Well, like this George Michael song, I also believe that December is the month that brings “Peace on Earth.” And Christmas celebrations are nowhere more diverse than in the USA.
In 2024, it was Orlando that stole all the limelight with a record surge in the tourism development tax (TDT) during the Christmas holiday. According to a report on Florida Politics, TDT of Orlando in December 2024 was $31.8 million.
Casandra Matej, the CEO of Visit Orlando, had shared a statement on this revenue surge. He said, “Orlando ended 2024 with strong travel performance in December.”
Furthermore, for the last few years, the Christmas Markets in New York, Chicago, Denver, Cincinnati, Minnesota, Portland, and many other places have been the biggest attractions for domestic and international visitors. These markets, inspired by the European Christmas Bazars, also bring a positive impact on the local economy.
However, it’s not just the Orlando theme parks or the Christmas markets that make December in the USA special. The best places to visit in December cater to every type of traveler. Find all the details in this Tour and Travel Blog.
How To Choose The Best Places To Visit In December? (With A Summary List)
I have considered a few factors to choose the USA locations for the best winter vacations. The table below provides a summary of the factors considered and identifies the best locations according to them.
Factors Considered
Best Places to Visit in December
Warm Escapes
• Maui and Oʻahu in Hawaii • Miami, St. Augustine, and the Florida Keys in Florida • U.S. Virgin Islands • Puerto Rico
Mild Weather Conditions
• Leavenworth, WA • Bethlehem, PA
Snowy Destinations
• Aspen, CO • Whitefish, MT
City Charm and Festivities
• New York City • New Orleans
Offbeat Locations if You Do Not Want to Visit the Popular Favorites
• Alamosa, Colorado • Phoenix, AZ
Budget Locations
• Asheville, NC • Charleston, SC
What Are The Best Places To Visit In December In The USA? (A Detailed Discussion)
Here is the ultimate bucket list for the best places to visit in December in the USA. Know why December is special in these locations, the weather conditions, local favorites, must-do activities, and more.
1. Warm Escapes
Hawaii and Florida will be the best places to visit in the USA if you want to enjoy the ultimate tropical experience in the mainland of the USA. However, you can also explore the appeal of the Caribbean destinations such as the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
• Maui, Hawaii
Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius
December marks the beginning of the whale watching season in Maui. Snorkeling at Molokini Crater is another major attraction in Maui.
Furthermore, to soak in the festive spirit, be a part of the Festive Luau and cherish Hawaiian cuisine.
• Oʻahu, Hawaii
Temperature: 20-28 °Celsius
The Honolulu City Lights festival is the main attraction in Oʻahu in December. Furthermore, the Christmas Eve cruises and beach meals are the best things to try in Oʻahu, Hawaii.
• Miami, Florida
Temperature: 17-25 °Celsius
The Bayfront Holiday Village is the epicenter of Christmas festivities in Miami, Florida. It has an ice skating rink and a Ferris wheel ride that offers an amazing view of the surroundings.
Pinecrest Gardens, especially the Banyan Bowl, is another major Christmas attraction in Miami.
• St. Augustine, Florida
Temperature: 9-20 °Celsius
St. Augustine’s Nights of the Lights is one of the oldest Christmas festivities in St. Augustine, Florida. With three million white lights illuminating the city during Christmas, National Geographic already named Nights of Lights one of the “10 Most dazzling light displays” in the world.
Furthermore, Booking.com has named St. Augustine as one of the “World’s Most Welcoming Cities” in 2025. For the 2025-2026 Christmas celebration, Pinkmas again returns to St. Augustine to build on the success of 2024.
• The Florida Keys, Florida
Temperature: 10-24 °Celsius
Florida Key West gets ready for the Christmas season with the Key West Holiday Parade. Furthermore, the Winter Wonderland is a major attraction with snow showers and an ice skating rink.
• U.S. Virgin Islands
Temperature: 20-27 °Celsius
Along with the Christmas festivities, the U.S. Virgin Islands is now gearing up for the announcement of the Department of Tourism and the Division of Festivals regarding the St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival.
It will start from 26th December 2025 and continue till 3rd January 2026.
