From a cozy seat on her patio, Alicia Mitchell surveys the street. New businesses are popping up regularly in Wilmington’s Brooklyn Arts District, where Alicia opened her restaurant, The Kitchen Sink, in fall 2021. And from her nook of the neighborhood, she says the energy is palpable.
“People are ready to get out and gather,” Mitchell says. “They’re wanting to support local business, visit the districts, and find places that feel warm and inviting.” That’s what guests get at The Kitchen Sink, where locally sourced ingredients and a whole lot of love make up a menu of seasonal soups, savory sandwiches, and creative salads. Picture pints of local beer and bowls of refreshing gazpacho, plus decadent sides like pork belly burnt ends and even a luscious lavender lemonade.
North Carolinians across the state have long cherished Wilmington and its three nearby island beaches. Indeed, there’s a lasting draw to tried-and-true favorites like the Wilmington Riverwalk, which hugs the Cape Fear River downtown, and lazy beach days at Carolina, Kure, and Wrightsville beaches.
But don’t stop there — this region is awash in eats, tours, and exhibits to explore. Welcome some wonder to your next vacation by checking off this list of fresh to-dos.
The Brooklyn Arts Center in located in the former St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, built in 1888. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
Anchored by the Brooklyn Arts Center + The Annex, Brooklyn Arts District takes pride in its eclectic vibe. Among industrial buildings and old churches, and just a few blocks from The Kitchen Sink, three10 is a taste of modern Southern seafood and updated classic cocktails. In a repurposed 1920s bungalow, you’ll feel right at home ordering from the Raw Bar or the special Sunday menu.
Tucked within South Front District’s warehouses, wood-fired pizza, and wine bars, True Blue Butcher & Barrel is a combo restaurant, butcher shop, and bar all in one, with an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection, plus a pet-friendly patio.
Located in Historic Downtown Wilmington, Dram Yard Restaurant features Southern coastal fare with a global twist. You’ll also want to swing into Sauce’d, situated along the Riverwalk, as the sun starts to set. Creative cocktails and fanciful fries with (you guessed it) signature sauce? Picture perfect.
Hi-Wire Brewing’s eastern outpost is located in Wilmington’s Soda Pop District. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
In the Soda Pop District, Asheville-founded Hi-Wire Brewing has two outdoor beer gardens, plenty of parking, and an expansive two dozen taps to select from.
Panacea Brewing Company made a name for itself with its rainbow of local hard and nonalcoholic Kombucha, which pairs perfectly with its menu of vegan eats. Most recently the family business added beer to the lineup and is expanding to a large multipurpose space.
Located in a quaint alley adjacent to Front, Dock, and Water streets, The Ivey serves up craft cocktails with a lower price point. Select a seat at its island bar, which — surrounded by 42 stools — serves as the focal point of the eclectic watering hole.
And along the Riverwalk in Historic Downtown Wilmington, the new Aloft hotel houses aView, a rooftop bistro with panoramic views of the Cape Fear River. Open year-round—cozy up by the firepits in winter—you can sip inventive cocktails while you savor oysters on the half shell.
Or opt for The Sorrow Drowner, the Vaudeville-inspired tiki bar and restaurant designed by former Disney Imagineer Brandon Kleyla, best known for his work on Trader Sam’s Tiki Bars. Set in the imaginative age of exploration, The Sorrow Drowner features classic craft cocktails, island fare like pupu platters, and a wandering “waitcast” of characters and comedians.
The Hive is a locally owned boutique hotel with 14 suites. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
Historically known for its Victorian bed and breakfasts, Wilmington also has an array of modern boutique lodging options that are worth a visit. ARRIVE Wilmington’s posh mid-century-styled site features The Gazebo Bar and lauded restaurant Dram Yard to complement the approachable but luxurious guest rooms.
Another comparable lodging option is The Hive, a locally owned boutique hotel featuring 14 stylish suites with stocked kitchens and spa-like bathrooms. Enjoy the centrally located spot for shopping, dining, and cultural events.
The Cameron Art Museum is currently home to Boundless, a bronze sculpture created in honor of the U.S. Colored Troops at the Battle of Forks Road in 1865. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
When the sculpture Boundless was unveiled at the Cameron Art Museum in November 2021, the virtually unknown story of the U.S. Colored Troops (USCT) and the Battle of Forks Road came to life. Created by North Carolina artist Stephen Hayes and cast from men connected to the troop, this bronze sculpture will be the focal point of the state’s first USCT Park.
See the otters at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
On the tip of nearby Kure Beach, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher delights all ages with its aquatic exhibits. In addition to seeing the fan-favorite Asian small-clawed otters, visitors can also dive into the Caribbean Corals habitat, ogle moon jellies, and admire the majesty of a bald eagle named Maverick.
This year from June to August, Kure Beach will host a program, Kid’s Adventure Night, at the Ocean Front Park & Pavilion. Held each Thursday (except July 4), the event invites kids of all ages to enjoy rotating superhero and pirate themed game nights. And at the end of the season, a foam party! When you’re ready for a bite to eat, head across the street from Ocean Front Park to Ocean View Restaurant.
In Wilmington’s 67-acre Airlie Gardens, special events such as summertime concerts and winter lights combine with formal gardens, a butterfly house, lakes, and trails to make this a year-round destination.
Go for a ride on a sailboat charter during a stay at the storied Blockade Runner. Photography courtesy of Wilmington & Island Beaches, NC
There’s no doubt that water is the way to see Wilmington’s beach towns, and local charter companies are dreaming up more creative cruises to do so. Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours has room for your whole crew in its new private charter aptly dubbed the Family Beach Party. Meanwhile, Blockade Runner Surf to Sound Adventures has a sailboat charter, and Island Cruises specialize in sunsets. Browse their websites to select among their fleet.
In Carolina Beach, Salty Ventures was launched by residents Thomas Dosier and Lisa Overby-Dosier. The charter has a variety of full- and half-day itineraries that include island hopping, visits to local restaurants, shelling, booze and sunset cruises, and other custom ways to spend a day afloat.
“There’s nothing like seeing the geography of this area from the water. It gives a unique perspective that most people don’t get to see out on the roads,” says Lisa, who is looking to expand the business to even larger groups by collaborating with other local boat owners.
No matter how you choose to spend your coastal vacation, entrepreneurs like Lisa encourage you to try something new. “The value of experiences — spending your money on an adventure — is unmatched,” she says. “You can’t put a price tag on memories with your family. Those are forever.”
Mark our words: Whether they nod to North Carolina or were penned by its residents, these notable, quotable passages remind us of the power of speech inspired by our state.
When one stream flows into another, the two chart a new course for the future — together.
When the weather outside is frightful, one chef serves loved ones dishes so delightful.
A historic Rose Bowl pitted Duke University against Oregon State in Durham. Then, in the dark days of World War II, those same football players — and a legendary coach — joined forces to fight for freedom.
