Are you looking for exciting outdoor activities on the coast of North Carolina. There are so many places to visit in this part of the state from the Crystal Coast to the Outer Banks and the main city of Wilmington, NC! Well, lucky for you, you’re in the right place to learn about the many activities in Wilmington! From stunning botanical gardens and beautiful beaches to thrilling water sports and historic sites, Wilmington, NC, has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top fun things to do in Wilmington NC and all that this charming city has to offer.
Walk the Airlie Gardens
For nature enthusiasts, walking the Airlie Gardens is a must-do outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC. The 67-acre gardens are home to formal gardens, wildlife, ten acres of lakes, and more than 75,000 azaleas. Visitors can also admire the magnificent Airlie Oak, which dates back to 1545, and explore a seasonal butterfly house. Take a stroll along the trails or hop on a tram for a relaxing and picturesque experience. If you are looking for fun things to do in Wilmington NC out in nature, it doesn’t get better!
Greenfield Park
Located near Greenfield Lake, the 250-acre Greenfield Park is a fantastic spot for outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC. Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the unlit tennis courts and the Greenfield Grind skate park. The park also offers boat rentals and a 5-mile walking/biking trail through stunning gardens, playgrounds, picnic areas, shelters, and grills. With restroom facilities and water fountains available, spending time outdoors with family and friends has never been easier. Don’t miss this dog-friendly haven for outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC.
New Hanover County Arboretum
Escape to the peaceful surroundings of the New Hanover County Arboretum, a nature lover’s paradise located just outside Downtown Wilmington. With seven acres of stunning foliage that changes with the seasons, visitors can enjoy a tranquil setting and experience the area’s native plant life. Best of all, there’s no charge for admission to explore the beautiful grounds. Make sure to add the New Hanover County Arboretum to your list of outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC.
Stroll along the Riverwalk
No visit to Wilmington, NC, is complete without taking a leisurely walk along the scenic Riverwalk. The mile-long boardwalk runs alongside the Cape Fear River and offers breathtaking views of Wilmington’s historic Downtown. Originally created to promote tourism in the area, the Riverwalk now attracts visitors and locals alike, who come to admire the stunning views and access popular attractions. Don’t miss this must-do outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC: assuredly one of our favorite fun things to do in Wilmington NC.
Porters Neck Country Club Golf
Golf enthusiasts visiting Wilmington, NC, should not miss the opportunity to play at the Porters Neck Country Club Golf Course as well. This championship course is a four-star rated attraction that has hosted several prestigious tournaments over the years. With its five teeing areas, the course caters to golfers of all skill levels. Designed by the renowned Tom Fazio team, the Coastal Carolina course is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the area. Make sure to add this top-rated outdoor activity to your Wilmington itinerary.
Halyburton Park
For pet owners looking for outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC, Halyburton Park is a must-visit destination. The park’s 1.3-mile nature trail is dog-friendly and paved, making it an easy stroll for both dogs and their owners. With shaded areas, a doggie water fountain, and picnic areas, the well-maintained park is a perfect spot for an afternoon outing. Plus, children can enjoy the playground while their furry friends stretch their legs.
Kayak tour on Masonboro Island Reserve
Take a guided kayak tour on Masonboro Island Reserve to get away from the noise and chaos of the city. This serene nature reserve boasts calm and shallow waters, making it ideal for kayakers of all skill levels. As you paddle through the marshland, keep an eye out for herons, egrets, osprey, and even dolphins. The guided tour includes a brief crossing of the main waterway, followed by a journey through the protected area of the reserve. Unwind and relax on this outdoor adventure in Wilmington, NC.
Spend A Day On Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach was named one of the world’s best surf towns by National Geographic. With its crystal-clear waters and mild temperatures, Wrightsville Beach is the perfect place for water sports enthusiasts. Enjoy fishing, paddle boarding, shelling, or just basking in the sun on the uncrowded shore. Take long romantic walks or explore island shops during your downtime. There’s something for everyone at Wrightsville Beach, the ultimate water sports haven for outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC.
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
After a day of sun and sand at Wrightsville Beach, head down to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for some family fun. The boardwalk offers amusement rides for kids, including a colorful carousel and fun slide, as well as carnival games and street food all summer long. Take a break from the sun and head to the Carolina Beach Arcade to cool off, play games, and win prizes. This fun-filled addition to your outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC, is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and is a top fun things to do in Wilmington NC.
Kure Beach
Nestled between the bustling town of Carolina Beach and the tranquil shorelines of Fort Fisher and Zeke’s Island Reserve, Kure Beach offers a little bit of everything to visitors. With its sunny beaches, quiet atmosphere, and easy access to nearby attractions, Kure Beach is the perfect destination for a coastal Cape Fear vacation. Fun fact: the town is named after Hans Kure, a Danish-born man who moved to the Cape Fear coastline with his family in 1895.
