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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Most of us associate a fun night out on the town with the glistening lights and countless clubs throughout New York City. However, let's not forget that New Jersey also offers some of the most unforgettable experiences if you know where to look. What type of nightlife can this state provide? If you are planning an excursion in the near future, the selection of clubs and similar attractions found below will certainly come in handy.
New Jersey Clubs to Enjoy During Your Stay
To be absolutely clear, there are literally thousands of different clubs found throughout New Jersey. There is still a handful that has received rave reviews over the years.
Will you be visiting northern New Jersey? If so, be sure to check out 46 Lounge. Found within the town of Totowa, this club boasts a mixture of top-40 hits, hip-hop, club, and house music. You can also enjoy three separate bars, a tropical outdoor patio, and a dance floor that remains open until three o'clock in the morning.
Central New Jersey is home to the famous Avenue Nuit Nightclub. Often considered the be the chicest club in the state, expect nothing less than the very best once you walk through the doors. Avenue Nuit is host to well-known DJs from around the world and a rooftop bar provides you with spectacular views of the evening stars.
Finally, Kix McNutley's is another amazing venue to experience if you will be traveling through southern New Jersey. This club is actually a combination of five different bars and each one offers its own bespoke ambiance. Live bands play on a weekly basis and some claim that Kix is the most popular club to be found along the Jersey Shore.
Be sure to check out this page for an even more comprehensive list of New Jersey clubs. This will also provide you with additional information before hiring a professional party bus in NJ.
Consider Reading: Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know
Atlantic City
It only stands to reason that Atlantic City is mentioned within this article. Often dubbed the Las Vegas of the East Coast, there are plenty of ways to have fun during your stay. From visiting the world-famous Hard Rock Cafe to strolling along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk into the wee hours of the morning, you will not leave disappointed.
If you are a fan of casinos, never miss out on a chance to visit these top-rated venues:
Resorts Casino Hotel
Bally's Atlantic City Hotel & Casino
Borgata Casino
Caesar's Atlantic City Casino
Even if you are not an avid gambler, let's remember that these very same establishments offer world-class entertainment, top-tier restaurants, and tasty cocktails are only moments away.
New Jersey is indeed one of the most fun and exciting places to visit if you are searching for stimulating nightlife. As always, make it a point to perform additional online research so that you can plan the upcoming trip accordingly.
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Are you traveling solo? You must know that solo traveling is the biggest trend this spring as Airbnb experiences a 90% surge in year-on-year searches.
This reminded me of my last solo trip to Zion National Park in spring. But why is a Zion National Park Tour so exciting in spring?
In this Tour and Travel guide, I will share a detailed overview of spring at Zion National Park, the weather conditions, and the things to do.
Zion National Park Basic Information: Location: 1 Zion Park Blvd. Springdale, UT 84767Hours Open: 24*7Entry Fee: $20-190
Spring At Zion National Park: What’s So Special About It?
March and April are the spring months in Zion National Park. The days in the park are warmer, helping the wildflowers like Claret cup cactus grow.
However, the nights can be cold as at Zion National Park, there is a change of temperature of around 30 degrees F between day and night.
Further, the accessibility of the higher areas in the park depends on the amount of snowfall in a particular winter season.
Again, when the snow melts, the water level in the river rises. So, the Narrows in the park may remain inaccessible during spring and early summer.
Despite these challenges, spring at Zion National Park is busy with the park shuttle services and The Human History Museum resuming their operations. With the return of the park shuttles, spring is the best time for a scenic drive across the park.
Month Number of Visitors (Average Number from 2019-23)% of Visitors March343,1418%April364,9938%
Furthermore, you can even plan camping at the Zion National Park in spring as the Watchman Campground opens this season.
Spring At Zion National Park: Know The Weather Conditions
Zion National Park enjoys pleasant weather conditions during March and April. With decreasing cloud in March, you also enjoy better clarity or visibility.
Further, the chances of precipitation are quite low in these two months. The table below gives you a better idea of the weather conditions at Zion National Park in March and April.
MonthsHighest Temperature (Degree F)Lowest Temperature(Degree F)Precipitation ChancesMarch48-69 27-4111-17%April55-7633-489-11%
So, a day-long hike or camping in Zion National Park is most suitable during these months. But, what are the other things to do at Zion National Park in spring?
I will discuss them in the next section.
Things To Do During Spring At Zion National Park
Spring at Zion National Park is the best for hiking, camping, scenic drives, learning, and guided tours.
1. Hiking
With a seemingly endless amount of hiking trails, spring at Zion National Park is the season of exploring. Visit Weeping Rock or check out the sights as you hike Angels Landing, just to name a few.
