Wilmington Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing & Cruises in 2024

Planning a trip to Wilmington, North Carolina? You’ll want to check out all there is. There’s such a storybook charming feel to this city, practically begging you to wander its historic streets and soak up the coastal beauty, it feels so nice. Figuring out where to even begin, now that can feel a little overwhelming. That is where our curated list of the top 5 tours, cruises, and overall sightseeing experiences comes into play, to be honest. This is for anyone looking to get the most out of their visit. We’ve really made sure to gather something for pretty much every type of traveler.

1. Wilmington History & Architecture Walking Tour

Want a closer look at Wilmington’s story? The History & Architecture Walking Tour, it really delivers that in spades. So, it’s almost like stepping back in time, isn’t it? You will follow an experienced guide, actually learning about the lives and also the stories of the people that have shaped this port city. You get to feast your eyes on gorgeous architecture, from stately mansions that have seen better days to beautifully restored buildings. Each building, in some respects, seems to whisper a tale of yesteryear.

But the History part isn’t some kind of lecture either; that’s great, actually. The guides, you see, are known for, well, livening things up, making this two-hour stroll more than just a tour, that’s true. It’s more or less a total performance, to be honest. They bring the city’s colorful past to life using a range of anecdotes. You’ll walk away not only getting some appreciation for the aesthetics but really with a much deeper awareness of the historical context of this unique and special location. This tour, in a way, really stands out for a deeper Wilmington experience.

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2. Cape Fear Riverboat Cruise

Fancy seeing Wilmington from a different viewpoint? Consider the Cape Fear Riverboat Cruise. I think the clue is in the name! I am mentioning that anyway. Imagine gently moving down the river with an almost scenic landscape opening up, right before your very own eyes, right?. The riverboat gives, arguably, such comfortable seating, great views, that’s correct, and so, it’s like an inviting bar that keeps the spirits flowing. I think, actually, that this tour comes very highly recommended.

During your cruise, the Captain typically shares their commentary regarding the city’s points of interest, right, the natural ecosystem. too it’s almost a floating lesson about everything Cape Fear has to show you, isn’t it? And really keep your eyes open. You could be treated to spotting the native wildlife. I’m referring to seabirds soaring overhead, to possibly even seeing the odd playful dolphin nearby. You know this boat ride provides the peaceful getaway and an unusual vantage to witness the allure of Wilmington.

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3. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Historic Wilmington

Wanting a truly unique and relaxed way to sightsee? A horse-drawn carriage tour is great. It’s just that it offers almost such an old-world charm. This gentle jaunt, arguably, really allows you to sink into the peaceful rhythm of the city, letting you appreciate the buildings, that’s for sure. With the sound of hooves and also the creak of leather kind of giving you, in a way, a sense of calm, a lot of these tours explore a number of the beautifully preserved streets in Historic Wilmington. These range from what I would say are, basically, old residences, to pretty public gardens, or also some historic landmarks.

That this tour brings the layers of past to the present day is quite a fun experience. Your guide typically narrates anecdotes, you know? What the houses and corners saw is also brought back. It does give you an amazing intimate engagement, not really one easily had any other way. This leisurely ride is just a unique experience, in my opinion; an incredibly romantic thing or even a restful excursion with the family.

Read our full review: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour Wilmington Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book a Carriage Ride)

4. Wilmington Ghost Walk

Is getting spooked more your style? Then you might, arguably, appreciate checking out one of Wilmington’s ghost walks, that’s for sure. Now Wilmington is regarded as, well, an old city with tales that range from being historical all the way to being haunting. These walking tours that take place in the evenings take you on a little wander down cobblestone paths, dimly lit and filled with the stories, maybe, of paranormal activities, I don’t know, alright? Be led by what you would consider, basically, very knowledgeable guides, or storytellers, if you like.

What the best stories come down to really revolves around documented happenings, or local tales, and stuff. Get chills as some really sinister characters begin to form. It does add the sense, probably, of local color, especially after sundown. Now you can explore a side of Wilmington that tends to be pretty eerie, but incredibly amazing too. This journey through its most mysterious sites should fascinate fans. Even history fans can, for instance, find pleasure in the narrative-driven exploration of, arguably, Wilmington’s heritage.

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5. Battleship North Carolina Tour

Is the history of military something you admire? In that case, that tour of the Battleship North Carolina, typically, really delivers some awesome views, isn’t it? Getting to step on board a real WWII warship kind of makes for an emotive experience. You get this opportunity to tour its decks. Take in where people have their living quarters. And getting to understand the workings around all the battle stations offers, really, something unique.

You’re not only touring a boat, now you are being given a moving reminder, for instance, of WWII. Learning of how those who served have affected so many. Walking the halls kind of causes reflection to occur. This does invite anyone paying respects while gaining knowledge of global history at exactly the same moment. History is so interesting, that’s a fact.

Read our full review: Battleship North Carolina Tour Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit the Battleship)