Port Guide | United States | Worth a Wander
Wilmington
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-09-02
Ah, Wilmington-Delaware's pleasantly scrappy gem of a city, nestled where the Brandywine spills reluctantly into the Delaware River. You might initially mistake it for just another pretty river town with quaint colonial facades and all the charm of a well-worn antique shop (minus the creepy dolls). But peel back the layers, friends, because Wilmington has stories. Yes, George Washington snoozed here, and yes, gunpowder millionaires made their mark, but Wilmington also offers a vibrant, slightly eccentric arts scene and the thrill of stretching your cruise-weary legs with tax-free shopping sprees (welcome to Delaware: America's retail therapy capital). Spend your first day exploring quirky galleries and sipping craft beer downtown, or perhaps wander upriver toward the bucolic elegance of the Brandywine Valley. Whatever you choose, dive right in- Wilmington rewards travelers who pack their humor right next to their sensible walking shoes.
United States has 6 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Wilmington is known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. The port offers various excursions, including visits to nearby attractions such as the Brandywine Valley, tax-free shopping, and dining options in downtown.
Where do cruise ships dock in Wilmington?
Port Name Wilmington
Country United States
Region Northeast
Ship Terminal Wilmington Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility Approximately 2 miles from downtown Wilmington; accessible via taxis and rideshare services.
What's the weather like in Wilmington?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes Hurricane season in the Atlantic may impact travel plans; typical rain showers are possible but usually brief during summer.
Temperature Range 75-90F (24-32C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 20F
Average Temp 60F
What do I need to know about Wilmington?
Language English
Currency United States Dollar (USD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 70,000
Timezone Eastern Standard Time (EST)
How do I get around Wilmington?
Taxis, rideshare services, and local public transportation are available. The Wilmington Transit Authority operates bus services in the area.
What are The Best Things to do in Wilmington?
Discover what you should do while you're in Wilmington.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Battleship North Carolina
1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401
Explore the history onboard this iconic WWII battleship docked right in Wilmington Harbor.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Bellamy Mansion Museum Tour
503 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Visit this grand antebellum mansion featuring impressive architecture and rich Civil War history.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Fort Fisher & NC Aquarium Visit
900 Loggerhead Rd, Kure Beach, NC 28449
Enjoy a day combining Civil War history at Fort Fisher and marine life at the NC Aquarium.
Distance from Terminal: 18 miles
Brunswick Town Historic Site
8884 St Philip's Rd SE, Winnabow, NC 28479
Explore this colonial ghost town with ruins and archaeological exhibits surrounded by nature trails.
Distance from Terminal: 20 miles
Cape Fear Museum
814 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Engage with exhibits exemplifying Southeastern North Carolina's historical and ecological narratives.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Carnivorous Plant Hike
N/A
Witness the unique Venus flytraps and pitcher plants during guided hikes along Carolina Beach State Park trails.
Distance from Terminal: 15 miles
Cucalorus Film Festival Outdoor Screening
Various outdoor locations
Enjoy open-air screenings of indie films at this uniquely Wilmington summertime event.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington
8 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Join a hauntingly entertaining walking tour sharing Wilmington's eerie tales and folklore.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar Experience
109 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Savor local oysters in this lively spot epitomizing coastal Carolina flavors.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Rides
Carolina Beach Ave S, Carolina Beach, NC 28428
Enjoy classic seaside fun with amusement rides and games along Carolina Beach's retro boardwalk.
Distance from Terminal: 16 miles
Blueberry Picking at local farms
N/A
Participate in a fun, typically Northeastern and Carolina summer tradition of blueberry picking.
Distance from Terminal: 12 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Surf Lessons at Wrightsville Beach
N/A
Catch Atlantic waves with experienced surf instructors at this popular Wilmington beach.
Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Intracoastal Waterway
1322 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Experience serene views as you paddleboard along the calm Intracoastal Waterway surrounding Wilmington.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Masonboro Island Kayaking
N/A
Paddle to the pristine beaches of Masonboro Island, accessible only by watercraft.
Distance from Terminal: 9 miles
A Little Extra
Sunset Harbor Cruise on Cape Fear River
Dock St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Take a relaxing cruise along Wilmington's scenic Cape Fear River during sunset.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Thalian Hall Theatrical Performance
310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Experience performances in one of America's oldest historic theaters operating since 1858.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Overnight Trips
Overnight Trip to Bald Head Island
N/A
Stay overnight on this charming car-free island accessible only by ferry, rented golf-cart transportation included.
Distance from Terminal: 25 miles
United States Regional Tip
Selective Traffic Ticketing Certain cities aggressively enforce specific road laws—like strict speed enforcement zones near schools in Washington D.C., catching unaware visitors off-guard.