Location: Wilmington
Top Things to do in Wilmington
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What to do and see in Wilmington, North Carolina (NC): The Best Nature & Parks
Wilmington is a vibrant riverfront city and the most accessible coastal area in the state. The pedestrian-friendly Riverwalk winds along the Cape Fear River, connecting many of the city’s shops, cafés, and nightlife with waterfront hotels, parks and the Port City Marina. Annual festivals, such as Riverfest, Wilmington Beer Week and the world-famous North Carolina Azalea Festival, attract crowds year-round. Three nearby island beaches offer even more dining, attractions and water sports.
Restaurants in Wilmington
1. Masonboro Island Reserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 51 reviews
Reviewed By debbiebQ4569TE
Enjoyed this with teenagers on a field trip! Was very beautiful and excellent resource for our state. The beach and marsh, what an educational opportunity for our students! Wish the weather had been better, was rainy, windy and very cold. Really want to come back and visit again. Super place!
2. Sea Turtle Camp
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 83 reviews
Sea Turtle Camp is a life enriching marine biology experience. We offer a variety of adventure programs lasting from a few hours to a few weeks.We can cater to your specific group size and age profile. Through this multidimensional marine biology program, participants will gain a life changing appreciation for coastal conservation. Come "Sea Life" differently!
Reviewed By williamhV1051YZ
Our 14 year old son has wanted to be a marine biologist. Sea Turtle Camp gave him the beginnings of this experience. He earned his open water certificate and looks forward to qualifying for his advanced open water certificate. The camp counselors were contentious and caring. With the pandemic I thought the arrangements provided everyone safety and protection. Sea Turtle Camp provided a wonderful summer experience, and I would recommend it without reservation.
3. Cape Fear River
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
The most industrialized of all North Carolina's rivers, this water system stretches 200 miles through the heart of the North Carolina piedmont, crossing the coastal plain, and empties into the Atlantic near Southport.
Reviewed By Vis2r
Walk along Cape Fear, see the Battleship, US Coast Guard, stroll through the streets & visit historical places & shops, explore amazing book stores & beautiful old buildings & restaurants. So much to see & enjoy here...great food, beautiful town & you may even want to take a river cruise or a horse & carriage ride, but definitely take the walk. Parking can be difficult...I recommend visiting the Cotton Exchange, park there & parking is validated with a purchase--there's so much to see & do inside the Cotton Exchange, quaint shops & good food. If you're interested in the "haunts" of Wilmington...The Cotton Exchange is a great place to explore the paranormal. There's several haunts & information is provided within.
4. New Hanover County Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 249 reviews
Reviewed By ladyme1 - Portland, United States
We considered this more a botanical garden than an arboretum. The gardens, sculptures an entire area was well thought out and absolutely gorgeous. Parking lot with free parking. The Japanese Garden was perfect. Highly recommend.
5. Halyburton Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 69 reviews
Reviewed By Jill_WilmNC - Wilmington, United States
This is one of the nicest city parks. Great walking trails -- a big paved loop and lots of unpaved trails over the dunes and through the woods. There is also a nice playground for the little ones, a park building and restrooms.
6. Power of Play
7. Greenfield Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 115 reviews
Reviewed By BirdingFreak - Atlanta, United States
This somewhat underappreciated gem in Wilmington has a well-kept walking path around the lake perimeter. I recommend a paddle among the cypress trees. It can be very atmospheric at any season. There are homeless here, as in almost any park anywhere these days, but also many families and young people enjoying themselves. There are some nice groves for picnicking or hanging out. Very much worth a visit.
8. Hugh McRae Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 102 reviews
Reviewed By pppnikki - Charlotte, United States
Very large, well maintained park right in the middle of town- Very easy to find. Take your kids or your dog or just go walk the beautiful trails, visit the gazebo and the turtles! Great for kids- playgrounds, splash pad, ball fields, gorgeous trees and flowers everywhere!!
