Prior to European settlement, the area encompassing Wilmington was inhabited by numerous Algonquian peoples. Reportedly, Giovanni da Verrazano was the first explorer to spot the area in the early 16th century, but permanent settlement wouldn't come until the 1720s, when English colonists moved to the area. In 1732, a community formed on the Cape Fear River and was dubbed New Carthage. It took on a number of names before the town was incorporated as Wilmington around 1740 in honor of Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington.
Today, Wilmington is a popular East Coast vacation destination boasting numerous attractions, beautiful beaches, and affordable accommodations. Whatever your reasons for visiting this port city, it's important to plan ahead, so you can find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything Wilmington has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Wilmington, NC
The most popular time of year to visit Wilmington is in the summer, when families from across the region flock to the city's sunny shores in search of an oceanside getaway. Average highs hover in the high 80s to low 90s, resulting in perfect weather for swimming, surfing, water skiing, and visiting water parks. With the influx of tourists, however, comes increased hotel rates; you'll be lucky to find a reasonably priced room during the summer months. Still, if you plan your vacation months in advance and book your room early, you can take advantage of discounted prices.
Tourism tapers off in September, which is an ideal time to visit Wilmington. Hotel rates start to level off, but temperatures remain in the mid-80s, giving visitors the best of both worlds. While most of the fall season is a prime time to visit, Wilmington does experience a small surge of visitors in October, although it's nothing like the summer months.
Winter in Wilmington can be quite chilly, with temperature averages reaching the mid to high 50s in December and January. While winter isn't the ideal season for water activities, hotel rates are at their lowest and provide great opportunities to explore the city's attractions on a budget. Just be sure to pack a few layers, and be prepared for chilly wind gusts.
Spring is another great time to visit Wilmington because the weather is warming back up but tourists haven't yet descended on the city, so hotel rates stay low through early May. If you plan on jumping in the ocean, plan your spring vacation for April or May when the weather is warm enough.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Wilmington, NC:
Wilmington, NC: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Wilmington, NC. Browse these illustrations to determine the best time period to make a reservation in Wilmington for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Wilmington, NC
If you're looking to splurge on an upscale property in Wilmington, you have a number of options.
Staybridge Suites Wilmington – Wrightsville Beach is a modern all-suite property set just 5 miles from the Wilmington International Airport. The hotel offers bright, airy studio suites with paid Wi-Fi access, full kitchens, 42-inch flat-screen TVs with DVD players, pullout sofas, and work desks. One- and two-bedroom suites add separate living areas for extra space. The property hosts evening receptions with refreshments and provides a complimentary airport shuttle service. Additional amenities include an exercise room, business center, a BBQ area, a heated indoor pool, and laundry facilities.
Hotel Riverwalk is a charming property in the historic district boasting large sweeping porches, abundant foliage, a lobby bar, and sophisticated guest lounge, all offered with a warm, welcoming service that exudes Southern hospitality. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, large windows, 11-foot ceilings, minifridges, coffee makers, irons with ironing boards, hair dryers, and microwaves. Hotel Riverwalk also places you within steps of unique shops, entertainment venues, and fine restaurants.
Beau Rivage Golf & Resort is a colonnade-fronted lodge and golf resort set off Highway 421 less than 6 miles from Carolina Beach. The resort offers traditionally decorated two-room guest suites with separate living areas, microwaves, minifridges, Wi-Fi access, and golf course views, making it the perfect choice for avid golfers. Guests receive a discount on the property's championship golf course and also have access to tennis courts and the clubhouse bar and grill.
Affordable Hotel Options in Wilmington, NC
3 Star Average Prices: $152.93
Finding an affordable hotel in Wilmington is easy if you're willing to be flexible.
Howard Johnson Express Inn – Wilmington is a modest low-rise property 5 miles from Airlie Gardens and 7 miles from Wrightsville Beach. Guest rooms are low-key, offering cable TV, free Wi-Fi internet access, tea and coffee makers, minifridges, and microwaves. Enjoy a free continental breakfast served in the hotel's dining room, as well as free parking.
Super 8 Wilmington is a simple budget accommodation located off Highway 17 close to downtown. Guest rooms and suites boast cable TV, minifridges, coffee makers, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi, plus kids 17 and under stay free with a paying adult. Additional amenities include an on-site business center, free large-vehicle parking, and a complimentary continental breakfast.
