Things to Do

Wilmington Downtown Riverwalk

Wrightsville Beach

Julia's favorite beach access is #4 (N Ridge Ln, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480).

The Cotton Exchange

Lots of local shops and restaurants. Across the street from the Hotel Ballast. Also, validates parking for customers who park in their lot.

Cape Fear Museum of History and Science

The Children's Museum of Wilmington

This is a great option for anyone with younger children.

Battleship North Carolina

Airlie Gardens

The Arboretum

Free to visit!

Wrightsville SUP

Great for kayak and paddle board rentals.

North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

A short drive from Wilmington. And also close to several other attractions. It is also possible to take a ferry (N.C. Ferry System) to Southport from Fort Fisher for $1. Bring a car for an additional fee.

Bald Head Island

Bald head island is only accessible by passenger ferry. They have nice beaches and walking trails.

Boombalatti's Homemade Ice Cream

There are locations in both Downtown and on Military Cutoff (closer to the Allen's house and Wrightsville Beach).

Kohl's Frozen Custard & Kitchen

By far, the best frozen custard in Wilmington. Located in a shopping center on Wrightsville Beach. Walkable from many of the beach accesses. Also, located next to the original Trolly Stop location.

Trolly Stop

The original store is located Wrightsville Beach. There are a few other locations open now. This is considered by many to be a Wilmington staple.

The Green House Restaurant

Julia's favorite restaurant in Wilmington.

The Basics

Southern cuisine.

The Copper Penny

A Wilmington favorite.

Indochine Restaurant

Ceviche's

Panamanian cafe.

Savorez

Latin American fusion restaurant.

Catch

Specializes in North Carolina seafood.

True Blue Butcher and Table

The original True Blue restaurant. An elegant restaurant and butcher shop.

True Blue Butcher and Barrel

Similar to True Blue Butcher and Table, but a slightly more relaxed atmosphere and located in the South Front District.