Wilmington Riverwalk
Whether you’re an adventurer or just want to take in the scenery, Wilmington Riverwalk offers something for everyone. The trail is also a great place to find unique shops and delicious restaurants!
Dylan Lee, a City of Wilmington spokesperson, said the area around the marina may have been backfilled, which could explain why some areas are sinking. A full investigation is underway. Learn more by clicking here.
The History
The Riverwalk is a beautiful wooden walkway that’s bordered by some of the most historic buildings in downtown Wilmington. The city named this area a historic district 30 years ago and anything new that gets built must blend in with the old look!
Take a walking tour that highlights the city’s rich history, including the struggles of its enslaved people. The Lower Cape Fear Historical Society offers several tours throughout the week. I’d recommend the Poplar Grove Plantation tour which highlights life on a coastal peanut plantation.
The Burnett Eaton Museum is also a must-see. This house museum is a labor of love that highlights the city’s tragic and inspiring racial history. The house is filled with artifacts from three generations of the family who lived there.
The Attractions
While Wilmington is steeped in American history, it’s also a vibrant 21st-century city with plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options to suit any traveler. The Wilmington Riverwalk is a scenic stretch of boardwalk that runs along the Cape Fear River and is a great place to stretch your legs and take in the sights.
The nearby Bellamy Mansion is a historic home and plantation that highlights the lives of the wealthy Bellamy family and their enslaved people. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone interested in US history.
Take a tour of the famed battleship USS North Carolina. The experience includes access to a deck of the historic ship and is one of the best things to do in Wilmington. Discover more exciting places here.
The Food
The Wilmington Riverwalk is full of great food and drinks. From burgers to pizza, local seafood to authentic Mexican dishes, this area has something for every appetite.
Sip creative craft cocktails and enjoy stunning views of the WWII Battleship NORTH CAROLINA from Cloud 9 Bar & Lounge. You can also enjoy a delicious menu of appetizers and small plates.
Rooster & The Crow is one of the best restaurants in Wilmington for classic Southern cuisine with a twist. They are renowned for their barbecued pig feet, but you can also sample other delicious treats like fried chicken and beignets or bananas that foster French toast.
Fork N Cork is a cozy scene serving even cozier comfort foods. It started as a food truck and is now one of the most popular restaurants in Wilmington.
The Shopping
The pretty 1.75-mile Riverwalk runs alongside the Cape Fear River. Strolling along it is one of the best things to do in Wilmington. At night, the Riverfront hums with entertainment. From a world-class theater to a historic home tour to a minor-league baseball game, there’s something for everyone here!
In addition to a riverside walking path, the River District offers fun shopping in charming local boutiques and specialty stores. Discover new treasures in the 19th century Cotton Exchange’s eight restored buildings filled with 30 boutiques and restaurants or shop on 3rd, 2nd, and Front Streets for beach chic boutiques and destination malls.
Kids will love the train-themed Museum of the Bizarre and the kid-friendly Liberty Bell. Adults can get a closer look at the history of transportation communication in the USS Battleship North Carolina. Poplar Grove Plantation is among the last peanut plantations in the country, and it hosts exciting events throughout the year.
The Entertainment
Wilmington hosts a wealth of events to keep visitors busy throughout the year. Take a step back in time at the annual Thalian Hall Bluegrass Bash or let loose at the wildly popular Riverfest, an all-inclusive festival that delivers miles of fun to Wilmington’s downtown area.
The beautiful 1.75-mile Riverwalk is a favorite stroll for visitors and locals. This scenic boardwalk runs alongside the Cape Fear River and offers easy access to downtown Wilmington attractions, like the historic USS North Carolina Battleship. Every Saturday morning during the summertime, this lovely boardwalk is home to an incredible farmer’s market with plenty of locally-owned businesses.
Sports fans can cheer on the Wilmington Sharks, the city’s summer collegiate baseball team that plays in the Coastal Plain League. Many locals love watching Minor League Baseball as it feels more approachable and down-to-earth than big league ball. Find out more!
Driving directions from Crystal Clear Shine to Wilmington Riverwalk
Driving directions from Wilmington Riverwalk to Greenfield Park