Amy & Jason
Things To Do
North Carolina Aquarium At Fort Fisher
During the holiday they decorate the aquarium in Christmas Lights.
Downtown Wilmington
Experience downtown. Small city feel. Plenty of shopping, restaurants, and breweries/ bars. During the holidays there is also a Christmas Tree at Riverfront Park and a horse and carriage ride in the same area. The Riverfront gives you a nice view to look across the river to the battleship. **Please remember this is a city and crime does happen downtown. If you stay on Water Street and Front Street you will be fine.**
Battleship North Carolina
A 5 minute Uber ride will take you to the other side of the river to the battleship. You can walk through the battleship as the battleship has been turned into a museum. This was the first newly constructed battleship to enter service during World War II.
Wilmington Railroad Museum
This is within walking distance from the hotel. During the holiday season they have a light display as well. A non-profit dedicated to preserving the history of the Atlantic Coast Line.
Airlie Gardens
During the holiday season this is very hard to get into as tickets are purchased well in advance. The ticket is per car load. It is a self guided 0.5 mile tour. From what I hear it is a lot like Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania. I am going to try and grab a few tickets when they go on sale if anyone is interested just let one of us know.
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science
I would suggest taking an Uber to this location. Explore the areas culture. This is North Carolina's first history museum.
The Cotton Exchange
It is within walking distance to the Hilton and Marriott downtown. There are 30 shops and restaurants. Part of the downtown experience. There is parking behind the building. If you make a purchase in the cotton exchange, be sure to get your ticket validated for free parking.
Thalian Hall
Thalian Hall is a historic city hall and theatre. They perform shows like the Nutcracker during Christmas. Check out the website for listings and ticket prices.
Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Requires an Uber ride. Near area of the aquarium. This is the site of the Civil War's largest Amphibious (Land and Water) Battle. It is near the area of the aquarium.
Bellamy Mansion Museum
Restored 10,000 square foot house and re-created grounds boasting one of the few preserved slave quarters in the country.
Wrightsville Beach
Since it is lovely here in North Carolina in December check out one of our FREE beaches. Requires an Uber.
Cameron Art Museum
Requires an Uber. International, national, and local artists.
Breweries
Most within walking distance. Depending how many local beers you try. -Front Street Brewery -Ironclad brewery -Edward Teach Brewing Company
Pour Taproom
Within walking distance and be glad it is. Picture beer and wine fest and taste testing all in one. Here you pay PER OUNCE not by the glass! Don't like it? Who cares? Move on to the next.
Restaurants
- Fork and Cork: known for their burgers, locals recommendation, bar and grill -Copper Penny: Philadelphia themed bar and grill another locals recommendation -Front Street Brewery: yes, they sell a MUG of bacon
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site
Fort Anderson is a mid 19th century fort. It was used as a Confederate Fort during the American Civil War.
Blue Moon Gift Shops
Would require transportation. Over 100 artisans, retailers, and entrepreneurs fill over 8,500 square feet. Selections of home accessories, furniture, art, pottery, hand blown glass, apparel, hand crafted jewelry, baby gifts, coastal décor, lamps, photography, gourmet fudge, and local NC products.
Myrtle Beach
Want to extend your trip? Depending on where you want to go in Myrtle Beach it's only about an hour away.
Greenfield Park
5 mile walk. Skate park. Great architecture. Alligators that are so used to people they come right up to the boardwalk like walking path, hoping you didn't read the sign, and give them food.