A Visitors Guide: Downtown Wilmington, North Carolina

If you've ever been to Charleston you know the history and charm there is unmatched by any other southern city. Did you know coast of the Carolina's has several smaller cities that have history and charm in abundance too? Wilmington, North Carolina is tops on my list when it comes to those cities.

Filming Sleepy Hollow, Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, Battleship North Carolina, random bird on the street, Trolley, cute french restaurant.

Immigrating Europeans settled this area in the early 1700's, today Wilmington has a beautiful historic downtown filled with restaurants and boutiques by day and clubs and bars by night. In 2014 USA today named Wilmington's riverfront, "Best American Riverfront". Also home to Screen Gems studios you might just catch a TV show or movie being filmed.

Where to Stay: While Wilmington has a few hotels in the historic downtown area I recommend Carolina Beach for your stay. Carolina Beach has a small boardwalk which was ranked one of the top 10 in country by Food and Wine Magazine and of course the beach.

Where to Park: There is a large parking deck on Water St. right across from the Cotton Exchange, if you're lucky you might be able to grab a shady spot!

Where to Eat: The last time I was in Wilmington I ate at the Saigon Bistro on Front St which serves Asian Fusion style food. If you're looking for something with a little more local flair try The Reel Cafe or The George on The Riverwalk.

What to Do: Wilmington has a fairly large downtown area so wear your walking shoes! I always start at The Cotton Exchange, made up of several different buildings connected together by old breeze ways and crooked stairs these buildings house some of the most unique shops in the Downtown Area. You can also read about the history of each building as you go and see artifacts related to its history on display. From the Cotton Exchange head South on Front St. ducking into any unique stores you find that catch your eye. Don't miss Candles Etc. on Market St. on your way down Front St. or back up Water St., locally made, long burning, with a TON of scents to choose from. It took me at least 20 minutes to choose a candle. Continue down Front St. Until you see the City Market, inside you will find more unique shops and boutiques selling local goods. Including the Carolina Country Store, where all products are made by artists with disabilities who live in North Carolina. Leave via the Water St. entrance and head south on Water St. until you get to A Proper Garden, not only is this the last shop in line if you're a garden lover it's a must see. When you're done in A Proper Garden head north along Water St. checking out anything that might catch your eye until you get back to The Cotton Exchange. Don't miss your opportunity to take pictures of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and the Battleship North Carolina which you can also visit and tour during your stay.

The Cotton Exchange

Have you been to Downtown Wilmington? What was your favorite shop?