A beautiful Atlantic port city in coastal North Carolina, Wilmington has been home to a thriving community for nearly 300 years. Even if you’ve only got 48 hours to spend in the area, you’ll still be able to take in delicious food, a few tourist attractions, and more natural beauty than you thought possible.
Day One: Exploring Wilmington
Breakfast at the Cobblestone Café – You’re going to need to charge your batteries for a busy day, and breakfast at the Cobblestone is a strong start. Enjoy build-your-own pancakes, delicious omelets and coffee that will put a kick in your step. Plus, it’s right on the water!
Spend the Morning on Battleship North Carolina – The decommissioned USS North Carolina pulls dual-duty as Wilmington’s star attraction and a somber memorial to North Carolinians who lost their lives in World War II. Tour the deck of the ship, gun turrets and the many compartments to get a feel for what it means to serve in the Navy.
For Lunch, You’ve Got to Try Chop’s – A few hours touring a battleship is sure to work up an appetite – one that can be filled by the monster sandwiches at Chop’s Deli. For those who prefer a lighter lunch, give one of their many salads a try.
A Walk Through the New Hanover County Arboretum – Although we’re a major city, Wilmington has a lot of green space perfect for getting some fresh air. The Arboretum is one such space, occupying seven acres with gardens and lush natural beauty. If you’re in Wilmington on an autumn weekend you just might see a wedding as well!
Dinner at the Black Sea Grill – It’s back downtown for dinner at the Black Sea Grill, an intimate but wildly popular restaurant featuring Chef Cem Aktas and his Mediterranean cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended.
Take a Late Night Stroll on the Riverwalk – Finish off the evening with a stroll along Wilmington’s famed Riverwalk, a one-mile boardwalk that runs along the Cape Fear River in Historic Downtown Wilmington. If dessert is calling, duck in to Kilwin’s Ice Cream for a treat.
Day Two: Getting to Know the City
Beach Bagels for Breakfast – Beach Bagels is known throughout the Wilmington area for offering bagels that are as close to ‘Manhattan’ as you’re going to get this far South. Enjoy breakfast and pack a sandwich or two for the road so you can enjoy lunch on the go.
Get Your Morning Fitness at Wrightsville Beach – You’ve come to the cost, so your trip isn’t complete unless you spend some time on the sands of Wrightsville Beach. Whether you’re a fan of yoga, running or just lazying around pretending to exercise, a morning spent in the sunshine and fresh Atlantic air will do you well.
Spend the Afternoon Touring Beautiful Homes – Since you’re already here in Wilmington, be sure to check out some of the incredible real estate opportunities that our city has to offer. Call our offices and we’ll be happy to show you around. In the meantime, you can view our listings page to see what’s on the market.
Enjoy Dinner at Manna – Your final food stop is Manna, Wilmington’s hot spot for American cuisine. The restaurant incorporates fresh local ingredients with an ambiance that is best enjoyed with your favorite cocktail. Again, dinner reservations are recommended.
Live Theatre at Thalian Hall – Catch some live theatre to close out your stay in Wilmington. Thalian Hall hosts a diverse array of live performances and cinematic film showings, perfect for the art lover.
Your 48 Hours in Wilmington, NC
Your 48 hours in Wilmington will be a bit of a whirlwind, but one that you’re sure to enjoy. Thanks for visiting our community and we hope to see you again on a more permanent basis!
