Things To Do
in Wilmington
Wilmington is a city located in the state of Delaware, on the east coast of the United States. It is known for being the most populous city in Delaware and a key economic center in the region. Wilmington has a rich history, with a charming downtown area filled with historic buildings and cultural attractions.
The city also offers access to beautiful outdoor spaces such as parks and the nearby Brandywine Valley.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Wrightsville Beach with a sunrise walk along the shore. Grab breakfast at a beachfront café with fresh local options.
Spend your afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the Atlantic. Alternatively, rent a paddleboard for a fun adventure on the water.
Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the water. End the night with a stroll on the beach and watch the sunset.
Explore the historic district with a guided walking tour to learn about the city's rich history. Visit notable sites like the Bellamy Mansion and the Burgwin-Wright House.
Grab lunch at a local deli before heading to the USS North Carolina Battleship for a self-guided tour. Experience the naval history up close as you explore the ship.
Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring local ingredients. Catch a performance at the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts for a rich cultural evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to beaches
- Rich historical significance and charming downtown area
- Vibrant arts and culture scene with various events and festivals
- Affordable cost of living compared to other coastal cities
- Growing job market, particularly in healthcare and technology sectors
- High humidity and risk of hurricanes in the summer
- Limited public transportation options
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons
- Economic reliance on tourism, which can fluctuate
- Some areas may have issues with crime and safety
Best Activities in Wilmington
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic riverfront, lined with shops and restaurants.
Stroll through the beautiful gardens, featuring colorful blooms and unique sculptures.
Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the ocean, or try water sports like surfing or paddleboarding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Wilmington with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Wilmington
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning example of antebellum architecture and beautiful gardens provide great photo opportunities.
Scenic gardens with walking trails, a freshwater lake, and beautiful blooms for photo opportunities.
Picturesque boardwalk along the Cape Fear River with views of the river and the Wilmington skyline.
Food in Wilmington
Wilmington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Southern dish featuring shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits. Locals recommend trying this dish at Elijah's Restaurant for a delicious rendition.
Must-Try!
Wilmington is famous for its Carolina-style barbecue, particularly pulled pork served with tangy vinegar-based sauce. The Pit Authentic Barbecue is a popular spot to savor this local specialty.
Enjoy a spicy Cajun-style seafood boil featuring fresh shrimp, crab, and crawfish at the Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Wilmington better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a diverse selection of locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and homemade baked goods. It's an ideal place to taste fresh, seasonal flavors and interact with local farmers and food producers.
Wilmington hosts a regular food truck rodeo, featuring a variety of cuisines from around the world. It's a fantastic opportunity to sample diverse street food offerings while enjoying the city's lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Wilmington, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not stand too close to others, particularly when in public settings.
It is customary to greet people with a polite 'hello' or 'good morning' when entering a shop, restaurant, or any public place in Wilmington.
Punctuality is valued in Wilmington, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Wilmington with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Wilmington
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Wilmington, United States, particularly in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also expected for other services such as taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
In Wilmington, United States, most businesses accept major credit cards and mobile payment methods. Cash is also widely used for transactions. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, and many businesses offer this option for convenience and safety.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Wilmington.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Wilmington with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect crowded tourist attractions and higher hotel prices.
Ideal for beachgoers, warm temperatures, and outdoor activities. Expect busy beaches and frequent afternoon showers.
Pleasant weather and fall foliage. Ideal for outdoor adventures and festivals. Expect moderate crowds and lower hotel prices.
Mild winters and fewer crowds. Suitable for indoor activities and holiday events. Expect lower hotel prices and occasional chilly temperatures.
Wilmington at Night
Hiking in Wilmington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walking and hiking path along the Cape Fear River, offering beautiful views and access to parks and attractions.
A 910-acre park featuring trails through lush forests, wetlands, and along the river, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing.
A beautiful garden area with walking paths, scenic views, and various natural landscapes, ideal for leisurely hikes.
Located just south of Wilmington, this park includes trails that meander through diverse ecosystems including coastal forests and marshes.
A large park in Wilmington with several trails, picnic areas, and open spaces for hiking and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Wilmington through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Wilmington by plane.
Located approximately 100 miles west of Wilmington, CLT is the primary international gateway for the Charlotte, North Carolina area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
About 130 miles northwest of Wilmington, RDU serves the Research Triangle region and provides a variety of domestic and international flights.
Located roughly 100 miles south of Wilmington, SAV offers access to both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 70 miles south of Wilmington, MYR primarily serves domestic travelers but also offers some seasonal international flights.
Approximately 200 miles northeast of Wilmington, ORF provides a range of domestic flights and some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority demographic group in Wilmington, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A substantial demographic group in Wilmington, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and community.
An increasing demographic group in Wilmington, representing various cultures and backgrounds.
A smaller yet growing demographic group in Wilmington, adding to the city's multicultural landscape.
A very small demographic group in Wilmington, with historical significance to the region.
Includes individuals from mixed or other racial backgrounds, reflecting a tapestry of identities within the city.
The Soul of Wilmington
Discover the essence of Wilmington through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Wilmington, with local teams and leagues promoting youth and adult participation.
Wilmington has a rich baseball history, including the Wilmington Sharks, which draws fans to minor league games.
Soccer is growing in popularity, with youth leagues and clubs fostering a strong community around the sport.
Tennis is widely played in Wilmington, with numerous public and private courts available for residents.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a popular sport in Wilmington, attracting both locals and tourists to its beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilmington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Wilmington offer vegetarian and vegan options, with some establishments specializing in plant-based cuisine. Examples include Sealevel City Gourmet, known for its innovative vegetarian dishes, and Veggie Wagon, a market and cafe with a diverse plant-based menu.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find accommodating options at several eateries in Wilmington. Sweet n Savory Cafe offers a dedicated gluten-free menu, while Rx Restaurant and Bar and PinPoint Restaurant are known for their willingness to cater to gluten-free diners with flavorful, safe choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Wilmington with these cultural adventures.
