Just
minutes from the beaches, Wilmington’s picturesque riverfront emerges from
the Cape Fear River. Gracing its banks is one of the state’s largest
historic districts, numbering approximately 230 blocks. Downtown Wilmington
is a place where revitalization has proceeded with honor, dignity and
respect, preserving the social and artistic heritage of days gone by. See
the historic district's mansions and landmark buildings via horse-drawn
trolley or carriage tour, riverboat cruise, restored trolley car, or take a
walking tour given by some of the port city's most intriguing residents.
Across
the river on Eagles Island rests the majestic Battleship North Carolina,
a restored World War II memorial. There are also other museums for children,
fine art lovers, railroad and history buffs, including North Carolina's
oldest history museum.
Feast
upon the Atlantic Ocean’s bounty of fresh seafood, or enjoy a variety of
ethnic cuisine and regional specialties, all served with Southern flair and
hospitality. Visitors can lose track of time as they browse distinctive
specialty and antique shops, clothing boutiques, shopping complexes, pottery
outlets, and year-round holiday shops.
At
day’s end, relax outdoors and behold nature’s beauty as the sun sinks
into the river. Saunter along historic Wilmington’s riverwalk or taste the
salty ocean spray as you stroll along the beach. Enjoy an evening at the
theatre, a symphony concert, or other exciting nightlife options.
Whatever
your pleasure, the visitor to this historic North Carolina town is sure to
find what they are looking for at North Carolina’s Cape Fear Coast, a
variety vacationland for the discriminating traveler. Visitors find out
first-hand why those who live in Wilmington are fond of saying, “It’s
always a beautiful day at the Cape Fear Coast.”
The
city itself is nestled between North Carolina’s mighty Cape Fear River on
the west and the powerful Atlantic Ocean on the east, has long been known as
the “Port City of Progress and Pleasure.” Founded in 1739, Wilmington
prospered during its early years as a major port and ship-building center.
Today the city continues to flourish.
Boasting
one of the largest districts listed in the National Register of Historic
Places, Wilmington takes pride in its reputation as a leader in preservation
efforts. Along the river, a number of Victorian, Georgian, Italianate and
antebellum-style homes, buildings and churches have been carefully restored
to their original grandeur. Many of these beautiful structures are now used
as museums, shopping venues and bed-and-breakfasts.
Downtown
Wilmington offers eclectic shopping, vibrant nightlife, theatrical
productions, coffeehouses and outstanding restaurants that feature fresh
local seafood and regional specialties. Inland, visitors will find excellent
golf courses, department stores, parks, entertainment complexes, amusements,
plantations, a state university and restaurants galore.
Local
attractions and annual events are as diverse as the city itself. Visitors
can enjoy more than 45 attractions, including day or evening riverboat
cruises, museums showcasing North Carolina artists and history, and a
variety of tours of the historic district, nature preserves, or movie
studios. Traditional festivals such as the N.C. Azalea Festival and
RiverFest, among others, celebrate the area’s arts and culture.
The
city of Wilmington has experienced a dramatic and exciting growth.
With the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream,
some 45-60 miles offshore, Historic Wilmington enjoys a temperate
subtropical climate year-round. It’s no wonder that it is one of the
fastest growing East Coast deep-water ports. Summer temperatures are usually
in the 80s. Seasons are mild, with an average 212 sunshine days and a mean
average temperature of 63.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The average winter
temperature is about 50 degrees.
A
climate like this affords the lucky visitor to take advantage of many of the
sites and attractions available. The Historic Battleship North
Carolina allows visitors to come aboard and experience the North
Carolina’s "Star Appeal". Because she is preserved just as she
was in World War II, the Battleship North Carolina has been the site for
many dramatic documentaries. For those brave souls who are adventurous
the Haunted Pub Crawl is a unique adventure. Guests partake in an
evening of spirituous adventure on a journey to Wilmington's most vividly
haunted pubs. They can revel in the seamy red-light district of yore &
uncover startling truths of life in a violent 18th century port city. From
the disreputable obsession of the merry wench Gallus Meg, to the barbarous
haunts of a notorious madman, it’s an evening of levity & libations!
For
a family outing, be sure to visit Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Open
seasonally, Jungle Rapids is Wilmington’s coolest place to play and a full
day of fun for the entire family. After a full day of activity,
visitors often take in a play at Thalian Hall. The Hall is one of the
oldest and most beautiful theatres in America. THCPA has been in continuous
use since it opened in 1858. Forming the east wing of Wilmington's
magnificent City Hall, the facility hosts over 250 performance events
annually.
Whatever
the interest of any visitor, this historic, yet modern North Carolina city
has something new and interesting for even the most experienced and
discriminating traveler.
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