• Puerto Rico
Temperature: 20-29 °Celsius
Puerto Rico has the longest holiday season, with the holidays continuing from November to mid-January. Nochebuena or Christmas Eve is the highlight of the Christmas celebration here. It is an occasion to feast on traditional delicacies such as arroz con gandules with family.
Furthermore, Parrandas, or the Christmas caroling from one house to another, is an experience.
2. Mild Weather Conditions
From the official Christmas Town of the USA to the Christmas Capital of the Pacific Northwest, these are the places to visit in the USA for mild weather conditions.
• Leavenworth, WA
Nights of Lights is one of the oldest Christmas festivities in St. Augustine, Florida.
Temperature: 1 to 4 °Celsius
Leavenworth is the Christmas Capital of the Pacific Northwest, and in December, it bustles with energy with German-style markets.
Furthermore, the Bavarian charm of Leavenworth stands out with more than 500,000 lights illuminating the city.
• Bethlehem, PA
Temperature: 7 to 14 °Celsius
The historic Moravian district of Bethlehem City is the ideal zone to enjoy a walk during Christmas.
Also, the Christkindlmarkts or the German-style Christmas open markets are the main tourist attractions in Bethlehem, PA.
3. Snowy Destinations
December is the month of snow and chill in various parts of the USA. Enjoy some skiing fun and snowy escapes.
• Aspen, CO
Temperature: -12 to 2 °Celsius
The 12 Days of Aspen festival in Aspen from 20th to 31st December sets the festive mood right in Aspen. Furthermore, Aspen gets transformed into a winter wonderland with fresh snowfall starting in December.
December, with fresh snowfall, is the season of skiing in Whitefish, Montana. Furthermore, Christmas Eve and Christmas Stroll are the major winter festivals in Whitefish.
4. City Charm And Festivities
Are you traveling with your family? These cities are ideal for enjoying Christmas festivities and decent weather conditions.
• New York City
Temperature: 1-8 °Celsius
The Rockefeller Center, Central Park, and the 5th Avenue in New York City are some of the busiest destinations in New York City during the month of December.
Furthermore, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular from November to January is another major reason for visiting New York City in December.
• New Orleans
Temperature: 9-17 °Celsius
New Orleans is one of the most Christmassy places to visit in December in the USA, and is a close second to Bethlehem in Pennsylvania.
It is so popular for its unique Christmas traditions.
New Orleans Christmas Traditions
Details
Krewe of Jingle Parade
The Christmas Parade Version of Mardi Gras
LUNA Fête at the Convention Center Pedestrian Park
Art Show of High-tech Light Installations
Celebration in the Oaks in City Park
Decorating with Millions of Lights
Bonfires on the Levee
A Cajun Tradition of Lighting Bonfires on the Mississippi River Levee on Christmas Eve to Guide Santa Claus
5. Offbeat Locations If You Do Not Want To Visit The Popular Favorites
If you are looking for something less touristy this Christmas, Alamosa and Phoenix are two hidden gems you cannot miss.
• Alamosa, Colorado
Temperature: -18 to 1.5 °Celsius
Alamosa is gearing up for the 15th Christmas Light Parade this year. Furthermore, the winter season is the ideal time to take a bath in the hot springs of Alamosa, such as the Sand Dunes Recreation hot springs.
• Phoenix, AZ
Temperature: 7-19 °Celsius
Phoenix will be the go-to destination for all the Shane Gillis fans this December. This celebrated comedian will perform at the PHX Arena on 5th December.
Furthermore, it is the ideal time to trek through the trails of Camelback Mountain.
6. Budget Locations
Traveling to the USA this December on a budget? Here are the beautiful locations you can visit.
Blessed by the Blue Ridge Mountains and their snowy peaks, Asheville in North Carolina is a winter wonderland. It is also home to the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned property in America. It is decorated with lights for Christmas.
The Holiday Parade of Boats and Holiday Festival of Lights are two of the biggest attractions in Charleston in December.
Furthermore, the Charleston City Market is fun to explore, with Charleston having fewer crowds in December.