Further, the hiking trails with stunning views are ideal for hikers of all skill levels.
For example, if you are looking for a peaceful and easier hike, The Narrows offering the chance to slip through scaling walls of color, will be the best choice.
Check if the Narrows are closed before you head to the park.
The Zion Canyon Overlook trail and The Watchmen trail offer moderate-level hikes, while trails like Angels Landing and The Subway Trail are challenging.
Tour And Travel Note
Angels Landing is considered to be the most dangerous hike in the country. People fall off the tall chunk of rock, because of no guardrails.
2. Camping
Unfortunately, the South Campground of the park remains closed this season for a long-term rehabilitation project.
So, if you want to camp at the Zion National Park in spring, you only have the Watchman Campground. The Lava Point Campground does not open before May.
Nevertheless, the Watchman Campground, accessible from March to September, is close to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and the south entrance in Springdale.
You will get potable water and firewood for sale at the Watchman Campground sites. However, all sites are available on a reservation basis.
Do you want to know about the reservation, amenities, and fees of the Watchman Campground? You can call (435) 772-3256.
3. Scenic Drives
The scenic drive route through Zion National Park runs for around 54 miles. The route starts at Highway 9 and stretches to Mt. Carmel Junction.
Usually, it takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete the scenic drive.
During the drive, you will cross the visitor area in the park and visit the Zion Canyon and Checkerboard Mesa area along with all the iconic landmarks.
4. Learning
https://www.instagram.com/p/CeTjKIXueGW/
Your visit to the Zion National Park in spring is incomplete without the learning experience at the Human History Museum.
The museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM. However, it has extended hours of operation in summer.
The Human History Museum is the perfect combination of stunning visuals and educational information regarding the park and surrounding areas and cultures.
Here, you’ll find a 3D model of the park and learn more about the American Indian culture and early inhabitants of the area, as well as the creation of the park itself.
Moreover, you can buy books and souvenirs from the Museum shop.
5. Guided Tours
Exploring the vast landscape of Zion National Park with an expertly trained and fully knowledgeable tour guide is a lifetime experience.
The crafted guided tours through the first national park in Utah give you various perspectives about nature, geology, wildlife, and iconic landmarks of the park.
Further, some of these guided tours are available seven days a week.
Moreover, you can take part in various adventure activities through these guided tours. So, try horseback tours, rock climbing, jeep tours, and hiking.
Let’s Enjoy Spring At Zion National Park
Yes, spring at Zion National Park is lovely with clear skies. However, the threat of cold, rain, and sleet still exists and you must keep yourself updated with the latest weather developments.
Mornings and evenings bring chilly temperatures. So, be prepared with beanies, gloves, long underwear, light jackets, and long-sleeved shirts.
Further, wear sunscreen as the Sun shines brighter and the day becomes warmer.
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Finding the right summer destination that offers a wide array of activities for all your family members can be a daunting task. However, opting to go for vacation in Myrtle Beach for the summer is a decision you will most definitely not regret.
For years, millions of travelers have been thronging Myrtle beach during the summer holidays. Myrtle Beach offers tourists extensive tourist attraction sights, a favorable subtropical climate, and numerous festivals and cultural events in the beach city (features that check all the boxes for any traveler).
Read now to find top reasons why this beach city is highly favored as a top summer destination.
Here are the top reasons Why Myrtle Beach Is the Ideal Summer Destination
Regardless of whether you're looking for a solo getaway or merely looking for a family excursion with family, Myrtle Beach should have you covered. So what makes Myrtle Beach stand out from the rest? Can you guess how long myrtle beach is? 60-mile long beach is the greatest tourist attraction.
Here are the prime reason for choosing Myrtle beach as the ideal summer destination.
1. The Extensive Beach
One of the best places you can spend your summer is on the beach. This is why millions of people visit Myrtle Beach every summer to enjoy the extensive sandy beaches. Myrtle Beach has access to a coastline that extends for about 60 miles from Cherry Grove all the way to Surfside beach.
Once your toes sink into the sand of the beach, you will forget every concern or worry you have in your mind and will be taken aback by feelings of serenity thanks to the calming sounds of the cool ocean water. Many travelers are asking about how many hours to myrtle beach, South Carolina, only 9 hours drive.
The long stretch of coastline makes it great for travelers to indulge in water activities and games along the beach. Couples can also enjoy long romantic walks in the mornings and evenings right before sunrise and sunset.
2. Different Forms of Entertainment
If you are looking for a location that’s ideal for your whole family, then your children or grandchildren will have fun at the Family Kingdom Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach.
