Best hotels in Wilmington
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown
229 North 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401
An indoor swimming pool, technology-equipped lobby, and on-site bistro are just some of the fantastic amenities you’ll encounter at this downtown Marriott hotel. There’s also high-speed internet in the rooms – perfect for business travelers – and a large desk with an ergonomic chair.
The Hive
505 North 2nd Street, NC, 28401
This hotel is set amid the vibrant buzz of downtown Wilmington, situated near Cape Fear Community College. It calls itself ‘Wilmington’s top boutique hotel’, and it’s easy to see why – all 14 suites are style-conscious and equipped with fully-stocked kitchens and original art displays.
Graystone Inn
100 South 3rd Street, NC, 28401
For a touch of romance in the heart of historic Wilmington, try this renovated, early 20th-century inn. Graystone has extensive grounds, a plush veranda, and an old-style library. Suites come with four-poster beds, elegant accent chairs, and traditional fireplaces.
Best restaurants in Wilmington
Cape Fear Seafood Company
5226 South College Road, NC, 28412
Attention to detail is the secret ingredient at Cape Fear Seafood Company. This restaurant has been serving delectable fish dishes since 2008. Must-try Southern delicacies such as fried okra and seafood Jambalaya feature on the menu, as well as crab cakes from North Carolina’s own Bald Head Island.
The Melting Pot
885 Town Center Drive, NC, 28405
This fine-dining fondue restaurant is perfect if you want to try something a little different in the Wilmington area. It’s close to Wrightsville Beach. Visitors must try its specialty, a sharing platter made up of your choice of seasoned melted cheese, a main, and salad – all rounded up with an indulgent chocolate fondue.
Drift Coffee & Kitchen
110 Dungannon Boulevard, NC, 28403
This local chain has three locations – two in Wilmington and one at nearby Ocean Isle Beach. It’s a great place to swing by for breakfast, brunch, or a casual coffee, especially if you love smashed avocado, breakfast burritos, and cold brew beverages.
Best attractions in Wilmington
Battleship North Carolina
1 Battleship Road North East, NC, 28401
Battleship North Carolina is a majestic icon of the Wilmington waterfront and was one of 10 vessels that set sail across the Atlantic during the Second World War. Take the family to set off on an adventure into the past or embark on a guided tour to delve into life beneath the deck on a working ship.
Airlie Gardens
300 Airlie Road, NC, 28403
For more than a century, these colorful and peaceful gardens have offered respite on the coastline close to Wrightsville Beach. Visit for simple summer walks or step inside the Butterfly House to be greeted by a colorful burst of butterflies, all native to North Carolina. During summer, concerts take place here too.
Cameron Art Museum
3201 South 17th Street, NC, 28412
Contemporary and historic art both have a place at Cameron Art Museum which is also home to a major collection of Mary Cassatt’s color prints. The museum’s one and two-day workshops can even help visitors to refine their skills.
