Walking tours in downtown Wilmington, NC. Fun things to do in Wilmington.

Although most people refer to a particular area of downtown Wilmington as the "historic district", we have almost 6500 properties registered as historic in 8 geographic areas. Are you surprised ?  

The city’s oldest district, and the one most are familiar with, the Wilmington National Register Historic District was created in 1974 and expanded in 2004. It consists of 230 blocks and almost 700 homes and buildings. This is the one where our towns' oldest homes, churches and municipal buildings can be found, as well as many opportunities for visitors to explore the district on foot (shameless plug here for www.wilmington-tours.com), by horse and carriage or along the Riverwalk.

The early suburban neighborhoods of Carolina Heights, Carolina Place, Sunset Park, Market Street Mansion, Westbrook-Ardmore, and Brookwood National Register Historic Districts have many stunning homes, large and small dating from the mid 1800s to mid 1900s. These neighborhoods sprung up as streetcar lines were built out from the riverfront along  Market Street. One can find Arts and Crafts, Cottage, and Brick Tudor style homes, along tree lines streets, lovingly restored with welcoming porches throughout these areas. Pictured above are some of Westbrook-Ardmore's beautiful craftsman cottages.

Number 8 is Masonborough Sound National Register Historic District. It is this ares that represents the birth of coastal tourism in North Carolina and preserves the natural resources of this “oasis of extraordinary beauty.” One can picture escaping the heat and hustle of town in the late 19th century and find respite at these coastal retreats.

All over our town we are surrounded by beautiful homes and natural resources that continue to make the ILM a very special place to be in NC. You can find a map of these districts and a guide to preservation and urban planning here: https://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/2668/636046213882670000