When planning a trip to Wilmington, North Carolina, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The city’s charm, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere make it an attractive destination for tourists and business travelers alike. With its picturesque riverwalk, beautiful beaches, and thriving film industry, Wilmington has become a popular getaway for people from all over the country. However, with so many options available, choosing the right accommodation can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to research and find the best places to stay in Wilmington, NC, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of the Best Places to Stay in Wilmington, NC
This guide will provide you with an in-depth look at the top neighborhoods and areas to stay in Wilmington, NC. From the historic downtown district to the beachside communities, we’ll explore the best options for different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, or family-friendly accommodations, we’ve got you covered. Our recommendations will help you find the perfect place to rest your head, ensuring that you’re close to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and activities.
What to Expect
In this guide, we’ll delve into the following topics:
- Downtown Wilmington: Explore the historic district, riverwalk, and vibrant nightlife.
- Beachside Communities: Discover the best coastal areas, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach.
- Midtown and Uptown: Learn about the advantages of staying in these up-and-coming neighborhoods.
- Family-Friendly Options: Find the best hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals for families with kids.
- Luxury and Budget-Friendly Accommodations: Get insider tips on the top high-end hotels and affordable options.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the best places to stay in Wilmington, NC, and be able to make an informed decision about where to book your accommodations.
Best Places to Stay in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, North Carolina is a charming coastal city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque riverwalk, beautiful beaches, and thriving arts scene, Wilmington is a popular destination for tourists and travelers. When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Wilmington has a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in Wilmington, NC, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and from downtown apartments to beachside resorts.
Downtown Wilmington
Downtown Wilmington is the heart of the city, with its vibrant Riverwalk, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. Staying in downtown Wilmington puts you within walking distance to many of the city’s top attractions, including the USS North Carolina, the Bellamy Mansion Museum, and the Cape Fear River.
Hotels
Here are some of the top hotels in downtown Wilmington:
- The Hotel Ballast Wilmington: This luxurious hotel is located on the Riverwalk and offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- The Wilmingtonian: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown and offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Southern cuisine.
- The Hampton Inn Wilmington Downtown: This modern hotel is within walking distance to many downtown attractions and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
Bed and Breakfasts
For a more intimate and charming experience, consider staying at one of downtown Wilmington’s many bed and breakfasts: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Mozambique)
- The Graystone Inn: This historic B&B is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion and offers luxurious rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
- The Verandas Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B is located in a historic home and offers cozy rooms, a porch, and a delicious breakfast.
- The C.W. Worth House Bed and Breakfast: This historic B&B is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century home and offers comfortable rooms, a hot tub, and a gourmet breakfast.
Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is a popular beach destination located just a few miles east of downtown Wilmington. Staying in Wrightsville Beach puts you within walking distance to the beach, as well as many restaurants, shops, and water sports.
Hotels
Here are some of the top hotels in Wrightsville Beach:
- The Blockade Runner Beach Resort: This beachfront resort offers comfortable rooms, a private beach, and a range of amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- The Hampton Inn & Suites Wrightsville Beach: This modern hotel is located near the beach and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The SpringHill Suites by Marriott Wrightsville Beach: This all-suite hotel is located near the beach and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
Beach Rentals
For a more home-like experience, consider renting a beach house or condo in Wrightsville Beach:
- Wrightsville Beach Rentals: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, from cozy one-bedroom units to large family homes.
- Turtle Island Rentals: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, including pet-friendly options and properties with private pools.
- Wrightsville Beach Vacations: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, including properties with ocean views and private decks.
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is another popular beach destination located just a few miles south of Wilmington. Staying in Carolina Beach puts you within walking distance to the beach, as well as many restaurants, shops, and water sports.
Hotels
Here are some of the top hotels in Carolina Beach:
- The Hampton Inn & Suites Carolina Beach: This modern hotel is located near the beach and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The Beach House Hotel: This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms, a private beach, and a range of amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
- The Carolina Beach Inn: This cozy hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms, a hot tub, and a continental breakfast.
Beach Rentals
For a more home-like experience, consider renting a beach house or condo in Carolina Beach:
- Carolina Beach Rentals: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, from cozy one-bedroom units to large family homes.
- Island Time Properties: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, including pet-friendly options and properties with private pools.
- Carolina Beach Vacations: This company offers a range of beach houses and condos, including properties with ocean views and private decks.
Other Areas to Consider
In addition to downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and Carolina Beach, there are several other areas to consider when looking for a place to stay in Wilmington: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Port Aransas Texas)
University Area
The University Area is located near the University of North Carolina Wilmington and offers a range of hotels and apartments:
- The Hampton Inn University Area: This modern hotel is located near the university and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington: This all-suite hotel is located near the university and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The University Place Apartments: This apartment complex is located near the university and offers furnished apartments with kitchenettes and a pool.
Midtown Wilmington
Midtown Wilmington is located between downtown Wilmington and the University Area and offers a range of hotels and apartments:
- The Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington: This modern hotel is located in midtown and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The Residence Inn Wilmington: This all-suite hotel is located in midtown and offers a free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
- The Midtown Apartments: This apartment complex is located in midtown and offers furnished apartments with kitchenettes and a pool.
Recap
In conclusion, Wilmington, NC has a wide range of options for places to stay, from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and from downtown apartments to beachside resorts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip, Wilmington has something for everyone. By considering the different areas of the city, including downtown Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, the University Area, and midtown Wilmington, you can find the perfect place to stay for your next trip to Wilmington.
Remember to consider factors such as location, amenities, and price when choosing the best place to stay for your needs. And don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Wilmington, NC. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Stay in Wilmington, NC
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Wilmington, NC?
Wilmington has several great neighborhoods to stay in, depending on your preferences and needs. The Downtown area is ideal for those who want to be close to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and bars. The Riverwalk is another popular option, offering scenic views of the Cape Fear River. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, consider staying in the Carolina Beach or Wrightsville Beach areas, which offer a beach vacation vibe. (See Also: Best Places To Stay At Gulf Shores Alabama)
Are there any pet-friendly hotels in Wilmington, NC?
Yes, many hotels in Wilmington are pet-friendly! Some popular options include the Hotel Ballast Wilmington, the Hyatt Place Wilmington/Downtown, and the Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center. Be sure to check the hotel’s pet policy before booking, as some may have breed or size restrictions, and may charge an additional pet fee.
What are some budget-friendly accommodation options in Wilmington, NC?
If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying at one of Wilmington’s many affordable hotels or inns. The Hampton Inn Wilmington Downtown is a great option, with rates often under $150 per night. You could also look into vacation rentals, such as apartments or houses, which can be more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. Additionally, consider visiting during the off-season (usually November to March) when prices tend to be lower.
Are there any hotels in Wilmington, NC with a pool?
Yes, many hotels in Wilmington have pools! If a pool is a must-have for your stay, consider booking at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverwalk, the Hilton Garden Inn Wilmington Mayfaire, or the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Wilmington Mayfaire. These hotels all have outdoor pools, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the city.
What are some romantic getaways in Wilmington, NC?
Wilmington is a great destination for a romantic getaway! Consider booking a room at the Graystone Inn, a historic bed and breakfast with luxurious amenities. Alternatively, look into vacation rentals with a romantic twist, such as a beachside condo or a cozy cottage with a private hot tub. Whatever your style, Wilmington has plenty of options to make your romantic getaway unforgettable.