20 Best Day Trips From Wilmington (2024)

Wilmington is unquestionably one of the best cities to visit in North Carolina.

This area attracts visitors from all over the world.

Not only does it offer beaches, but it also boasts high-quality stores, restaurants, and galleries.

Even hundreds of movies and television programs have been filmed in this area.

Although it may seem like the city has it all, there are also other beautiful attractions outside worth visiting.

So, why don’t we go and check it out?

Let’s uncover the best day trips from Wilmington in the list below.

1. Southport

Southport is a city in Brunswick County near the Cape Fear River.

This quiet and picturesque town is only 43 minutes from Wilmington and has miles of swamplands and the coast.

A visit to the Fort Johnston-Southport Museum and Visitors’ Center is a beautiful place to start.

Maps and brochures are available here to assist you on a self-guided walking tour of historic Southport.

Moreover, scenes from the town have appeared in some popular romantic films, including “Safe Haven,” and “A Walk to Remember”.

You can also explore the nearby beaches of Oak Island and Caswell Beach if you’re searching for a place to put down your beach blanket.

This is one of the great day trips from Wilmington for couples to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean.

2. Beaufort

701 Front Street
Beaufort, NC 28516
(252) 728-2141

Beaufort is the Crystal Coast’s easternmost town and the third-oldest in the state.

Getting here is a long drive of 1 hour and 57 minutes from Wilmington, so pack your things early on.

The first thing you can do is take a stroll down Front Street for some stunning vistas.

Take a walk along the dock for views of the water, magnificent sailboats, and some wild ponies who live on Carrot Island.

Next, explore Shackleford Banks to go kayaking with your family.

This provides a scenic perspective of the beautiful waterfront and is a great way to capture enviable photos.

You might even spot a couple of wild horses that will captivate you.

3. New Bern

New Bern, NC 28560
(252) 636-4000

New Bern is a small Inner Banks town located 40 miles north of Emerald Isle.

Seeing this delightful town takes 1 hour and 44 minutes from Wilmington.

If you’re looking for fun day trips from Wilmington for families, head to New Bern Aquatic Center.

It has interactive water elements, slides, swim lanes, and a big deck for your kids to swim and play around.

Certified Swimming Pool Operators are also on hand to provide a safe and exciting environment for the whole family.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there.

Visit Neusiok Trait for a beautiful view of the lush pocosin with pond pines.

This trail is surrounded by gorgeous cypress trees and is suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern – Riverfront

Also See:
Day Trips From Raleigh
Fun Day Trips From Asheville

4. Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle, NC 28594
(252) 354-3424

The town of Emerald Isle is located on the state’s Crystal Coast’s Bogue Banks Island.

It takes 1 hour and 43 minutes from Wilmington to get to this tiny seaside town.

You should start by visiting Hammocks Beach State Park.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning surroundings while kayaking and paddleboarding with their families.

Include this location in your Wilmington day trips if you want a laid-back experience.

Finally, you can’t go home without visiting The Point.

Located at the far western end of Bogue Banks, this is one of the prettiest beaches in the area.

Stay for the sunset on the classic beach while you have your toes in the sand.

Emerald Isle’s panoramic views are excellent and worthy of being captured on camera.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Islander Hotel & Resort

5. Kure Beach

Kure Beach, NC 28449
(910) 458-8216

Kure Beach is famous for its rich maritime history involving fishing and piers.

If you’re looking for quick Wilmington trips, this 24-minute drive to Kure Beach is the perfect daycation.

Visit the Adventure Reef at the North Carolina Aquarium.

It is a family-friendly outdoor area with various aquatic settings and marine life.

There is also a gift shop where you may purchase souvenirs for your friends and family.

Explore the natural wonders of the Coquina Outcrop as well.

If you time it correctly, watching the sunset here is a spectacular experience.

However, you must wait until low tide for the peculiar rock formations to surface, so plan ahead.

Remember to bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray when you come here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Carolina Beach Oceanfront

Related: Activities in Wilmington

6. Croatan National Forest

Havelock, NC 28532
(252) 638-5628

The Croatan National Forest covers 159,000 acres of pine forests, saltwater estuaries, and raised swamps.

It takes 2 hours to arrive here from Wilmington, so better pack up early.

One of the most notable places to visit is the Brice Creek Boat Launch.

This site features a picnic area where you can enjoy spending time with your loved ones on a peaceful, cool day.

Additionally, it features restrooms, a boat ramp, and a courtesy dock for kayakers or sailors.

If you enjoy trekking, there is the Patsy Pond Nature Trail and the Cedar Point Trail.

