Why Are Wilmington Tourist Attractions Attractive?

How Wilmington became this spectacular may puzzle a few. But ask any resident, or anyone who has visited: this is one of the hidden jewels of the Carolinas — dare we say, even of the US. The city has all the best attractions converging in one place. Look at the rivers, the beaches, the historic downtown, the old battleships: everything that could keep you watching for hours is found here. Anyone looking to experience a different kind of attraction should look no further than Wilmington.

So if you are new to Wilmington — or even if you're not — read on!

1.1Wilmington Yacht Charters

You'll find some of the most spectacular scenes on board the various yachts that charter the Cape Fear River as it finds its way to the Atlantic. Sanjema II is one of them — modified to carry master, executive and VIP guest rooms plus an additional guest stateroom, a private bath for guest quarters, and crew quarters. From the larger open upper decks you can watch Wilmington drift past on the slow, flowing waters of the Cape Fear River. It is an attraction in a class of its own, offering a truly distinctive view of the surroundings.

"Anyone looking to experience a different kind of attraction should look no further than Wilmington."

1.2Tregembo Animal Park

This is one of the oldest zoos in southern North Carolina. It is privately owned, and the animals here are very well taken care of. Animal lovers can watch some of the tropics' dangerous carnivores at close range, and schools and educational tours sometimes use the facilities for learning. Unlike most zoos, feeding the animals is allowed here — under the watchful eye of an attendant. You cannot come to Wilmington and leave without a tour of Tregembo, which is run by the Tregembo family. There is no other place where you can come as close to bears, among other animals.

1.3Wilmington Trolley

There is a lot to see in Wilmington's downtown historic district, and the best way to see it all is aboard the old-fashioned trolley car. The trolley has been kept as close to its original form as possible, taking you back to the era when it was a coveted mode of transport. Private charters are also available, and the route takes in various attractions including the historical churches, the museums, and the Temple of Israel, among other places.

Back in time, one cobblestone block at a time.

1.4Battleship North Carolina

This ship is moored on the Cape Fear River at a downtown riverfront park, where it has sat since 1961. Its majestic presence on the riverbank is a reminder of its prowess at the height of the Second World War: the ship is said to have won fifteen battle stars before retiring in 1947. It now serves both as an attraction and as a memorial to the North Carolina citizens who served in the military during WWII.

1.5Cape Fear River Boats

These boats operate between March and October, with three vessels offering the full Cape Fear River sightseeing experience. Private charters can be organized; the boats offer luxury wedding facilities and make a great setting for families and groups to tour the river while sharing meals — you may bring your own food, or order from the riverbank hotels. There are different sightseeing packages, from one to four hours, on which the captain takes you past the important sites and explains their details; a one-hour historical cruise is also on offer for getting to know the area.

Then there are the Black River nature tours, which begin in May and take you deep into the wild waters of the Black River — some of the cleanest in the world. Here you are accompanied by wildlife experts, and by natural-history and cultural-heritage specialists, who keep up a stream of interesting details and facts about the area.

"These are just a few of the wonderful things the city lets you enjoy."