Wilmington Winter Guide: Best Things to Do in the Cooler Months
Wilmington, NC, transforms into a cozy and charming destination during the winter months. While the beaches may be quieter, there’s still plenty to see and do, from festive events to indoor adventures. Here’s your guide to the best winter activities in Wilmington, complete with links and details to plan your perfect visit.
1. Visit the Battleship North Carolina
Experience history aboard the Battleship North Carolina (910-251-5797), a World War II-era battleship docked along the Cape Fear River. Winter is a great time to explore this iconic attraction without the summer crowds. Take a self-guided tour and learn about its storied past while enjoying river views.
2. Stroll the Downtown Wilmington Riverwalk
The Wilmington Riverwalk offers a serene winter stroll with fewer tourists. Bundle up and explore the shops, cafes, and art galleries that line this scenic boardwalk. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate from Bespoke Coffee & Dry Goods (910-769-4088).
3. Explore Airlie Gardens’ Enchanted Airlie
During the holiday season, Airlie Gardens (910-798-7700) transforms into a winter wonderland with its annual “Enchanted Airlie” event. Stroll through the illuminated gardens adorned with festive lights and seasonal displays. Tickets often sell out, so plan ahead for this magical experience.
4. Discover Local Museums
Winter is the perfect time to dive into Wilmington’s rich history and culture at these indoor attractions:
- Cape Fear Museum: (910-798-4370) Learn about the natural and cultural history of the Cape Fear region.
- Cameron Art Museum: (910-395-5999) Explore exhibitions featuring local and international artists, plus winter art workshops.
- Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens: (910-762-0570) Tour this historic 18th-century home and learn about colonial life in Wilmington.
5. Indulge in Wilmington’s Culinary Scene
Warm up with delicious food and drink at some of Wilmington’s top spots:
- The Pilot House: (910-343-0200) Enjoy Southern cuisine with a view of the Cape Fear River.
- PinPoint Restaurant: (910-769-2972) Relish farm-to-table dishes with seasonal ingredients.
- Front Street Brewery: (910-251-1935) Wilmington’s oldest brewery is perfect for craft beer and comfort food.
6. Attend Wilmington’s Winter Events
- Holiday Flotilla: Celebrate the season with this iconic boat parade at Wrightsville Beach.
- Polar Express Screenings at Thalian Hall: (910-632-2285) Enjoy family-friendly holiday movie screenings in a historic theater.
- New Year’s Eve Downtown Fireworks: Ring in the new year with a spectacular fireworks display over the Cape Fear River.
7. Shop Local for Holiday Gifts
Support Wilmington’s small businesses by shopping for unique holiday gifts at:
- The Cotton Exchange: A collection of boutiques housed in historic buildings downtown.
- Lumina Station: An upscale shopping village with charming shops and eateries.
- Blue Moon Gift Shops: A hub for locally made art, jewelry, and more.
8. Take a Day Trip to Southport
A short drive from Wilmington, Southport offers a charming winter escape. Stroll through this historic seaside town, visit the Maritime Museum (910-477-5150), or enjoy fresh seafood at Provision Company (910-457-0654).
9. Explore Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Head to Fort Fisher (910-458-5798) for a peaceful walk along the beach or a visit to the North Carolina Aquarium (910-772-0500). Winter is a great time to enjoy this area without the summer crowds.
10. Cozy Up in a Wilmington Vacation Rental
Finally, there’s no better way to enjoy Wilmington in the winter than by staying in a cozy vacation rental. Whether you prefer a beachfront escape or a historic downtown property, Navigate Rentals offers the perfect accommodations for your visit. Contact us to find your ideal winter retreat.
Wilmington in the winter offers a quieter, more intimate charm while still providing plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. Use this guide to plan your perfect seasonal getaway!