Things To Do
Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand and surf, perfect for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying the ocean views. If you’re staying at Shell Island Resort, you’ll have private beach access just steps from your room, making it easy to enjoy the sand and waves at any time. For guests not staying at the resort, there are plenty of public access points nearby so everyone can enjoy the beach. Whether you want a peaceful morning walk along the shore, some afternoon sun, or a fun evening by the water, Wrightsville Beach offers the perfect backdrop for your weekend.
Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a historic 67 acre public garden in Wilmington, just a short drive from Wrightsville Beach. The grounds are filled with winding walking paths, lakes, sculptures, lush greenery, majestic oak trees, and glimpses of local wildlife. While spring brings many colorful blooms, October is still a wonderful time to visit. The mild weather and changing foliage create a serene setting perfect for a peaceful stroll, outdoor photos, or a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Indochine
Indochine is one of our favorite spots in Wilmington and a place we love to eat together whenever we can. Their vibrant Thai and Southeast Asian menu is full of flavor, from rich curries to fresh noodle dishes and unique house specialties. We love the lively, garden-style atmosphere and beautiful decor, which makes every meal feel special. If you are looking for a delicious dinner while exploring Wilmington, this is one of our must-try favorites.
Long Leaf Park
Long Leaf Park is one of our favorite places in Wilmington to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. We love walking the trail around the pond and spending time together in the peaceful green space. It is a simple, calming spot that has become part of our story. If you have time during the weekend, it is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.
The Cargo District
The Cargo District is one of our favorite spots in Wilmington to explore and soak up the city’s energy. We love wandering through the shops, trying local bites, and discovering little hidden gems along the way. Its vibrant, lively atmosphere always makes our visits feel special. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon enjoying the sights, flavors, and spirit of Wilmington.
Cape Fear Games
Cape Fear Games is one of our favorite local spots for a fun and laid‑back outing. It’s a great place to grab a coffee or snack at the attached cafe and dive into all kinds of board games together. If you’re looking for something different to do during your visit, it’s a cool place to relax, laugh, and make memories.
Downtown Wilmington Visitor Information
Historic Downtown Wilmington is one of our favorite places to explore on foot, with charming streets full of shops, restaurants, and beautiful river views. We love how easy it is to park and walk everywhere as you discover new spots around every corner. If you want more details about local attractions, the Wilmington Visitor Center is a great stop to pick up maps and recommendations. It’s a perfect place to soak in the history, atmosphere, and energy of the city.
Gelarto
Gelarto is one of our favorite sweet stops in Wilmington when we want something refreshing and delicious. They serve authentic Italian gelato with flavors that change with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try. We love grabbing a cone together and wandering around town while we enjoy it. If you’re looking for a tasty treat during your weekend, this is a perfect place to cool off and indulge.
Mayfaire Town Center
Mayfaire Town Center is one of our favorite places to shop, stroll, and grab a bite while enjoying a relaxed, open‑air atmosphere. We love exploring the mix of boutiques, restaurants, and cafés, and it’s the perfect spot to take a break between beach days or sightseeing. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a sweet treat, or just a fun place to walk around, Mayfaire has a little bit of everything. It’s a great place to enjoy some local flavor and sunshine during your visit.
Tap Tea Bar
Tap Tea Bar is one of our favorite little spots and somewhere we love going together. We usually stop in for milk teas or fruit teas, and it has kind of become one of our simple, go to date traditions. A cute little fun fact is that Tap Tea Bar started as one small café and, after a few years, expanded into multiple locations. We just think it is really cool to see how much it has grown while still feeling like the same relaxed and welcoming place we first loved.