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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Washington is notable for its exceptional natural beauty, which includes three national parks, more than 8,000 lakes, and 155 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline. However, the Evergreen State is also among the wealthiest in the nation; in 2022, the median household income in the state was $84,247, nearly $6,000 higher than the national average.
Major corporations like Microsoft and Amazon call Washington home, and there are plenty of excellent job opportunities there. Even though the Seattle area is still a popular place to relocate, there are many other towns throughout the state's interior and along its coastline that entice newcomers with their picturesque surroundings, outdoor-oriented lifestyles, close-knit communities, and family-friendly amenities.
Here are 7 of the best places to live in Washington state, as rated by locals.
Best Places To Live In Washington State
It can be tough to zero in on one city to call home when you choose the Washington state to pick from. But we are listing the best places to live in Washington state to make your life easier. Take a peek.
Cheney
It's worth considering other universities in eastern Washington besides Gonzaga. Eastern Washington University, a public university with 11,000 students and 800 faculty members, is located in Cheney. Although EWU is not the biggest university in the state, a sizable portion of Cheney's population attends it. The population of the city is about 10,600 during the summer months. In academic terms, this increases to 17,600 inhabitants.
For students who prefer to be fully immersed in campus life but are concerned about getting lost in a bigger city, EWU is an excellent choice. Families looking to live or work close to a university may find it to be a good alternative to other towns on this list. Cheney is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Washington state for young adults.
Spokane
Although many of the greatest areas to live in Washington are located in the east, people tend to concentrate on the western side of the state. In stark contrast to the rainy weather in Seattle, the eastern portion of the state is level and experiences a desert climate. Spokane, which is located near the Idaho border, is the 99th most populous city in the country. With 500,000 residents, Spokane serves as a hub in opposition to Seattle.
For those who prefer to be outside, Spokane is a sanctuary. Within a few hours of the city, one can find hiking and rafting in addition to ski resorts. The men's basketball team at Gonzaga University, which is based in Spokane, draws fans from all over the nation. In the NCAA March Madness tournament, the Bulldogs are always a formidable opponent.
Portland
In the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is not the only significant city. The Columbia River divides Washington and Oregon, with Portland, Oregon, situated along its border. Nike and Columbia Sportswear have their corporate offices in Portland, a sizable city.
Vancouver, Washington is the state across which Portland is located. Many people who live in this city make the daily commute into Oregon. One city to another can be reached by car in fifteen minutes, although traffic may make it take longer. The fact that Washington does not impose a state income tax is one advantage of relocating to Vancouver. This can save you money.
Ocean Shores
The coast of Washington has many of the best places to live, with huge rocky outcroppings and thick fog making for enigmatic and fascinating beach walks. Selecting the best city to stay in along the Pacific Ocean is difficult. One well-liked location is the town of Ocean Shores, which is home to about 6,000 people.
If you enjoy going fishing and cooking your catch, Ocean Shores is a great place to call home. It is known for the Razor Clam and Seafood Festival held every year in the spring. Sand and wood artists from all over the nation come to the Sand and Sawdust festival in the summer. For those who enjoy the sea and the arts, this town is fantastic.
Olympia
Seattle is not the capital city of Washington, despite its size. It is Olympia's turn to receive this honor. Both cities are situated near water, and they are about an hour's drive apart with minimal traffic. Olympia has 46,000 people living in it, far fewer than Seattle.
Olympia is a center for theater and the arts. Fine art organizations such as the Olympia Symphony Orchestra as well as the Olympia Family Theater are popular among the locals. Families can enjoy hiking or lounging on the waterfront with unobstructed views of Mount Rainier on the weekends. Whether you work in government, this is a great city to live in.
Tacoma
Those who wish to live in a more tranquil area but still commute into the city frequently choose Tacoma, which is only thirty minutes from Seattle's downtown. Known for Port Defiance, a park and family recreation area combined, it is situated along the water.
Look into Tacoma if you want to live in the Seattle region but are having trouble locating the perfect spot. This town offers waterfront living in addition to being a center for the art and culture. You might find that there's more to do than you thought. Tacoma will prove to be more than what you expect. It is easily one of the best places to live in Washington state.
Seattle
Seattle is not only Washington's most populous city, but it also has a large metropolitan area spanning the Puget Sound. Many locals drive and ride their bicycles for work, averaging 138 hours a year (28.4 minutes each way) in the downtown area.
Nonetheless, a lot of people believe that living in Seattle is worth the expense and commute. Along with dozens of other businesses, the city is home to the corporate offices of Amazon, Microsoft, Costco, Expedia, Alaska Airlines, and Starbucks. Seattle is home to the NFL's Seahawks, MLB's Mariners, NHL's Kraken, and NBA's Supersonics. Seattle is for you if you like a work-hard, play-hard lifestyle.
What Is The Pacific Northwest?
The states in the northwest of the nation that are bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cascade Mountain Range to the east are collectively referred to as the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The two states that are mentioned in the PNW the most are Washington and Oregon. But the area also includes portions of California, Idaho, and Alaska.
Does Washington Have A State Income Tax?
Nine states do not impose an income tax, including Washington. The following states don't have a state income tax: Florida, Alaska, Nevada, Tennessee, and Texas. States without income taxes either decrease the services provided to citizens or find other ways to raise money. To avoid paying taxes, some Washingtonians commute to Oregon.
What Is Seattle Famous For?
In addition to being the birthplace of Starbucks, Seattle was once home to a sizable grunge music scene. The city has gained notoriety over the last ten years as the home of Amazon and is a sought-after location for tech companies to establish their operations. Living in the city has become more costly as a result.
Wrapping Up
States like Washington are our favorites because they have so many wonderful cities to choose from. There were so many, in fact, that we had to start by providing you with a list of three towns that you should definitely visit.
We understand that you may be experiencing analysis paralysis right now. Where does one call home with so many wonderful options? If you're searching for a large city, Seattle is the only option. There is no doubt about that. However, if you're willing to settle for a somewhat smaller city, Spokane or Tacoma are a better option than Seattle.
No matter where you choose to call home, never forget that we will assist you in getting there. Let us know if you choose to relocate to Washington. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about the best places to live in Washington state, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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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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