Along with these, you can also pick your favorite based on the best places to visit during early December and late December or during the Christmas days.
Places to Visit in the USA in Early December
Places to Visit in the USA in Late December
• Leavenworth, Washington • New York City • Las Vegas, Nevada • San Diego California
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania • Frankenmuth, Michigan
The places to visit in the USA in Late December are also the most Christmassy destinations in the country.
The Best Places To Visit In December In The USA: How A 7-Day Itinerary Will Look Like?
From arriving in New York City to spending beach days in Hawaii, this is how your 7-day itinerary of December holidays in the USA will look.
Days
Location
Activities
Insider Tip
Day 1
New York City
• Visiting the Christmas Tree and Fun at the Ice Skating Rink at the Rockefeller Center • Exploring the Bryant Park Winter Village and its beautiful Christmas Markets • Watching a Broadway show in the evening and taking a stroll of the 5th Avenue
Plan Your Stay at Midtown Manhattan Book the Slot for Your Ice Skating Rink in Advance
Day 2
Asheville, North Carolina
• Take a Morning Flight to Asheville from New York City via Charlotte. • Explore the River Arts District to have the best coffee and find local crafts. • Visit the Biltmore Estate, turning into a Christmas Wonderland in December. • Enjoy the local brews and live jazz music in the evening.
Find a Cozy Cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains for the Most Romantic Experience.
Day 3
Charleston, South Carolina
• Drive for 4.5 hours or take a short flight from Asheville to Charleston. • Explore Rainbow Row, King Street, and The Battery. • In the evening, visit the historic James Island County Park’s Festival of Lights.
Plan a stay in a boutique hotel in the Historic District.
Day 4
Miami, Florida
• Fly to Miami for 2 Hours • Spend the morning at South Beach. • Visit Little Havana for the best Cuban food and coffee. • Enjoy a sunset cruise in the Biscayne Bay.
Explore and book the transportation options well in advance, as the public transportation options are limited.
Day 5
Florida Keys
• Drive through the Overseas Highway for 2.5 hours to reach the Florida Keys from Miami. • Stop at Key Largo for photos. • Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West.
Find an accommodation in Key West.
Day 6
Aspen, Colorado
• Fly to Aspen from Florida via Denver. • Enjoy snowboarding and skiing at Aspen Snowmass.
Don’t miss the best hot chocolate and cocktails served at the mountain lodges here.
Day 7
Oʻahu, Hawaii
• Take an overnight flight to Honolulu. • Explore Diamond Head Crater and Waikiki Beach. • Relax at Hanauma Bay in the afternoon. • End your day with a luau dinner.
Larger crowds and higher prices are a concern while visiting Oʻahu in December. So, make your bookings early.
Things To Keep In Mind For A Trip To The USA In December
First of all, don’t rush! You don’t have to cover all the places and touch upon all the landmarks.
1. Spend Some Time In The Places You Visit
You must take it slow to connect to local people and soak in the unique charm of the place you are visiting.
For example, Bethlehem in Pennsylvania is known as the Christmas City of the USA. You can spend a good 3-4 days here, exploring its history, German-inspired traditions, and the open-air Christmas markets or Christkindlmarkts.
2. Consider Advanced Booking And Registration
Furthermore, when you are going to places such as Yosemite National Park and Zion National Park in December, you will need a reservation. This is essential considering the increase in visitors in December and the road blockage/accessibility due to snowfall.
However, advanced booking will also be required for museums such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe. These tickets get sold out daily.
3. Monday Blue Is Real In The USA
Many places in states such as Arizona and Texas remain closed on Mondays. Furthermore, many popular restaurants may not offer full-fledged services until midweek.
What Are The Best Places To Visit In December In The USA? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to visit in December in the USA.
1. Where Is It Cheap To Fly In December?
Major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Atlanta are cheap to fly to in December. Furthermore, warm weather destinations such as California and Florida are also cheap to fly to in the month of December. Furthermore, you can book a flight ticket on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, or make the booking at least 2 months in advance to get the best deals.