If you are looking for a location that’s ideal for your whole family, then your children or grandchildren will have fun at the Family Kingdom Amusement Park in Myrtle Beach.
Visiting this amusement park will also bring back your childhood vacation days to life. The massive park covers more than 13 acres of land and is situated close to the sea. The best thing about this park is that it's free for the public, and you don't need any particular subscription to get access to the park facilities.
If you're not into the old-fashioned rides, then you can entertain yourself and your family at the Pelicans. This Myrtle beach minor league team gives visitors a remarkable opportunity to get acquainted with some of America's favorite pastimes at a very pocket-friendly price.
The Pelicans are set up in a stadium with seats arranged near the beach to give visitors the best experience.
If you’re looking to have a bit of mature fun, you can explore the fantastic Myrtle beach nightlife by attending the amazing clubs scattered across the city.
3. Ample Dining
The best vacations are not only for filling your family photo albums but for filling your tummies as well. One of the things that make Myrtle beach stand out is the fact that it has many dining destinations that cater to families.
When you visit this city during the summer, you can rest assured that you and your family will have a wide array of options that will trigger your taste buds for the better. Restaurants in Myrtle Beach are hall manned by professional chefs who strive to offer the best cuisines from the state and worldwide.
If you happen to have a sweet tooth, you can check out the Sugar Life Ice Cream and Candy Bar for different options of confectionaries such as waffles and ice cream, among many others. Your kids will really appreciate it but make sure they don’t indulge too much.
4. Shopping Experience
Is it even a vacation if you don’t raid the local courier shops for souvenirs or anything that appeals to your persona? Myrtle Beach offers an incredible shopping experience for everyone, so make sure you set some money aside to do some shopping.
Whether you are a severe or not-so-serious shopper, you can rest assured that shops, such as the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove will have something for you.
You can also check out the open-air markets such as the Market Common, where you are guaranteed to experience an entire village of residents, restaurants, and shops to explore.
5. Summer Festivals
One of the best things about Myrtle Beach is that it has near-perfect weather all year round. However, it's the summer that really springs Myrtle Beach into life. With an average temperature of 80 degrees through the summer, the weather is more than perfect for festivals designed to impress both the young-at-age and young-at-heart.
While some are huge with people traveling from all across the world, others are aimed at celebrating the local culture. One of the biggest celebrations is the Wings Over Myrtle Beach Air Show that features a squadron of Blue Angels famous in the Blue Crab Festival in Carolina.
With so many festivals in the city during the summer, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from which is worth your time. Clemson is another popular tourist destination. You may be asking about how far iClemsonon from myrtle beach you only require five hours to reach the destinations.
6. Best Summer Hotel Deals
Summer comes with some really amazing hotel deals that you can take advantage of. With vacations being quite expensive because of the high tourist traffic in the area, many hotels often have great deals to lure tourists.
Some of the summer hotel deals you will find will turn your weekend getaway into an extra-long weekend getaway. For instance, the Sea Watch Resorts offers great discounts and sometimes even free stays during the summer.
If you visit Myrtle Beach and make it your favorite, as many other tourists have, you can choose to buy property in the area so you can visit at any time you’d like instead of waiting for deals and discounts on accommodation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is so special about Myrtle Beach?
A: It is the mini-golf capital of the world. Myrtle Beach is all about a long white sand beach that has warm water that you will feel while swimming. It is also a place where you will get uncountable seafood options.
Q2. Why is Myrtle Beach Is called Dirty Myrtle?
A: Myrtle Beach is one of the famous beaches in America. The reason to call it dirty Myrtle Beach is that it refers to any kind of drink and a mud run.
Q3. Is Myrtle Beach crowded in the summer?
A: If you visit Myrtle Beach at the beginning or end of summer, there will be no crowds. But if you visit the place in the months of May or September, then you experience the infamous crowds in Myrtle Beach.
Q4. Should I avoid Myrtle Beach?
A: Myrtle Beach is known for its extreme weather. Therefore try not to plan your trip during the month of July and August because the summer hits very hard. The same goes for winter, avoid visiting this place during the month of December, January and February.
Bottom Line
It's one thing to go on vacation and another to enjoy your vacation. No two travelers are alike, and finding an ideal location with a variety of activities for every family member can be difficult but it doesn’t have to be with Myrtle Beach. The location has become a favorite holiday destination for many because of its affordable hotels, top-notch restaurants, vibrant festivals, and pristine sandy beaches.
If you’re looking for a lively trip with your family or a solo getaway, Myrtle Beach is a fantastic destination for families, adventurers, foodies, and sightseers.
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