Wilmington

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Wilmington's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Wilmington Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day at Wrightsville Beach with a sunrise walk along the shore. Grab breakfast at a beachfront cafΓ© with fresh local options.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the Atlantic. Alternatively, rent a paddleboard for a fun adventure on the water.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the water. End the night with a stroll on the beach and watch the sunset.

day 2
Historic Wilmington
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Start with a hike through the scenic trails of Halyburton Park. Enjoy birdwatching and observing local wildlife in the tranquil environment.

afternoon
:

Have lunch in the park's picnic area, surrounded by nature. Then, take a kayak out on the nearby waterway for a peaceful paddling experience.

evening
:

Relax with a casual dinner at a burger joint with outdoor seating. Wind down with a bonfire at a local park if available.

day 4
Riverwalk and Waterfront Fun
morning
:

Stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk, taking in views of the Cape Fear River. Make a stop for coffee at a riverside cafΓ©.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries on the waterfront. Spend the afternoon on a riverboat cruise, enjoying the scenery and learning about the area.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a canal-side restaurant specializing in Southern cuisine. Stay for live music in the area to end your day on a lively note.

day 5
Art and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Cameron Art Museum to admire contemporary and historical art exhibits. Participate in any workshops or events happening during your visit.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a nearby cafΓ© and then explore the galleries in downtown Wilmington, shopping for local art. Don't miss the vibrant street art in the area.

evening
:

Have dinner at an eatery known for its artistic ambiance. Consider attending a local art show or exhibit opening to mingle with artists.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Kick off with breakfast at a family-friendly diner before visiting the nearby Jungle Rapids Water Park. Enjoy thrilling water rides and play areas for kids.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the park before continuing your adventurous day. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Airlie Gardens, where children can explore the beautiful grounds.

evening
:

Wrap up with a casual dinner at a pizzeria. Conclude your day with a movie at a local theatre.

day 7
Nightlife Exploration
morning
:

Sleep in and enjoy a late breakfast at a downtown bakery. Spend the morning wandering through the local shops in the area.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a popular local cafΓ©, then visit the North Carolina Theatre for a matinee performance. Take a moment to explore the nearby historic sites.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy gastropub. Experience Wilmington's nightlife at local bars and live music venues for a night to remember.

day 8
Day Trip to Pleasure Island
morning
:

Start early and head to Carolina Beach for a day of sun and surf. Enjoy breakfast with an ocean view before setting up by the beach.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the boardwalk, then take advantage of the amusement rides and games. Spend the afternoon paddleboarding or beachcombing.

evening
:

Dine at a beachside restaurant known for its casual seafood. Enjoy a relaxed evening with beachfront bonfire activities if available.

day 9
Biking and Nature
morning
:

Rent bikes and ride along the scenic Cape Fear River Trail. Stop for a picnic breakfast by one of the parks along the route.

afternoon
:

Continue your biking adventure to the nearby Riverwalk. Choose a spot for lunch, followed by exploring the local parks.

evening
:

Have dinner at a casual sports bar featuring local brews. Catch a sunset over the river for a picturesque end to your day.

day 10
Taste of Wilmington
morning
:

Begin your day with a classic Southern breakfast at a local favorite. Explore local markets for some unique food finds.

afternoon
:

Join a culinary tour for lunch, sampling signature dishes from various eateries. Learn about Wilmington's food culture and its farm-to-table approach.

evening
:

Have dinner at a renowned restaurant known for innovative dishes. Consider a dessert stop at a local ice cream shop to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Discover Wilmington

Read more in our Wilmington 2024 Travel Guide.

Wilmington Travel Guide