2. What US State Has The Best Weather In December?
Hawaii and Florida have the best weather in the USA in December. These two locations are sunny and cheap in December, with places such as Maui and the Florida Keys being the main attractions. Hawaii has an average of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and Florida has an average temperature of 15 to 24 degrees Celsius in December.
3. Where Is The Best Place In America To Spend Christmas?
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is the best place in America for Christmas. Known as the Christmas City of the USA, Bethlehem was founded in 1741 on Christmas Eve. Furthermore, in 1747, the first Christmas Tree in the USA was recorded.
Further, Bethlehem stands out with its old-world charm and unique architecture. Moreover, you can explore the open-air Christmas markets here.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
There is a reason as to why Frank Lloyd decided to make Arizona his winter home. There is no way that the natural beauty, perpetual sunshine, and diverse culture of this region will fail to inspire you. The legacy of this personality continues to live to date in the Phoenix region. There are so many buildings across the region that bear his influence, and design and art reign supreme. From gardens that are full of succulents to performing art, there are so many things to do in Phoenix. Here are some of the inspirations that you are going to find in this valley of the sun.
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Phoenix :
1. Schnepf Farms :
Schnepf farm is a family owned the property for over fifty years. The farm has developed from a very simple crop field to an extensive community hub. It is the head of the organic gardens and orchards of the farm and you can pick your desired product. Visitors are also able to enjoy lunch from its Farmstand café. You can also pick up some favorite delicacies from its on-site country store. It is one of the things to do in Phoenix that will allow you to carry a few things back to your beloved ones back home.
2. Biltmore Dinner :
You can begin by exploring the Arizona Biltmore’s lush grounds before you tuck into Wright’s property restaurant. Its name comes from the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright who was the consulting architect for this property. This hotel is characterized with logical indigenous ingredients that are presented in highly innovative utensils, comparable tea-smoked duck breasts, and the wagyu steak served with chipotle marrow bone butter. Don’t you think this is one of the best things to do in Phoenix with kids?
3. Desert Botanical Garden :
This is among the best things to do in Phoenix this weekend. As a tourist, visiting the Sonoran Desert that is located at the botanical garden will allow you to discover the tranquil beauty of the space. You will have a view of the desert plants that are nestled amidst the red rocks of the renowned Papago Buttes. You will get an exclusive opportunity to explore its five thematic trails and you will discover that it is very easy to get lost amidst the lush trees, brilliant wildflowers, swaths of succulents, and towering cacti.
4. Camelback Mountain :
Mount Camelback is considered as one of the topmost hiking destinations of his country. The place attracts outdoor fans from all over the world. There are two routes that will get you to the top. These include the Cholla trail and the Echo Canyon and both of them will test even those most advanced hikers with steep changes in the elevation and rough terrains. Its payoff is worth the experience even though the 2,700-foot summit provides unparalleled displays of the underneath valley.
5. Taliesin West :
This area is nestled in the foot of the McDowell Mountains of Scottsdale. The beloved winter retreat of Frank Lloyd Wright now houses the famous Frank Lloyd School of Architecture. The general public has an open access to Taliesin West and offers a wide range of tours such as night walks and behind the scene views of his favorite personal art collections. It has a deep connection to the desert that was used to forge it. In fact, it was Wright and his students who build Taliesin West. It is among the most famous personal architectural creations all over the world.
6. The Scottsdale Contemporary Art Museum :
This center is situated on the sprawling park that is at the heart of the downtown. This museum houses the best contemporary architecture, design, and art all over the world. The Scottsdale Contemporary art design stocks everything from the interactive pieces to conceptual art. The beauty of it is that there is always something new that you will view making it one of the best things too soon Phoenix today.
7. Heard Museum :
The Heard Museum has remained as a destination for the Indian American art since 1929. This heard is among the leading destinations for education and art. The museum is well known for its award-winning arts and it makes use of its first-person voice and collections to tell the stories of the Indian American cultures while still celebrating the works of current artists.
8. ASU Gammage :
This tourist attraction site is set in the Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The ASU Gammage program normally brings shows such as ‘Les Misérables,’ ‘The Color Purple,’ ‘Hamilton,’ to this valley and give gives those visitors an opportunity to experience the best that the Broadway has to offer without having to leave the temple. However, its good to plan in advance if you want it to be among your things to do in Phoenix because tickets sell very fast.
