Things To Do In Wilmington, North Carolina, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

February 1, 2024

Wilmington, North Carolina, with its historic streets, moss-draped oaks, and stunning waterfront, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and coastal beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Wilmington has something for everyone. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 5-day trip, along with information on the city’s history and weather throughout the year:

Brief History:

Founded in 1711, Wilmington is one of the oldest cities in North Carolina. It played a significant role in the Civil War and retains its historic character with beautifully preserved antebellum architecture.

Weather:

Winter (December-February): Mild temperatures (average highs in the 50s F), occasional rain showers.
Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather (average highs in the 70s F), occasional rain showers.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid (average highs in the 80s F), thunderstorms possible.
Fall (September-November): Comfortable temperatures (average highs in the 70s F), possible rain showers.

5-Day Itinerary:

Day 1:

Morning: Explore the historic downtown area, starting with the Cape Fear Courthouse and the Thalian Hall performing arts center.
Afternoon: Take a boat tour or dolphin cruise on the Cape Fear River to learn about the local ecosystem and see some amazing wildlife.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant like The Pilot House or Catch.

Day 2:

Morning: Visit the Airlie Gardens, a 67-acre estate with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a butterfly house.
Afternoon: Take a walk or bike ride through the Greenfield Lake Park, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Evening: Catch a show at the historic Wilmington Community Theatre or listen to live music at one of the many bars and clubs in the downtown area.

Day 3:

Morning: Learn about the city’s history at the Latimer House Museum, a restored antebellum mansion.Carolina
Afternoon: Visit the Battleship North Carolina, a World War II battleship that is now a museum ship.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of the many breweries or wineries in the Wilmington area.

Day 4:

Morning: Take a day trip to one of the nearby beaches, such as Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, or Wrightsville Beach.

Afternoon: Go kayaking or paddleboarding in the Masonboro Island Reserve, a nature preserve with a variety of habitats.
Evening: Have a picnic dinner on the Riverwalk, a pedestrian-friendly walkway along the Cape Fear River.

Day 5:

Morning: Do some shopping at the shops and boutiques in the Cotton Exchange district.
Afternoon: Visit the Cameron Art Museum, which houses a collection of American and European art.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many restaurants in the historic district before heading home.

Additional Activities:

Visit the Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, a Civil War-era fort that is now a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Go on a ghost tour of the historic downtown area.
Take a cooking class and learn how to make some traditional Southern dishes.
Relax on the beach and soak up the sun.