Itching to get out of town, Winstonians? Skip those pesky airport security lines and jump in your car for a road trip to Wilmington instead. From touring historic homes to dining on freshly served oysters at aView Rooftop Bistro — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the Port City.
📍 Essential info
Drive time: ~3.5 hours
Year city was established: 1739
Est. population: ~122,698
🎟️ Experience
Wait a minute, Winstonians. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Acadia Foods Market and Deli.
Wilmington Riverwalk | Water Street
Take a scenic route while passing various markets, boutiques, quaint shops, and outdoor cafes. Pro tip: Don’t miss out on riverfront drone shows every Saturdays in December.
Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens | 503 Market St.
Tour the decorated house museum for free year-round. Walk around rooms showcasing 18th and 19th century antiques, plus stroll along the colonial-style gardens. Read through different exhibits showcasing Wilmington’s history and its evolution. Pro tip: Guided tours cost $13+.
Cape Fear Festival of Trees | 900 Loggerhead Rd.
Wander through the festive aquatic displays that’ll give you the experience of an enchanted forest.
Blue Moon Gift Shops | 203 Racine Dr.
Shop from over 100 artisans, retailers, and entrepreneurs at this store voted “Best Gift Shop in Wilmington” year after year. Find home accessories, coastal decor, hand-crafted jewelry on display daily.
Holiday Riverwalk Lights Cruise | 106 S. Water St.
Experience the beauty of holiday lights from the opposite side of the boardwalk — on water — on the 90-minute cruise tour. Tickets cost $24+.
New Hanover County Arboretum | 6206 Oleander Dr.
Make a quick stop and stroll through the Japanese garden and tea garden surrounded by Japanese maples. End your stroll by taking in a peaceful moment at the Koi pond located at the center of the space.
🍔 Eat
aView Rooftop Bistro | 501 Nutt St., Seventh Floor
Breathe in fresh air on the rooftop while taking in the sublime views of the beach. Whether you’re seated outside with a cozy fire pit or indoor with floor-to-ceiling windows, dine on savory starters like oysters to desserts made in-house.
Cam Cafe @ Cameron Art Museum | 3201 South 17th St.
No need for a museum membership to access this European-style cafe that serves lunch, brunch, and dinner. Enjoy a jazz performance and the arts while you’re there.
Satelite Bar & Lounge | 120 Greenfield St.
Relax with live music on Sunday afternoons and nights at this lounge area. Catch salsa and bachata lessons once a month on Wednesdays.
Dough House Pizza Co. | 110 N. Front St.
Opt for handcrafted pizza and sandwiches, or build your own at this family restaurant located downtown. Get this — Chef Nick Chavez was one of the contestants on Food Network’s “Chopped” where he won $10,000 for executing delicious meals with mystery ingredients on the show. Who knows? You might see this local celebrity in action during your stay in the Port City.
🏨 Stay
Delight @ The Cove Riverwalk Villas
This customer favorite offers a unique one-bedroom houseboat with a fully stocked kitchen and a decked-out rooftop patio. It’s located less than a mile away from downtown Wilmington, so you can skip the stress of finding parking during heavy traffic.
Front Street Inn | 215 S. Front St.
The historic boutique hotel showcases a perfect blend of southern hospitality with a modern twist. Whether you’re planning a stay for the whole family at the Coastal Cottage or reserving the Dutch Golden Age-inspired room for two, this spot guarantees a memorable stay.
Stairway to Heaven | 2 Marina St., Unit D.
Located minutes away from Wrightsville Beach, the 3bd + 2ba condo offers expansive views of the Intracoastal Waterway from the living room. This vacation rental is the perfect spot to take it easy and relax on your vacation.
🚗 Cruise
No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.
- With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
- You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
- Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
- Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
- Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
- Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.