9. Kayak the Salt River :
Your Phoenix things to do list will not be complete without visiting this place that is renowned for float trips. There are several ways of experiencing the salt river. You can decide to beat the crowds with the early morning kayak trips. It is a two-hour trip that provides stunning views of the adjacent Tonto National Forest. You will get an exclusive opportunity of spotting the wild horses that the region is well known for.
10. The Temple Town Lake :
The temple town lake was created by damming a portion of the salt river. The lake is two miles long and offers a very welcoming reprieve from the arid desert land of the valley. The lake perimeter is ideal for the afternoon leisure walk and un things to do in Phoenix. You could also get into the waters by renting a boat from the marina.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):-
Q1: What are the top attractions of Phoenix?
A: There are five main attractions in Phoenix
Musical Instrument Museum
Desert Botanical Garden
Camelback Mountain
Heard Museum
South Mountain Park
Q2: What is Phoneix best known for?
A: Phoenix is basically known for its stunning hotel resorts, pools, and desert gardens as well as southwest-infused fine dining. And not to forget the luxurious spas and championship golf courses.
Q3: What is the prettiest city in Arizona?
A: Prettiest? Then it has to be Sedona. The tiny Bisbee is the main reason for Sedona to be titled as the prettiest town by The Dialy Meal, a food, and drink website.
Q4: What is the best month to go to Arizona?
A: The best time to visit Arizona is in winter, December to February. Or maybe during the spring, March to May. These seasons are the best to visit Arizona because it is most temperate and the dessert is in the process of bloom and you can enjoy all the outdoor activities.
Conclusion :
From this information, you will discover that there are so many things to do in Phoenix. You will always get something that you can enjoy irrespective of your passion. You can you’re the region with your whole family and friends and still get the best experience from the region. Apart from these top ten things to do in Phoenix, you can still find more as you visit the area.
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10 Best Things to Do in Prague
10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona (Spain)
10 Best Things to Do in Dublin (Ireland)
When we hear the name ‘Hawaii,’ we can only imagine ourselves sitting at a serene beach with crystal blue waters while sipping on a coconut mojito or attending a luau in Oahu. However, these beaches are not the only thing that one must know about Hawaii. In this article, we have discussed some of the most spectacular and enchanting National Parks in Hawaii that are guaranteed to make you spellbound. Even the magnificent canyons, mind-bogging volcanoes, black-sand beaches, and deep rainforests are among some of the other major attractions for tourists visiting the land.
What Is A National Park?
Any area within a sovereign state that has been preserved or is being used by national bodies for conservation purposes can be termed a national park. In a basic sense, a national park is one or a group of ecosystems that have not been disrupted by human activities and exploitation. It is a space where plants, animals, geomorphological habitats are preserved for scientific, education, or recreational purposes. These areas generally exhibit the wilderness and the truest beauty of nature.
About Hawaii
The credit for one of the most beautiful places on our planet, Earth, can be given to Hawaii. It is a kind of place that can really make you feel like living in your dreams. A part of the United States, the islands of Hawaii are stationed over the Pacific Ocean. Not very far from the mainland, it is located at an approximate distance of 2000 miles from the US. It is an archipelago comprising 137 volcanic islands and has one of the longest coastlines in the country.
It is very evident that Hawaii exhibits a tropical climate due to its location. The days are hot and warm, while the nights are much cooler. However, the temperatures and humidity usually remain on the lesser part because of the constant breezy conditions. The National Park Service in Hawaii is responsible for protecting several natural junctions and areas of the state, contributing towards a better world.
Best National Parks In Hawaii
Let us have a look at the list of National Parks in Hawai:
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you want to travel to any National Park in Hawaii, Big Island, it has to be the Volcanoes National Park. It is one of the most popular and major attractions for tourists around the world. This National Park in Hawaii consists of the world’s largest volcano- Mauna Loa, and the world’s most active volcano- Kilauea. It is the largest national park in the whole of Hawaii. This park portrays a diverse range of ecosystems, varying from barren volcanic mountains and lush green rainforests.
