Wilmington, Where the River Meets the Sea
The port city pairs a handsomely restored historic riverfront with easy access to island beaches, making it the coast's most complete escape.
Most coastal towns offer either history or beach. Wilmington offers both, and the river besides.
A city of two waters
The port city's handsomely restored historic district lines the Cape Fear River, its streets shaded by live oaks and lined with antebellum architecture. Minutes away, barrier-island beaches offer the requisite sand and surf.
The combination makes for an unusually complete escape — cultured evenings, beach days, and a walkable downtown between them.
Substance beneath the charm
A thriving film industry and a growing food scene give the city an energy that many historic towns lack.
Wilmington's genius is refusing to choose. It is a beach town with a real downtown, a historic city with an ocean nearby — a coastal getaway that works in every season.
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