Boat on the Cape Fear River
Surrounded by waterways that connect to the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal region offers countless miles of scenic terrain to explore. Visitors can easily launch their own boats from one of the many public ramps in the area or rent one from local companies. From the Intracoastal Waterway to the heart of the Cape Fear River, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views to discover. Add boating to your list of outdoor activities in Wilmington, NC, and make unforgettable memories on the water. Book your river adventure here!
Fish from the coast
For anglers seeking variety, Wilmington, NC, is a dream destination. With its man-made lakes, creeks, Cape Fear River, and ocean shorelines, there’s no shortage of places to cast a line. The city is a haven for fishermen, with numerous bait and tackle stores, charter businesses, and boat launches. Whether you prefer a simple day of fishing in a park or a deep-sea fishing adventure, Wilmington has it all. Come experience this exciting outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC, and catch some fish!
Beau Rivage Golf
For those seeking a luxurious outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC, look no further than the Beau Rivage Golf & Resort. This historic property offers stunning guest accommodations, complete with modern amenities and a hospitality clubhouse that exudes elegance and charm. The resort’s award-winning championship golf course is nestled in a beautiful natural setting, just a stone’s throw from the beaches of North Carolina’s Cape Fear Coast.
Explore the historic district of Wilmington
Located a few miles from the beach, the charming historic district of Wilmington is steeped in history and offers a unique blend of attractions, restaurants, and shops. Spanning 300 city blocks, it’s one of the largest downtown communities in the country. Wander the ancient cobblestone streets and soak up the culture, history, and entertainment that Wilmington is famous for. Don’t miss this charming addition to your list of fun things to do in Wilmington NC.
Ogden Park with tons of sporting fields/courts
The largest multi-sports facility and park in New Hanover County, Ogden Park features tennis and basketball courts, soccer and baseball/softball fields, and a walking trail. It’s also home to the state-of-the-art Tony Hawk competition Skate Park, which covers 10,000 square feet and includes a skate bowl, rails, and steps. Don’t forget to check out the Farmer’s Market held every Wednesday during the Spring/Summer season.
Gary Shell Cross-City Trail
This 15-mile off-road, multi-use trail winds through the heart of Wilmington, providing access to a range of recreational and cultural destinations. Whether you prefer biking, walking, or running, this trail has something for everyone. Plus, it’s part of the developing city-wide trails and greenways system, making alternative transportation safer and more convenient for all. Don’t miss out on this scenic and active outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC.
Visit the WWII Battleship North Carolina
Step back in time and explore the fascinating WWII Battleship North Carolina, located on the Cape Fear River in Wilmington. This historic attraction boasts nine levels of living spaces, gun turrets, powder storage, and more. The Battleship serves as a memorial to the thousands of North Carolinians who lost their lives during the war. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or opt for a docent-led tour for an additional charge. Be sure to also check out the newly opened SECU Memorial Walkway around the Battleship, which is accessible and free to the public. It’s probably the most unforgettable of the fun things to do in Wilmington NC.
Carolina Beach State Park
Escape to the great outdoors at Carolina Beach State Park, located just 12 miles south of Wilmington, NC. The park is home to the unique Venus flytrap and boasts breathtaking natural habitats like the Sugarloaf Dune and three limesink ponds, each with its own unique plant communities. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and go boating or fishing on the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway via the marina.
Learn to surf with Tony Silvagni Surf School
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure, why not try surfing in Wilmington, NC? The Tony Silvagni Surf School offers private and group lessons tailored to your level of experience. Their professional instructors teach everything from wave formation to water safety, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable surfing experience. With top-quality equipment and CPR and First Aid-certified instructors, you can trust Tony Silvagni Surf School to give you an unforgettable outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC.
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
This entertainment center features a massive waterpark, complete with a million-gallon wave pool, thrilling speed slides, and a lazy river. But that’s not all; the park also offers dry park activities like go-karts, laser tag, and even indoor playgrounds. With something for everyone, Jungle Rapids is a must-do outdoor activity in Wilmington, NC.
So Many Fun Things To Do In Wilmington NC…
Wilmington, NC, offers an abundance of outdoor activities that cater to people of all ages and interests. From serene walks through the gardens to adrenaline-pumping water sports, Wilmington has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or visiting Wilmington for the first time, you’ll never run out of exciting things to do in this beautiful city. So, come and explore the endless possibilities of outdoor activities and super fun things to do in Wilmington, NC!