If you want to witness the active and historical lava flows, visiting this park would be the best decision of your life. Although some of the major spots of attraction have been heavily damaged, such as the Jaggar Museum, there is still a lot left to see. The Crater Rim road traverses through the park, and by driving through it, you can experience the most stunning scenic views that the place has to offer.
2. Haleakala National Park
Driving to the summit of the Haleakala National Park and then hiking through the loops and trails is one of the most divine things a tourist can experience. Located on the east side of the Maui islands, the topography of this place depicts it to be a massive crater that is 7 miles across, 2 miles wide, and deeper than 760 meters.
The volcano is not active anymore. However, while hiking, you can get a closer look at the crater. It is home to a variety of endangered species of the world, such as the Hawaiian goose. The location of this park offers the most beautiful scenic views along with sunrise and sunsets. The skies above this area are extremely dark and perfect for stargazing.
3. Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park
This National Park in Hawaii Big Islands is situated on the western Kona coast. This park has been specifically conserved to protect an archeological site that is considered one of the most sacred and momentous areas in the entire state of Hawaii. Well, I am sure you have had a hard time pronouncing the name of this park. I can tell because I have been prey to the same problem.
The name of this national park can be literally translated as the “place of refuge” in the Hawaiian language. The place has been of prime significance due to its historical and cultural background. A 400 years old, L-shaped masonry wall encloses the site. This National Park in Hawaii has several ancient, historical, and reconstructed archeological sites, which include temple platforms, royal fishponds, sledding tracks, etc.
4. Kalaupapa National Historical Park
It is one of the most isolated yet beautiful places in this state. Bearing a storied and tragic past, the Kalaupapa National Historical Park is situated on the islands of Moloka’i. The geological image of the site depicts it to be a peninsula. In the earlier part of history, this place served as an isolation settlement for those suffering from Hansen’s disease (leprosy).
Thousands of people died within that area since the population peaked in 1890. Very few residents are still native to that place. The site has been preserved by the National Park Service. Their main motive is to preserve the cultural and physical aspects of the two leper colonies. The major attractions offered are the house sites, stone walls, and temples, cultivated taro fields, and so on.
Final Thoughts
Well, now you have an entire list of National Parks in Hawaii. If you have already been there once, make sure to spend your time exploring these out-of-the-world sites rather than just spending a lazy time on the beach.
However, if you are visiting for the first time, do put these national parks on your list of sightseeing. The exotic beauty and significant history of these parks are what make Hawaii such a paradise on earth.
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The Memorial Day weekend in 2024 saw an influx of tourists in Wilmington, NC. This even led to temporary employment in the community, with local businesses recruiting more staff to serve more tourists.
Connie Nelson, the director of Public Relations at Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau, has acknowledged this seasonal staffing along with the daily efforts of the lifeguards.
However, the surge in tourists during the Memorial Day Weekend is one of many high points for tourism in this port city. It has always been consistent with its tourism scenario and, is even on the rise recently.
Further, as the location for films like Dawson’s Creek and Iron Man 3, it has earned the nickname “Hollywood East.” So, it’s a favorite among movie buffs.
Moreover, Wilmington, the historic port city on the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, offers a wonderful fusion of city tours, culinary explorations, historic tours, and endless outdoor activities.
Therefore, being named the “South’s Best City On The Rise in 2024” did not surprise those interested in Wilmington tourism.
At Tour and Travel, we have curated some of the best things to do in Wilmington, NC. We want to keep it helpful for all types of travelers. So, we have covered nature and beach experiences, exploring Wilmington’s historic places and culinary scenes.
Best Things To Do In Wilmington, NC For History Buffs
Wilmington, or North Carolina’s Port City, has a long association with history. It takes us back to the Colonial times and since 1739, it has been serving as an important trade and commerce center.
Moreover, the city was associated with the Civil War, the American Revolution, and World War II. Today, you can visit the following historic sites here.