Each trail here is a terrific way to pass an afternoon or even an entire day because of the beautiful woodlands and coastal vistas.

7. Cape Lookout National Seashore

131 Charles St
Harkers Island, NC 28531
(252) 728-2250

Cape Lookout National Seashore is a picturesque coastal location in the southern Outer Banks’ barrier islands.

Even if it’s a 3-hour and 46-minute drive from Wilmington, the views along the way are worth it.

Climbing the Cape Lookout Lighthouse is the first thing to do here.

The 207-step ascent up the spiral staircase rewards you with breathtaking views of the seashore and adjacent barrier islands.

You can look for horses on Shackleford Banks if you have the whole day (in your group or on a ranger-guided tour).

From here, you can ride or walk down to Cape Lookout’s point to observe shorebirds building their nests or searching for larger shells.

Because of the town’s excellent seaside attractions, this is one of those places you shouldn’t miss out on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beaufort Hotel

Also See:
Best Day Trips From Charlotte
Best Day Trips From Greenville

8. Masonboro Island

Wilmington, NC 28409

Masonboro Island Reserve is the southern state’s longest unspoiled barrier island habitat.

If you’re looking for quick and fun things to do outside Wilmington, this Island is just 13 minutes away.

Bring the kids to the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center to learn about coastal species in an interactive setting.

You can also find the Wrightsville Beach Mailbox by strolling along the beach on the island’s north side.

Visitors can share their stories here, leave comments and messages, and read expressions made by other travelers.

Don’t forget to look for souvenirs in surf stores, resort clothes in local boutiques, and sundries here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sandpeddler Inn and Suites

9. Lake Waccamaw State Park

1866 State Park Dr
Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
(910) 646-4748

Lake Waccamaw State Park is located in Columbus County.

You can drive from Wilmington to Lake Waccamaw State Park for 47 minutes.

The lake is one of the most scenic places near Wilmington.

Be sure to prepare your cameras as you’ll surely take some fantastic photographs.

Before heading out, check out the Visitor Center to give you more information about the lake.

Once you head out, take the Boardwalk Trails, which will lead you to some of the best views of the lake.

If you fancy going on a picnic, there are numerous picnic areas around the state park to enjoy with the family.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Shallotte / Ocean Isle Beach Hotel

10. Cape Fear River

North Carolina, USA

Cape Fear River is the most extensive river system in the state.

From Wilmington, it takes a 1-hour drive to get to this river.

The river is one of the great places to visit near Wilmington.

Some of your best activities include swimming and kayaking with family or friends.

You can also tour the river and enjoy the picturesque view using the Black Water Adventure Cruise.

Moreover, you can just relax while traversing the river by trying out Lazy River Tubing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

11. Fort Fisher

1610 Fort Fisher Blvd S
Kure Beach, NC 28449
(910) 251-7351

Fort Fisher is the site of the American Civil War’s largest amphibious battle.

You will only need a short 27-minute drive from Wilmington to Fort Fisher.

Some areas of the fort are restored to commemorate the events that happened during a crucial moment in US history.

You can see a fully restored cannon and palisade fence near the Visitors Center.

Inside the Visitors Center, you’ll see the footage, displays, and artifacts from sunken ships.

Also, you can take a picturesque trail surrounded by tall live oak trees up to the rear of what remains of the fort.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites Southport

12. Moores Creek National Battlefield

40 Patriots Hall Dr
Currie, NC 28435
(910) 283-5591

Moores Creek National Battlefield is a location that remembers the battle that took place there in 1776.

The drive will only take 31 minutes to Moores Creek National Battlefield from Wilmington.

The battlefield commemorates the patriots that were victorious against the British during the Revolutionary War.

Walk around the area, and see how the battle was fought during that time with reconstructed terrains.

You can visit the Visitor Center to learn more about the site’s iconic past and see how the battle unfolded.

Additionally, you can see different memoirs, including food and drink, woodwork, quill writing, and music, during that era.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Wilmington – Porters Neck, an IHG Hotel

13. Charlotte

Charlotte is the biggest city in the entire state.

You will need a 3-hour and 25-minute drive from Wilmington to Charlotte.

Famously called the “Queen City,” Charlotte is one of the most common places to see near Wilmington.

Check out a daily van trip provided by C-Charlotte Tours and discover the ins and outs of Charlotte’s history.

Learn to appreciate the area’s naturally preserved communities at Quest at Latta Nature Preserve.

Also, experience the hands-on science museum at Discovery Place Science.

If you’re a Football Fan, watch an NFL game at the Bank of America Stadium and cheer for your favorite team.

