Can there be a better place to visit this summer than Wilmington, NC? With its beaches, history, perfect weather, and plenty to activities, Wilmington has won top honors for livability.
Don’t take our word for it—look at all the awards Wilmington has won!
1. Wilmington Was Named Eighth Best US City for Tourists
With a list of 21 data points including attractions, walkability, cost, and music, Value Penguin named Wilmington No. 8 on its list of Best Cities for Tourists. And we agree—there’s so much to do here! Check our list of free and nearly free things to do in Wilmington, including a sightseeing cruise on the Cape Fear River, of course.
2. Host to Many Popular Festivals
Popular Summer festivals include: Orange Street Arts Fest, Carolina Beach Music Festival, and Wilmington Greek Festival.
The weeklong party in Spring that is the Azalea Festival is Wilmington’s best-loved event. Folks travel from near and far to enjoy the parade, Garden Party, street festival, car and art and coin shows, amazing headline bands, and much more—all with a floral backdrop of spring azaleas.
3. USA Today named Wilmington America’s Best Riverfront City 2014 & 2015
The Riverwalk, the Battleship North Carolina, and more than 200 bars, restaurants, and shops make the Cape Fear River the heart of Wilmington. Get the best view in town from on a Cape Fear River sightseeing cruise, or play Riverwalk Bingo to learn about all the sights downtown.
4. North Carolina’s Favorite City
For the second time, Wilmington has been named North Carolina’s Favorite City. And we know why: We’re the prettiest city, the friendliest city, and definitely the most fun!
5. Second Best Place to Start a Business
A growing population, strong tourism, and nearby beaches make the Port City ideal for business, says NerdWallet. Wilmington has about 15 businesses for every 100 people, with plenty of shopping and dining, and there’s always something new.
6. USA Today’s Best Al Fresco Dining Neighborhood
Downtown Wilmington’s historic district won this fun award for outdoor dining. Sidewalk, back patio, and rooftop seating are favorite ways to enjoy Wilmington’s sunny weather.
7. Seventh Best City for Beer Drinkers
The new breweries just keep coming, and they’re so much fun! With several beer festivals and breweries offering music and events, no wonder brew tours are building a following in the Port City. More than beer, check out all the cocktails you can enjoy on the Cape Fear Riverwalk.
8. 13th Most Environmentally Friendly City
Good news for keeping Wilmington green: It’s been named No. 13 in a list of Environmentally Friendly Cities. Transportation, energy, and the environment stack up pretty well. But then, you knew Wilmington was a breath of fresh air!
Cape Fear Riverboats invites you to come down to our ticket booth at Water and Dock Streets on the Riverwalk during your visit to Wilmington. Take our 1-hour narrated sightseeing cruise and see a side of Wilmington many visitors miss. Enjoy your stay in our wonderful town!
