Culinary Delights and Coastal Charm: 5-Day Wilmington, NC Exploration Itinerary

Enjoy a beachy breakfast at Timothy's Riverfront Grill before embarking on a day trip to Wrightsville Beach. Bask in the sun, take a dip in the ocean, or try your hand at water sports. If you prefer a more serene morning, opt for a Masonboro Island Reserve Kayak Eco-Tour to explore the pristine coastal ecosystem.

Return to the city for a laid-back lunch at Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen, a gastropub with a wide selection of local brews. Post-lunch, visit the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science to delve into the region's rich heritage and natural history.

Unwind with a brewery tour and tasting at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, where you can sample a variety of handcrafted beers. For dinner, head to Merchant Bar for a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience, featuring a menu of globally inspired small plates.

Start your day with a visit to the Airlie Gardens, where you can meander through 67 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. After taking in the floral beauty, enjoy a brunch at Makers Alley, a trendy spot known for its artisanal cocktails and elevated comfort food.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Cameron Art Museum, home to a diverse collection of American art. For lunch, indulge in the contemporary coastal cuisine at Dream's restaurant & bar, located in the heart of the city's arts district.

As the sun sets, experience the vibrant nightlife of Wilmington at The Cotton Exchange, a historic shopping village with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. For a memorable dinner, reserve a table at Kid Shelleen's - Trolley Square, a local favorite known for its casual yet refined pub fare.

Wake up to a hearty breakfast at Dead Presidents Pub & Restaurant, a laid-back eatery with a menu to please all tastes. After fueling up, take a morning walk along the scenic Riverwalk, enjoying the views of the boats and the historic buildings.

For lunch, head to Catherine Rooney's, an Irish pub with a welcoming atmosphere and classic pub fare. Post-lunch, explore the Wilmington Railroad Museum to learn about the area's railroad history and see vintage locomotives.

Conclude your day with dinner at Chelsea Tavern, a gastropub offering a wide range of beers and a menu of elevated comfort food. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing evening at Banks Channel Sunset Cruise with Wrightsville Beach Scenic Views, where you can take in the beautiful coastal scenery as the day winds down.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crow Bar, a cozy spot with a menu of breakfast favorites. Afterward, take a morning Historic Wilmington Guided Walking Tour to revisit some of the city's most iconic landmarks and hear the stories behind them.

For your last lunch in Wilmington, head to Tonic Seafood & Steak, where you can indulge in a sumptuous meal featuring the finest cuts of meat and the freshest seafood. Afterward, spend your afternoon at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, enjoying the water park, go-karts, and other attractions.

As your trip comes to an end, reflect on your time in Wilmington over a memorable dinner at Trolley Tap House, known for its extensive beer selection and elevated pub fare. Raise a glass to the experiences you've had and the flavors you've savored in this charming coastal city.