Summer Like a Local in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, NC is a hot spot for summer travel…and for good reason! With some of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast, a vibrant downtown, an incredible food scene, and activities for every type of traveler, you can’t go wrong.
But I didn’t want to put together the same list of things to do that you can find everywhere else. As a local, these are some of my favorite things to do in the summer when I’m not at the beach (speaking of, click here for my Wilmington Beach Guide!).
Stroll Along the Riverwalk
The riverwalk is a gorgeous place to take a stroll, especially around sunset! Grab a book and sit on one of the benches for a peaceful retreat, or get some exercise with a scenic run or jog! This is also one of the best places to grab a bite or a glass of wine with a gorgeous river view. If you’re into history, you can find the Battleship North Carolina right across the river!
Bike Through UNC Wilmington
Summer is the best time to take in how beautiful the UNCW campus really is. With all the students home for summer break, locals love riding bikes or taking walks across the campus and admiring the architecture, green spaces, and pavilions.
Explore Local Farmers’ Markets
If you love local produce, plants, crafts, and artisan goods, you have to check out some of the area’s seasonal farmers’ markets (there are a bunch of them!). For coastal vibes, head over to the Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market on Mondays or the Kure Beach Market on Tuesdays. And on Saturdays, you can spend your morning at the Riverfront Farmer’s Market in historic downtown. Get the full list of local markets here.
Friday Concerts at The Eagle’s Dare
Known for their great cocktails and killer beer garden, this retro hot spot offers free concerts every Friday! If you love live music, food trucks, and dog-friendly outdoor seating, you’ll love hanging out at The Eagle’s Dare.
See What’s Blooming at Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a gorgeous botanical garden that blooms with seasonal beauty! The summer is the perfect time to take in all the bold colors and lush greenery, and to also catch a show at their Summer Concert Series. Check out what’s in bloom before planning your trip!
Go Thrifting on Castle Street
If you’re a thrifter, Castle Street is a great strip in historic downtown with some of the area’s best thrift stores. Grab a coffee and hunt for a pre-loved trasure, from books to clothes to antiques and more!
Take the Ferry to Bald Head Island
If you love a ferry ride, cruise on over to Bald Head Island! As an underrated day trip destination, you can rent golf carts or bikes and explore the gorgeous beaches, check out the historic lighthouse, and grab dinner at Jailhouse in the marina before heading back to the mainland.
And Obviously…Dining Downtown!
There are so many places to grab a bite and a drink in Downtown Wilmington! If you’re a foodie, check out our series on Wilmington dining for some of the best award-winning restaurants in the area, loved by locals (and me!). You can find Part 1 of the series HERE.
As one of the fastest growing cities on the east coast, Wilmington is the perfect destination for anyone looking to settle down with both urban amenities and easy beach access. If you’re ready to find your dream home on the Carolina coast, I’d love to help!
Click here to schedule a free consultation call with me and start your home buying process in Wilmington, NC.
