Best In NC » North Carolina Coast » Greater Wilmington Area
Greater Wilmington Area
Discover the perfect mix of history and coastal beauty in the Greater Wilmington area of the North Carolina Coast. Rich history, historic streets, riverfront views, and a vibrant arts scene await you. Enjoy waterfront dining and the region’s unique cultural heritage.
Greater Wilmington Area Hot Spots
Looking for popular cities and towns in the area? See below.
Travel & Leisure
Best attractions, hotels, and romantic getaways
Our Top 3 Picks
- Explore Historic Downtown Wilmington
- Explore Fort Fisher State Historic Site
- Enjoy Wrightsville Beach
Our Top 3 Picks
- Battleship North Carolina
- Historic Downtown Wilmington
- Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Our Top 3 Picks
- Blockade Runner Beach Resort
- Hotel Ballast Wilmington
- Shell Island Resort
Our Top 3 Picks
- Wrightsville Beach
- Airlie Gardens
- Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk
Outdoor Activities in the Greater Wilmington Area
Top hiking, water sport activities, and adrenaline activities
Our Top 3 Picks
- Carolina Beach State Park
- Halyburton Park
- Brunswick Nature Park
Our Top 3 Picks
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in Wrightsville
- Kayaking Kure Beach with Kayak Carolina
- Boating off the Kure Beach
Our Top 3 Picks
- Zip Line at ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure
- Skydiving at Cape Fear Regional Jetport
- Jet Ski Rentals at Carolina Beach
Restaurants & Dining in the Greater Wilmington Area
Best dinner, lunch, brunch, and breakfast spots
Drinks & Bars in the Greater Wilmington Area
Best beer, wine, and cocktail bars
Culture & Entertainment in the Greater Wilmington Area
Top museums, venues, festivals, and events
Our Top 3 Picks
- Cape Fear Museum
- Cameron Art Museum
- Bellamy Mansion Museum
Our Top 3 Picks
- North Carolina Azalea Festival
- Riverfest in Wilmington
- Cape Fear Craft Beer Week
Posts Related to the Greater Wilmington Area
Editorial Process:
Experts make our reviews before being written and come from real-world experience and research. Read our editorial process here.
Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which can compensate us at no cost to you if you purchase from our partners. We’ve personally researched, used, and stand behind these products. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
Greater Wilmington Area Quick Links
- North Carolina Coast
- Greater Wilmington Area
- Best Things To Do
- Best Attractions
- Best Hotels
- Best Romantic Getaways
- Best Hiking
- Best Water Activities
- Best Adrenaline Activities
- Best Dining
- Best Lunch
- Best Brunch and Breakfast
- Best Bars
- Best Wine Bars
- Best Cocktail Bars
- Best Museums and Galleries
- Best Music and Nightlife
- Best Events and Festivals