Downtown Wilmington Travel Guide
Wilmington
Visit Downtown Wilmington
Popular places to visit
Wilmington Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in Wilmington Convention Center during your trip to Wilmington. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event in the area.
The Cotton Exchange
During your visit to Wilmington, you can search for that perfect souvenir at The Cotton Exchange. Wander through the beautiful beaches and riverfront in this family-friendly area.
Wilmington Railroad Museum
You can study the exhibits at Wilmington Railroad Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your holiday in Wilmington. Wander the beautiful beaches and riverfront in the area.
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Enjoy the student vibe at University of North Carolina at Wilmington during your visit to Wilmington. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or attend a sporting event.
Riverwalk
After visiting Riverwalk, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Wilmington. Amble around the area's riverfront or experience its festivals.
Battleship North Carolina
Take a tour of the lead ship of North Carolina-class battleships and learn about U.S. Navy history in a unique and adventurous way.
Things to do
Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour
Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour
THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
Two- Hour Group Surfing Lesson in Cocoa Wrightsville Beach, NC
Top hotels in Downtown Wilmington
Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Clean rooms. Staff was nice and very helpful. In walking distance to downtown.
Reviewed on 15 Mar 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront
All great!!
Reviewed on 15 Mar 2026
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Room had a great view and it was very spacious and clean. The roof top bar was amazing. It was very convenient to have coffee, breakfast, dinner and drinks on site. Everything we purchased food and drink wise was excellent! The staff were also polite, professional, and welcoming.
Reviewed on 15 Mar 2026
ARRIVE Wilmington
Staff was friendly and check in/out went smoothly. AC was locked and couldn’t get down to my preferred temp at night. They charged a $50+ fee automatically for discounts at their restaurant and gazebo bar, but neither was open during my visit. Self-parking is $15/night.
Reviewed on 12 Mar 2026
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn
Very nice people and great prooerty
Reviewed on 17 Mar 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown/Historic District
Great location great staff
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
Check Downtown Wilmington hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Wilmington
Riverfront District
If you're spending some time in Riverfront District, Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts are top sights worth seeing.
Wilmington Historic District
Wilmington Historic District is known for its stunning river views, and with sights like Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Wilmington.
Brooklyn Arts District
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Brooklyn Arts District and surrounding area, you can visit Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion.
Soda Pop District
Though Soda Pop District may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College.
The Bottom
While The Bottom may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Cape Fear Museum and Bellamy Mansion Museum.
Northside
Though Northside may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College and Live Oak Bank Pavilion.
