center. A great destination for visitors of all ages, as well as skaters of all skill levels, this massive roller skating rink is a solid spot...

Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely original destination where food, drinks, live music, a hookah bar, and even belly dancing can all be found. A popular hang-out with the college crowd, and a fun late-night...

There’s an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much...

Katy’s Grill and Bar is a haven for sports fans, thanks to a recently renovated living room, a full bar with rows of flat screen TVs, a cool outdoor dining area complete with shady umbrella-topped tables, and an...

Wilmington visitors who want to check out the adjacent Cape Fear beaches in style can sign up for a surf lesson or camp from the homegrown KowaBunga Surf School. Based out of Wilmington but accessing a number of local...

The Latimer House Museum and Gardens has a key role in Wilmington's historical culture. Built in the early 1850s and still preserved as one of the region's many opulent homes which have been converted to museums, this...

Wilmington visitors who love a good sports outing, exhibition, or a grand scale performance will want to check out what’s on the schedule at the renowned Legion Stadium. Home of the Wilmington Hammerheads soccer...

Literary fans and writers will adore the Literary History Walking Tour - a cool tour that explores the streets of Downtown Wilmington from the point of view of some of the globe’s most famous scribes. Working in...

Embark on a fishing trip that’s close to home but which targets some larger-than-life catches with a fishing trip that’s commandeered by Live Line Charters. This local charter business specializes in deep...

Casual and perfect for the college crowd, Low Tide Pub is where locals go to grab a beer, a bite to eat, and a little after-hours entertainment. This pub and bar is located on the edge of the UNCW campus, which makes it...

Though seemingly always hopping with activity, Wilmington has a surprising number of rugged and undeveloped paddling trails throughout the Cape Fear area, and newcomers can explore all these hidden gems with a kayaking...

Might as Well Bar & Grill is a modest-sized bar and restaurant that’s a solid destination for filling food and Happy Hour or late-night drinks with friends. Boasting a big array of beverages and drink...

Sometimes a name says it all, and the Museum of the Bizarre is a short but engaging trip through some of Wilmington’s more unusual chapters in history. A popular destination for weird-loving visitors and film...

The New Hanover County Arboretum, located on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington on Oleander Drive, is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers everywhere. With seven acres of greenery, and gorgeous foliage that changes...

There’s no excuse to put off a day of fishing with this friendly and professional charter boat company that patrols the waters just off the Cape Fear shoreline for some of the region’s tastiest and most...

Take a thrilling spin around the wide open waters that surround the Cape Fear region with a Jet Ski provided by the locally owned and operated North End Jet Ski Rentals. Featuring owners with a keen knowledge of...

History buffs and ghost story fans will love a stroll through Wilmington’s own Oakdale Cemetery. This prestigious cemetery, which dates back to the 1850s, is the final resting place of a number of notable...

Outdoor lovers and active visitors of all tastes will have a fine time at the engaging Ogden Park. Located just northeast of the Downtown area, and convenient to Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach visitors alike, this...

Paso Fino is a completely authentic Mexican food restaurant, bar, and lounge that serves up overflowing plates of budget-friendly cuisine, as well as hosts big name Latin acts and live music in the adjoining lounge...

Patriot Dive Center is an all-encompassing dive center that provides everything from initial certification classes to liveaboard trips to some of the most beautiful scuba diving destinations in the world. Conveniently...

Wilmington visitors can enjoy a visit to one of the oldest peanut plantations in the country with an easy drive to the Poplar Grove Plantation. Located just north of the center of Wilmington along US Highway 17, this...

Beer lovers will be thrilled to discover that there’s a local Wilmington tour designed just for them – the Port City Brew Bus. Open to visitors who are 21 and older, this tour bus heads to three of the...

Wilmington’s youngest visitors can enjoy a full morning, afternoon or summertime camp of fun at Power of Play – a cool and entertaining destination for playground-worthy fun in an indoor setting. A perfect...

For a fishing trip that’s accessible and fun for the entire family, count on the Carolina Beach-based ProFishNC Charters. This friendly and professional fishing charter business combs the Cape Fear coast for a...

Visitors can dive into Wilmington’s famed theater scene on a small and intimate scale with a visit to the aptly named Red Barn Studio Theatre. This 50-seat theater is the place to go to see local talents before...

Being this close to the water may inspire a taste for the islands, and Wilmington visitors can appease this craving with a visit to Reggae Hut Bar and Grill. Located in the heart of the Downtown area, and just a few...

Tucked away on the edge of the Cape Fear River just a few miles south of Downtown Wilmington, the River Road Park is a popular launching point for a myriad of adventures that can range from kayaking and boating...

All Downtown Wilmington visitors should make a date with the Riverwalk, a long wooden walkway that follows the borders of the Cape Fear River and which provides plenty of unparalleled vistas along the way. Cruising past...

Even experienced anglers can use a hand navigating the waters of the Cape Fear Coastline, and Rod-Man Charters offers a unique take on the traditional charter fishing experience by having the expert guide come to you...

Enjoy a view of Downtown Wilmington from the middle of the Cape Fear River with a sailing tour provided by Sail Wilmington NC. This friendly sailing tour company allows visitors to catch an in-depth perspective of...

The town of Wilmington is well-known for its Hollywood connection, and has set the stage for hundreds if not thousands of movies and television shows over the past few decades. The pinnacle of this cinematic activity...

Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach visitors who want to dive into a truly out of-this-world adventure can sign up for training, classes, and even chartered trips through the exceptionally located Scuba Now. This...

Budding biologists with an inherent curiosity about their coastal surroundings will have a blast at Wilmington’s own Sea Turtle Camp – an enriching summer camp program for teens to learn more about these...

Anglers can enjoy a fishing trip that’s led by a local expert with a half-day or full-day charter provided by Seagate Charters. This local charter business that’s based out of Wilmington is commandeered by...

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of...

Situated on the edge of the Cape Fear River and the Intracoastal Waterway, and located just a quick cruise away from the Atlantic Ocean, Snow’s Cut Park is a popular destination for anglers, birdwatchers, and...

Get your toes wet into the ample on-the-water regions that the Cape Fear region has to offer with a kayak rental or guided tour provided by Southeast Angler. Perfect for exploring the marshy canals, tidal creeks, and...

Downtown Wilmington and history go hand-in-hand which is why Springbrook Farms Horsedrawn Tours, a tour company that uses a horse-drawn carriage to carry visitors around town, seems to fit right into the local scene...

Garden fans and everyday explorers alike will love discovering the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Garden – a hidden gem that’s found in the busy heart of central Wilmington. Located along Independence Blvd., and...

Sample the heart of Wilmington’s famed culinary scene with this tour that will make your taste buds celebrate a downtown exploration. The Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours is specifically catered for foodies, and...

The Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts not only sets the stage for some of Wilmington's most opulent and engaging performances, but it also reigns as one of Wilmington's most distinguished buildings in its...

Visitors can celebrate Wilmington's deep-rooted history in trade with a visit to the historic Cotton Exchange. The complex of eight buildings features over 30 shops and restaurants that are worthy of exploration, and...

Visitors who love kayaking but who are looking for a more in-depth local adventure will feel right at home with the services provided by The Expedition Organization. With a motto of “Out of the ordinary and into...

Take a trip to the edge of Downtown Wilmington to dive into authentic Irish cuisine with a visit to The Harp – a subtle little eatery that’s found just a couple blocks away from the Cape Fear Riverfront, and...

Wilmington is all about exceptional theater, great cuisine, and local talent, and TheaterNOW combines all these wonderful community attributes in one central location. Situated in the heart of Wilmington just off of...

The Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery is a fun Happy Hour or late-night destination for pub fans who like good eats, a fun atmosphere, and a good excuse to sit back with a beer and watch the game. Located just off of the...

Tackle a fishing expedition that explores the close-to-home but fruitful waters of the Cape Fear region with an inshore or nearshore fishing trip provided by Topwater Guide Co. Based out of Wilmington, but serving...

Locally owned and operated Tour Old Wilmington shows visitors a unique side of the historic port city, as they are transported back in time by a costumed guide who will breathe life into the ancient buildings and...

Water lovers who want to explore the picturesque waters of the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), or who want an easy trek to the nearby Masonboro Island, will want to head to the small but scenic Trails End Park.

Enjoy an educational yet fully engaging tour of historic Wilmington with a journey that starts with a Trip with Triplett. This local tour company is orchestrated by Robin, a retired social studies teacher who grew up in...

A veritable world of artists make a visit to the UNCW Cultural Arts Center – a centrally located auditorium and performing arts center that features some of the best performances in the Port Coty. Situated in the...

Anglers who are itching to get their lines wet in the open waters of the Cape Fear region can book a 1/2 day, 3/4 day, or cooler-busting full day charter fishing trip with Whipsaw Fishing Charters. Offering both inshore...

Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill is a hidden gem that’s tucked away near the Masonboro Sound, and which serves as a popular hang-out for Wilmington residents in the Masonboro Loop and Monkey Junction area. Serving up...

The Wilmington National Cemetery was established in 1867 by the US Government as a final resting place for the Union Troops who had perished during the Civil War in the battlefields surrounding the Wilmington area.

With Wilmington's distinguished history as a thriving port community, few folks recognize at first that part of this reputation stemmed from its legacy as a bustling railroad center. In fact, for well over 125 years...

Riverfront Park, which encompasses a decent chunk of the popular Downtown Riverwalk, is a scenic region which will lure visitors into pulling up a bench seat, staying a while, and enjoying the miles of Cape Fear River...

When the weather heats up, there’s nothing like a day at the ballpark, and Wilmington vacationers can root for the home team, thanks to the Port City’s own minor league club, the Wilmington Sharks. Part of...

Symphony fans don’t have to travel to New York, Boston, or even the state capital of Raleigh to hear a world-class performance, thanks to the Port City’s own Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. Established in...

All aboard for a fun exploration of the Port City that’s hosted by the Wilmington Trolley Company – an engaging tour company that allows new visitors and longtime Wilmington fans alike to explore the area...

Imagine a lazy day or evening drifting through the wide waters and backwater creeks of the Cape Fear River, spotting a number of wild critters and enjoying unbeatable perspectives of the historic Downtown Waterfront...

From Wrightsville Beach to the exclusive Figure 8 Island, everyone can find a hefty dose of on-the-water fun through the accommodating Wrightsville Kayak Company. This local rental business offers much more than your...

Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington visitors can enjoy a truly high flying adventure without ever leaving the Cape Fear coastline with Wrightsville Parasailing Company. Established in 1998, this locally renowned...

Take a step back in time and dive into an antebellum world of charm and culture with a visit to the exquisite Zebulon Latimer House. Located in the heart of the historic downtown region, and just a couple blocks away...