1. Bellamy Mansion Museum
Operating Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
Entry Fee: $7 to $15 (Based on Age Groups and Special Groups, Free for Members and Children Below 5)
Contact Number: +1 910-251-3700
Founded in 1994, the Bellamy Mansion Museum will complete its 30th year in 2024. Today, it stands tall as an example of the finest antebellum architecture in North Carolina.
The museum is housed in a 19th-century mansion owned by Dr. John Bellamy. He lived here with his wife and 10 children. Further, around 115 enslaved people worked for Dr. John Bellamy, and nine resided here.
So, along with the main property of 22 rooms, you must also take a tour of the slave quarters.
Another attraction of the museum is the Bellamy Gift Shop. You can buy plates, spoons, fridge magnets, ornaments, caps, books, bow ties, and other souvenirs from here.
Tour And Travel Note
A Premium Tour of the museum is available. If you are an adult, you will have to buy a ticket for $20 for the Premium Tour.
Students can collect their Premium Tour tickets at $10. However, Premium Tour tickets are not sold online. You have to check the availability and buy yours by calling +1 910-251-3700 (Extension: 308).
2. Battleship North Carolina
Operating Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: $6 to $14 (Based on Age Groups and Special IDs, Free for Children Below 5)
Contact No: +1 910-399-9100
Battleship North Carolina is the most tragic reminder of World War II. It had 15 stars, and today, it remembers 10000 men and women of North Carolina sacrificing their lives to protect America’s freedom in World War II.
Today, the battleship in downtown Wilmington is a common attraction for history enthusiasts. A tour of Battleship North Carolina will take you at least 2 hours. However, you can spend longer.
Furthermore, you can attend interactive programs at Battleship North Carolina throughout the year. These courses are free; you just need to pay the regular admission fee.
Tour And Travel Note
As a history enthusiast, you can support the preservation of Battleship North Carolina. It does not have the regular backing of the USA government. You can be of great help as a donor.
3. Wilmington Railroad Museum
https://www.instagram.com/p/DABdZTGvZBB/
Operating Time: 10 AM to 4 PM
Entry Fee: $8 to $12 (Based on Age and Special Groups, Free for Children Below 2 Years)
Contact Number: +1 910-763-2634
Wilmington Railroad Museum is a place to explore history and indulge in nostalgic activities. Here, you can climb on an old steam locomotive of 110 years.
Further, in this museum, you will learn about the railroad development in Wilmington and the people working on the railway.
Moreover, the Children’s Hall in this museum has interactive models. Your little ones will love those fun models and customized train tables.
Tour And Travel Note
You can get the Polar Express Tickets on Sale on the official website of the Wilmington Railroad Museum. The Polar Express fun takes place every weekend from Thanksgiving Day to New Year.
You will need to pay $5 and a Processing Fee for taking part in this event. The activities include “a reading of the Polar Express,” a surprise visit of Santa Claus and indulging in hot chocolate and cookies.
Did You Know?Built on 1st May 1979, the Wilmington Railroad Museum completed its 45th year in 2024.
4. Cape Fear Museum of History & Science
https://www.instagram.com/p/Csv1rAtISqI/
Operating Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday To Saturday), Sunday 1 PM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: $5-$8 (Based on Age Groups), Free for Members and Children Below 5 Years, Reduced Fee for NARM and ASTC Participants
Contact Number: 910-798-4370
If you want to know about the culture, history, and science of Lower Cape Fear, the Cape Fear Museum of History & Science will be your go-to destination. You will find over 57000 objects here.
It has photographs, a collection of oral history, and digital yearbooks for shedding light on history, science, and culture.
Did You Know?Wilmington became the first designated “American World War II Heritage City” in the USA. It was designated on 2nd September 2020 to commemorate the 75th year of World War II coming to an end.The city got this designation after meeting all the criteria laid out by Congress to preserve the WWII heritage. The city also recognized the veterans and preserved many wartime facilities.
Things To Do In Wilmington, NC: Enjoy Nature, Beaches And Outdoor Activities In Wilmington, NC
Indulging in the beach experience is one of the best things to do in Wilmington, NC. You can visit the following beaches here.
