The Perfect Girls' Weekend in Wilmington, North Carolina

Downtown Wilmington: Located along the Cape Fear River, Downtown Wilmington is full of shops, restaurants and bars. Walk along Front Street or stroll down Market Street's cobbled road and feel like you are on the set of One Tree Hill, which was filmed here. In fact, a lot of popular TV shows and movies have been filmed here including A Walk to Remember, Dawson's Creek and the more recent sensation, The Summer I Turned Pretty. Pop into some of the downtown boutiques like Island Passage or browse through the Cotton Exchange to support local artists. Wilmington is a very historical city, so for the history buffs in the group, there are plaques all across downtown detailing the history of the city.

Live Oak Pavilion: Located along the riverfront, this music venue has a robust calendar of musical artists and makes the perfect backdrop for any concert.

Cargo District: Probably one of the most unique areas of town, the Cargo District is located minutes from downtown and is essentially a shopping center made out of shipping containers. In this cute and modern district, you can find everything from wine rooms to craft cabanas.

Greenfield Lake, Gardens and Amphitheater: This park is 190 acres, filled with biking and walking trails along Greenfield Lake that features two tennis courts, the Greenfield Grind Skate Park, outdoor amphitheater and boat and kayak rentals.

Airlie Gardens: You know those beautiful weddings you see on Pinterest that seem like they are out of a fairy tale — I bet they took place at Airlie Gardens. Nearly a 1 mile trail inside the gardens, you will be in awe of the beauty and serene setting. Check their event calendar to catch one of their Butterfly Releases or their summer concert series.

Wrightsville Beach: Wilmington has no shortage of beaches within a short drive. Wrightsville Beach is the closest, just 9 miles away. This small island offers some of the most beautiful views and coastal rental homes you have ever seen. Grab a coffee at SUNdays, some chips and queso with a margarita (I recommend the El Blanco) at Tower 7 and end your beach day with some ice cream. If you are staying on the island, a lot of the restaurants on the main strip turn into fun beach bars at night.

Boat Rentals: Sometimes the best way to explore is by going off the beaten path. Rent a boat and go through the inter-coastal waterway making sure to visit Masonboro Island and Figure 8.

Other Beaches: If you are looking for a more traditional or quiet beach experience, Carolina Beach or Oak Island are just down the road. Carolina Beach offers a boardwalk with world famous donuts from Britts Donuts.

Coffee

SUNdays Surf Cafe - On top of a surf shop on Wrightsville beach, this little cafe makes you feel like a local. Grab a cup of coffee before a beach day or a beer before dinner (or lunch :))

CasaBlanca Coffee - Located a bit outside of town but worth the drive. Local roaster with yummy breakfast options. Not to mention their patio has jasmine plants hanging from the pergola making the scene picturesque.

Bespoke Coffee - Right downtown, its a coffee bar, wine bar, retail shop. Expertly crafted espresso drinks with a fun, playful edge to their brand. You will feel cooler just by sitting inside.

Breakfast/Brunch/Lunch

Drift - In the former Causeway Cafe, this chic breakfast spot offers a mix of healthy options and classics. I suggest you go for it and get the Pulled Pork Benedict with the potatoes.

Blueberry Grill - Expect a wait but there is a reason for it. Blueberry Hushpuppies are a must. Get on the waitlist early through the Yelp waitlist feature.

Dinner

Tower 7 or K38 - A local classic. While you may not think of Wilmington and Mexican food in the same sentence, this is some of the best baja Mexican food in the state. Ask for the picante sauce, you won't regret it.

Kipos - If you hear someone talking about grabbing drinks in "the garden" this is where they will be. Some of the best salmon I have ever had and then the outdoor patio aka the garden is the place to be and be seen.

Olivero - Located between the cargo district and the riverfront, yummy italian food with a great cocktail program.

Drinks

Concorde Espresso Bar - My guess is you have seen this all over Instagram and Tiktok by now. This bar and garden is part of the cutest little inn, The Front Street Inn. Espresso Martini flights, tableside s'mores and other craft cocktails. I had the chance to speak with the head bartender and creator of most of the drinks on the menu and she warned that their drinks are designed to be boozy. Take that as you will.

Dockside - Located on the water, great spot for some beach cocktails and watching the boats go by.

Cloud 9 - One of the best rooftop bars in Wilmington, you can take in the stunning views as the sunsets over the river.

The Fortunate Glass - If your crew of girls is more interested in grabbing a glass of wine, there is no better place than The Fortunate Glass. Right downtown with a robust selection.