Wilmington, North Carolina, is an East Coast town with the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities around—plus gorgeous beaches. Tucked away on the southern shores of North Carolina, Wilmington is a port city that offers an energetic downtown life near the channel, with a vibrant beach town vibe all year long.Â
If you’re a snowbird dreaming of coastal retirement or a young professional searching for a new start by the sea, there are many reasons to move to Wilmington.
To give you a small taste of this port city’s best features—here are the top 11 reasons to move to Wilmington.
Riverfront Sunsets and Riverwalk Cruises
Born on the Cape Fear River banks, Riverwalk runs through Wilmington’s historic district scene and offers scenic views of the city’s unique architecture. When strolling down Riverwalk, you’ll catch a glimpse of some of the city’s best attractions: waterfront dining, concerts, river cruises, street fairs, and the most stunning sunsets around.
Top-Rated Beaches
Wilmington isn’t just a city— it’s an entire coastal world you’ll want to explore. Surrounded by some of the best beaches on the North Carolinian coast (all accessible by either car or ferry), you’ll be charmed by its year-round beauty. So, whether you find yourself drawn to the family-friendly beaches of Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach or want to surf in Topsail and Figure 8 Island, there’s a beach for you.
Endless ShoppingÂ
It’s always fun to indulge in retail therapy, and Wilmington is one of the best places to shop. Home to Mayfaire, an engaging open-air retail experience, this shopping center features internationally-loved outlets and local, independent businesses. Downtown Wilmington also has many boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and cafés you’ll want to visit.
Loads of Entertainment
Wilmington is also an entertainment powerhouse, full of live music, live theatre, and independent film options. With concert venues like the Wilson Center, Thalian Hall, and Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, there’s always a place to catch a good show. Don’t forget about this hidden gem, either—The Cameron Art Museum exhibits global collections of moving, thought-provoking art.
A Beer Lover’s Dream
Wilmington’s thriving craft beer scene is home to 18 breweries, making craft beer one of its largest industries. If you’re a beer enthusiast, Wilmington offers a close-knit community for beer lovers with clubs, organizations, and casual get-togethers that meet regularly. Whether you’re new to craft beer or a longtime fan, it’s an enjoyable hobby to explore (and an easy way to meet new friends).
Conveniently Located
Nestled in the heart of The Carolinas, you can easily plan day trips to dozens of other cities. From the smooth urban vibe of Charlotte or Raleigh/Durham to the elegant historic soul of Charleston, you’re just a few hours away. So take a Saturday and go explore the North Carolina Museum of Art or watch the Panthers play, and you’ll still be close to home.
Rich History
Founded in the 18th century, Wilmington has one of the US’s largest and best-maintained historic districts. Its downtown area showcases several centuries of beautiful architecture. Some historic homes were even flipped into museums, like the Burgwin-Wright House or Bellamy Mansion. These sites allow you to experience the past firsthand, showing you how people lived and worked years ago. The Cape Fear Museum also contains the region’s history, science, and cultures.
Yearly Festivals
Wilmington’s residents love to celebrate. So, there’s always somewhere to go, and dazzling cultural and arts events to be a part of. Get ready to pick from several annual festivals, like the yearly Cucalorus Film Festival, which features cinema from around the world. Or, check out Port City’s Azalea Festival, held every year since 1948. The Azalea Festival takes place in April as the azaleas bloom in Wilmington and offers live music, street fairs, balls, and garden parties.Â
Riverfront Farmers Market, held every Saturday during the season, is also a happy way to start your weekends. Here, you’ll find local vendors, produce, art, and musicians in a laid-back outdoor setting.
Travel Made Easy
Wilmington International Airport makes traveling to and from the city simple. With direct flights to many major cities (including New York, Philadelphia, and Newark), it’s easy to fly home or have your friends and family visit.Â
The Best of Southern Living
The Coastal South is famous for its relaxed approach to living, offering a breezy, coastal vibe. Wilmington’s residents are leisure specialists committed to finding new ways to seize the day and enjoy life to the fullest.
Outdoor-MindedÂ
Try kayaking on the Cape Fear River if you love the outdoors, which ushers you into a new world of marshes, wetlands, and cypress groves. For those of you that like to explore on two wheels, Halyburton Park and Greenfield Lake offer scenic biking trails. Feeling more adventurous? Try the 15 mile Gary Shell Cross-City Trail or the 11 mile River to Sea Bikeway. During these long rides, you’ll get to tour the city and its many cultural and historical landmarks.
Home Communities for Boaters
Since Wilmington is between the river and the sea, it’s a boater’s paradise. Maritime recreation is popular in Wilmington, with easy access to the ocean and the intercoastal waterway. Marinas, boat rentals, and charters will be ready for you to explore deep-sea fishing, water-skiing, or taking casual boat rides with friends. Wilmington also offers some of the top home communities for boaters.
With so much to do (and see), Wilmington, North Carolina, is calling to you!
If you’re ready to dive in and embrace all Wilmington has to offer, stop by River Bluffs as your first choice for a neighborhood. Schedule a tour today! Our friendly sales team is ready to help you find your new home.