Things To Do
Battleship North Carolina
The Battleship North Carolina sits along the Cape Fear River and gives you an up‑close look at life aboard a World War II vessel. You can explore the decks, climb through narrow passageways, and see everything from gun turrets to crew quarters. It’s a compact but powerful experience that brings history to life in a memorable way.
Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach offers wide sandy shores, clear blue water, and a breezy, laid‑back atmosphere that feels perfect for summer. Whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding, or just walking the shoreline, the beach gives you bright, open views and an easy coastal energy. It’s a refreshing stop that makes even a short visit feel like a getaway.
Wilmington Riverwalk
The Wilmington Riverwalk stretches along the Cape Fear River with calm waterfront views, historic brick buildings, and a steady breeze that makes the whole walk feel relaxing. As you wander the boardwalk, you can stop into local shops, grab a bite at riverside restaurants, or watch boats drift by from one of the overlooks. It’s an easy, inviting stroll that turns a simple walk into a charming way to experience downtown Wilmington.
Fort Fisher Ferry
The Fort Fisher–Southport Ferry offers a calm, scenic 30‑minute ride across the Cape Fear River, with wide‑open coastal views that make it a refreshing break from the road. Leaving from Fort Fisher puts you right near the historic site, and once you dock in Southport you can wander its waterfront parks, browse local shops, and enjoy fresh seafood by the water. It’s an easy, memorable trip that feels like a small adventure all its own.
Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Fort Fisher State Historic Site sits at the southern tip of Pleasure Island, where quiet trails wind through the remains of massive earthworks that once guarded the Cape Fear River. As you walk the shaded paths and look out toward the water, you get a clear sense of the history that unfolded here and the strategic role the fort once played. With its mix of coastal scenery and well‑preserved landmarks, it’s a peaceful, meaningful stop that turns a simple visit into a moment of reflection on the past
Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a peaceful stretch of winding paths, live oaks, and bright seasonal blooms that make every visit feel calm and refreshing. You can stroll past freshwater lakes, explore the butterfly house in warmer months, and take in the beauty of the famous Airlie Oak, which has stood for centuries. With its mix of gardens, water views, and quiet corners to wander, it’s an easy, memorable stop that feels like a breath of fresh air.
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site
Old Brunswick Town sits quietly along the Cape Fear River, where shaded paths lead you through the remains of a colonial port and Civil War fortifications. As you walk past brick foundations, live oaks, and river overlooks, you get a peaceful sense of the history that once shaped the region. It’s a calm, reflective stop that turns a simple visit into a moment of stepping back in time.