And to fully satisfy your cravings, check out Optimist Hall for delicious Italian and Asian cuisines.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Charlotte

14. Lumberton

The city of Lumberton is located 82 miles northwest of Wilmington.

The trip from Wilmington will only take 1 hour and 21 minutes to get to Lumberton.

For a fun outdoor activity, you can rent a canoe at Riverway Outfitters and explore the natural beauty of the Lumber River.

If you’re into fresh berries, go strawberry or blueberry picking at Jack Pait Strawberry Farm with the family.

Experience a stroll on Lumberton’s Historic Downtown and see the city’s various murals, restaurants, antiques, and more.

Moreover, visit the Southeastern Lifestyle Day Spa for some pampering and relaxation after an eventful day.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Lumberton, an IHG Hotel

15. Greensboro

Greensboro is a city located in Guilford County, northwest of Wilmington.

You will need a modest 3-hour drive from Wilmington to get to Greensboro.

Greensboro is well known for its distance to the Great Smoky Mountains and historical Revolutionary War engagements.

If you are interested in the city’s rich history, check out Guilford Courthouse National Military Park and learn more about the American Revolution.

Greensboro Science Center is an excellent place for the family to learn and be fascinated by the wonders of science, primarily biology.

The North Carolina Museum of Art and Weatherspoon Art Museum are also available for art enthusiasts.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Greensboro Downtown

16. Charleston

Charleston is the largest city in South Carolina.

Getting to Charleston will take you around 3 hours and 19 minutes from Wilmington.

The city is famous for its picturesque beaches, cobblestone-made buildings, and historic preservation.

Check out the number of museums and historical places like the Boone Hall Plantation, Fort Sumter, and Middleton Place.

Charleston has plenty of exciting options if you want to go on an adventure.

One option that you can check out is Charleston Outdoor Activities.

They offer services including Kayak and Paddleboard Tours, Fishing, and more.

Additionally, if you’re looking for great food, dine at 167 Raw.

They serve plenty of delicious seafood dishes, including crispy oysters, lobster tostada, and tuna burgers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Bennett Charleston

17. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

1 Busch Gardens Blvd
Williamsburg, VA 23185
(757) 229-4386

The Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a theme park close to Williamsburg in James City County.

You will need 4 hours and 24 minutes to drive from Wilmington to Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

You shouldn’t skip one of the park’s main attractions, the Loch Ness Monster ride.

It is an exhilarating double interlocking loop roller coaster ride that will keep your adrenaline pumping.

Also, you can try Finnegan’s Flyer for an intense swinging experience.

If you want to take a break from the fun rides and adventure, try a selection of restaurants like Das Festhaus or Squire’s Grille.

The visit to this theme park is one of those experiences that will give you the thrill of a lifetime.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Williamsburg Busch Gardens Area, an IHG Hotel

18. Newport News

The city of Newport News is located in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia.

To get to Newport News, you must drive 4 hours and 28 minutes from Wilmington.

This is a recommended day trip destination because of its rich history with fascinating locations.

Check out the Virginia Living Museum, where you can see living exhibits of Virginia’s indigenous species.

If you’re into artifacts and historical equipment, The Mariners’ Museum and Park is the place for it.

Additionally, visit Newport News Park if you want to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities like picnicking, canoeing, biking, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites Newport News – Yorktown by Hilton

19. Norfolk

Norfolk is a city in southeastern Virginia, founded in 1682.

Prepare your podcasts and playlists, as the drive from Wilmington to Norfolk takes 4 hours and 11 minutes.

Norfolk is an ideal one day trip from Wilmington to learn about maritime history, go sailing, and unwind on lovely beaches.

If you fancy some outdoor water activities, you can avail of rentals for jet skis, wakeboarding, and waterskiing.

If you want to experience one of the unique activities, try taking a sailor course.

Additionally, check out excellent and fascinating art and Tiffany glass collections at the Chrysler Museum of Art.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

20. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is where the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay meet.

The drive to Virginia Beach will take 4 hours and 29 minutes from Wilmington.

Visitors will love the welcoming, laid-back environment and southern charm this mid-Atlantic town offers.

One of the best day trips from Wilmington is the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

You will enjoy the sun, sand, and waves of this beautiful 3-mile-long oceanfront.

Moreover, stroll down the Virginia Beach Boardwalk while admiring the gorgeous view.

While there, dine in at some of the best restaurants in the area, like Ocean Eddie’s Seafood Restaurant and Lager Heads Bar and Grill.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

20 Best Day Trips From Wilmington — Places Nearby!