Whether you’re a thrill-seeker who can’t sit still or a traveler tired of being stuck indoors, get moving during your next getaway to Wilmington. Across our coastal city, discover a wide array of motion-based adventures from biking along scenic trails to setting sail on the Cape Fear River.
Read on for our guide to staying on-the-go in Wilmington this summer:
Two-Wheel Adventures
Reconnect with nature and enjoy some low-impact activity with a bicycle rental from an area outfitter. Biking along one of Wilmington’s trails is a great way for the entire family to stay moving and discover adventure along the way.
Enjoy a ride along the 15-mile, multi-use Gary Shell Cross-City Trail to discover numerous educational, cultural and recreational destinations across the city. Stop in at Halyburton Park along the way to spy some of our coastal wildlife around the 58-acre nature preserve. Complete your ride at the Heide-Trask Drawbridge to take in impressive views of the Intercoastal Waterway from the lookout station.
Set out on two wheels along the River to Sea Bikeway to explore our coastal destination from Historic Downtown Wilmington to Johnnie Mercers Pier in nearby Wrightsville Beach for a fun way to keep the whole family moving. Or, grab the adventurers in your crew and catch some air at Blue Clay Bike Park, where you’ll find an 8-mile, off-road trail system perfect for mountain biking.
Walk This Way
If you’d rather explore on your own two feet than on two wheels, take in waterfront views while walking or jogging the trails around the lake at the more than 250-acre Greenfield Park. A year-round birding oasis nestled within busy downtown Wilmington, keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife as you explore the park on foot.
Enjoy views of attractions like the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA along the nearly 2-mile Wilmington Riverwalk, a popular walking and jogging spot for locals in Historic Downtown Wilmington. Take a break with a stop into an array of markets, unique boutiques and galleries set along the Cape Fear River to find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip. Enjoy a relaxing break and a few minutes off your feet at one of the Riverwalk’s outdoor cafes.
River Rides
For those looking to explore by water, Wilmington offers a variety of ways to cruise the Cape Fear River. Take in the sights and see where the water takes you with a sightseeing, sunset or nature cruise aboard the Henrietta with one of Cape Fear River Boats' experienced captains.
Keep moving and feel the breeze in your hair as you set sail on an eco-tour, narrated history tour or sunset cruise along the Cape Fear River with Wilmington Water Tours. Hop aboard the Bizzy Bee Water Taxi to be transported along the Riverwalk between Chandler’s Wharf, Market Street and Hotel Ballast. Or, bring your own beverages and pedal along the Cape Fear River with BrewBoat Wilmington.
However you’re looking to explore, stay on the go in Wilmington to discover a variety of motion-based activities like outdoor adventures, unique tours and more. While you’re in town, be sure to also check out ways to keep moving in our nearby island beaches – Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville.
