Wilmington, North Carolina is a city with a rich history. Here, you can find architectural treasures, brick streets, and a connection to America’s history. Indeed, it’s steeped in history dating back to America’s earliest days. When you visit, here are the 5 best historic sites to see.

5 Best Historic Sites in Wilmington, North Carolina
The Wilmington River Walk
First, make your way to the riverfront to the Riverwalk. This wooden boardwalk takes you away from the modern street and lets you see the city from the front of the Cape Fear River. As you walk, you’ll find quaint shops, water taxis, and river view restaurants.


The Cotton Exchange
The Cotton Exchange is a historic building and was once the hub of the cotton industry. Cotton growers of the past brought their cotton here to be woven and sold. Today, it is a combination of historically correct building and modern shopping.


Horse Drawn Carriage Tours
Half a block from the River Walk, you’ll find a horse-drawn carriage tour station. These Percheron horses are rescue horses. The calmest horses are selected from their rescue farm to take riders through the charming and historic homes of the waterfront district. The conductor shares interesting stories about the more colorful residents of Wilmington (think Andy Griffith and Dennis Hopper!). He was also willing to stop to allow this nosy blogger to take photos along the way.


The City Market
Before malls crept up on the outskirts of town, Wilmington, North Carolina’s downtown was the place to shop! The City Market was the original shopping hub of the city. Today, you can still shop for goods indoors to escape the heat!

Tour the Battleship North Carolina
With all the colonial and Civil War-era history in Wilmington, don’t forget to explore Wilmington’s own piece of World War II history. Ride the water taxi across the Cape Fear River and board the Battleship North Carolina. You can see what it was like onboard for those brave sailors.

There’s no shortage of history in Wilmington. In fact, Wilmington offers modern conveniences and blends them seamlessly with nods to its historic past better than many other cities I’ve visited.
5 Best Historic Sites in Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington, North Carolina is a city rich in history, offering visitors a glimpse into America’s past through its architectural treasures, brick streets, and meaningful past sites. As you explore this charming city, here are the top five historic sites that you should not miss:
1. USS North Carolina Battleship
The USS North Carolina Battleship is a must-visit historic site in Wilmington. This World War II battleship is now a floating museum, offering visitors the chance to step back in time and experience life on board a naval vessel. Explore the gun turrets, mess halls, and engine rooms while learning about the ship’s important role in the war.
2. Bellamy Mansion Museum
The Bellamy Mansion Museum is a stunning example of antebellum architecture in Wilmington. Built-in 1861, this historic home showcases the beauty and grandeur of the Old South. Take a guided tour of the mansion to learn about its former residents and the impact of the Civil War on the region.
3. Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a historic garden that dates back to the early 20th century. This lush oasis features stunning azaleas, camellias, and othre native plants, and also stunning water features and walking trails. Explore the gardens at your leisure or take a guided tour to learn about the history of this botanical treasure.
4. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Thalian Hall is a historic theater located in the heart of downtown Wilmington. Built-in 1858, this architectural gem has been hosting performances for over 160 years. Catch a show at Thalian Hall to experience the magic of live theater in a truly historic setting.
5. Cape Fear Museum
The Cape Fear Museum is the oldest history museum in North Carolina and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past. Explore exhibits on topics ranging from Native American history to the Civil War and beyond. Don’t miss the chance to see artifacts from the wreckage of Blackbeard’s ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge.
Wilmington, North Carolina is a city with a rich historical heritage waiting to be explored. from battleships to mansions,gardens to theaters,there is something for everyone to discover in this charming coastal city. So, plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Wilmington.
Wilmington is such a gem! The historic sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, and I can’t wait to explore them all on my next visit!