Wrightsville Beach
Kure Beach
Carolina Beach
Wilmington’s fun water activities include Surfing, fishing, chartering, and cruising. You can also just relax at the beaches and enjoy fun moments with your family.
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Wilmington beaches, as the temperature is moderate during these months.
Things to Do in Wilmington, NC, For Foodies And Drink Enthusiasts
Culinary tourism is one of the best things to do in Wilmington. The Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours are already famous. In these tours, you will visit and explore eclectic restaurants and try their assortments of food.
The city is also great for drink enthusiasts with local breweries. Here, we have curated the names of some places to eat and drink in Wilmington, NC.
1. Michael’s On The Waterfront
https://www.instagram.com/p/CzcKC4vPtrT/?img_index=1
Phone Number: (910) 769-4252
Opens at: 11:30 AM
Michael’s On The Waterfront is a family-owned restaurant. you will find the best American cuisines with a coastal Carolina twist Here. The BBQs and pub fries here are the stars. And don’t forget to try the crab and lobster delicacies here.
Furthermore, Michael’s Bar has wines and beers. You can even try the curated cocktails with seasonal flavors.
2. Copper Penny
https://www.instagram.com/p/DAgXoumvg8r/
Phone Number: (910) 762-1373
Operating Hours: 11 AM to 9 PM
It is one of the best American restaurants and bars in Wilmington. You can try here classics like fish and chips and French onion soup.
Further, they make amazing steaks and chicken tenders.
3. The Rooftop Bar
Phone Number: (910) 833-5886
Operating Hours: 5 PM to 2 AM
The corn fritters at The Rooftop Bar are amazing, and their chunks of shrimp are delicious. Drunken shrimp is another favorite of mine here.
Also, you will get the best pina colada here.
4. Rumcow
https://www.instagram.com/p/C-vQgHAvXzc/?hl=en
Phone Number: +1 910-769-4659
Operating Hours: 5 PM to 9 PM
Fall cocktails are great at Rumcow. Further, you must try avocado fries and chicken and waffles here.
Exploring The Art And Culture Of Wilmington: One Of The Best Things To Do In Wilmington, NC
As the designated historic district of the state, Wilmington also has an evolving landscape of art and culture. I have already mentioned places like Bellamy Mansion Museum, Wilmington Railroad Museum, and Cape Fear Museum of History & Science.
However, the city also has many happening centers for performing arts. Here is a quick overview for you.
1. Thalian Hall Center for Performing Arts
Contact No: +1 910-632-2285
John Montague Trimble, one of the pioneering theater architects of the 19th century, designed this performing art center. In fact, today, it is the only surviving theatre designed by him.
This center for performing arts is a converted city hall and it has around 500 performances each year. You can visit this Center for Performing Arts on a guided tour.
2. The Wilson Center At Cape Fear Community College
Contact No: +1 910-362-7999
The Wilson Center has been the host of The Wilmington Symphony, Kinky Boots, and many other Tony Award winning symphonies.
So, spending an evening here watching a comedy or Broadway show is an experience in itself.
3. Kenan Auditorium
Contact No: +1 910-962-3500
The Kenan Auditorium is at UNCW or the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Throughout the year, it houses more than 150 dance performances, musicals, and theatricals.
Also, you can attend the brilliant University productions and award-winning events at Kenan Auditorium.
4. Brooklyn Arts Center
Contact No: +1 910-859-4615
Visiting the Brooklyn Arts Center is like indulging in sheer nostalgia and stories of history. It is a 19th-century church converted into a center for performing arts.
It also has a beautiful private courtyard where you can click beautiful photographs.
Upcoming Events At Wilmington, NC
Here are some important events in Wilmington, NC, in 2024. So, mark the venues and dates.
EventVenueDatesHadestownThe Wilson CenterOngoing, till November 27, 2024Comedian Cipha SoundsDead Crow Comedy Room | Lush LoungeOngoing, till November 23, 2024BUZZWORTHY! Art in the GardenAirlie GardensOngoing, till December 31, 202430th Anniversary Cucalorus FestivalVarious Venues (Historic Downtown Wilmington)Ongoing, till November 24, 2024
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