Set in a retail area, Red Roof Inn Wilmington is a low-key property 7 miles from the USS North Carolina exhibit. The hotel offers complimentary coffee, parking, and continental breakfast, and also features a seasonal outdoor pool. Guest rooms are straightforward, offering free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, and televisions. Upgraded rooms add minifridges, microwaves, and coffee makers.
2 Star Average Prices: $76.09
Best Discounts in Wilmington, NC
If you plan your trip in advance, you can save even more money by taking advantage of discounts.
Many area hotels, including Fairfield Inn & Suites Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach, offer both early-bird and last-minute promotions. Early booking at these properties can save you anywhere from 10 to 30 percent off the hotel's best available rates, so don't be afraid to book your trip well in advance.
Alternatively, if you need to book a room at the last minute, many area hotels offer a reduced rate on last-minute weekends if you're willing to stay at least two nights. These deals vary by hotel and aren't always available since many rooms fill up during peak tourist season.
Most hotels, such as Hilton Wilmington Riverside, extend special rates to seniors, AAA members, AARP members, government employees, military personnel, travel agents, and corporate travelers. Depending on where you stay, these special rates could save you as much as 20 percent off the total cost of your trip.
Best Value Options in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington offers a number of midrange hotels that give travelers the best bang for their buck.
Hampton Inn Wilmington-Medical Park is a modern property just two blocks from New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Guest rooms are classically decorated and include custom-designed beds, free Wi-Fi, work desks, lap desks, flat-screen TVs with HD channels, minifridges, and coffee makers. Some rooms add pullout sofas and kitchenettes, which are ideal for extended stays. The hotel also offers a free hot breakfast, weekday breakfast bags to go, an outdoor pool, a fitness room, meeting rooms, a business center, a garden with a gazebo, and free parking.
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn is a relaxed waterside property overlooking the Cape Fear River. Guest rooms are understated but feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with HD channels, minifridges, and coffee makers. Some include river views. Upgrading to a suite will also get you a lovely mezzanine-level bedroom. Guest amenities include on-site parking, a free continental breakfast, 24-hour gym, business center, and a boat dock behind the property.
The Wilmingtonian is a unique all-suite option set in a trio of historic buildings. Located within walking distance of the Cape Fear Museum, The Wilmingtonian offers individually decorated guest suites and themed rooms with private porches or balconies, free Wi-Fi access, minifridges, coffee makers, cable TV, and microwaves. Some rooms feature four-poster beds, kitchens, and laundry facilities. Guests can enjoy a free continental breakfast, gourmet coffee in the lobby, free parking, rocking chairs, and a private courtyard.
Top Museums in Wilmington, NC
With so much to explore in Wilmington, you may be wondering where to start. The USS North Carolina Battleship is one of the city's most popular attractions and is open every single day of the year. This WWII battleship and museum has been moored across the river from downtown Wilmington, beckoning visitors to explore her many decks. You'll begin your experience by viewing an introductory movie and browsing the exhibit hall before boarding the ship. After that, you're free to explore the battleship at your own pace before finishing your journey at the gift shop.
The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science is a delightful facility that collects and preserves objects related to the culture, history, and science of the Lower Cape Fear. It's also the oldest museum in the state, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Wilmington.
Exploring Wilmington is a tall order, but with a little planning, you'll walk away with countless memories and the urge to return. Whether you're looking for an affordable hotel near downtown or a riverside property with all the amenities, you'll find the perfect hotel in Wilmington to meet your needs and budget.
FAQs about hotels in Wilmington
How much does a cheap hotel in Wilmington cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Wilmington can be as cheap as $76.09 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Wilmington cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Wilmington has been $152.93 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Verified reviews of the city of Wilmington
Below are reviews of the city of Wilmington, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Beautiful City with Great Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I spend a lot of time in Wilmington. Have friends and family there. It's a beautiful city lots of things to do great food!
Shirley J., from 21-Mar-2024
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything is close by the hotel.
Jo N., from 13-Mar-2024
"On the Waterfront"
Score
5.0 / 5
I liked that it was on the waterfront!
Tracy L., from 01-Mar-2024
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything is close by!
Jo N., from 28-Feb-2024
"Very Nice"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very nice!
Walter W., from 05-Jan-2024
"Great Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great shopping!
Brenda J., from 26-Dec-2023
"Unique Shops!"
Score
5.0 / 5
All the unique shops!
Rosa V., from 25-Dec-2023
"Rucker John's Restaurant"
Score
5.0 / 5
Visiting with my son and eating at Rucker John's. We don't have a restaurant like that here.
Larry S., from 19-Dec-2023
"Great Place to Visit"
Score
4.0 / 5
It's a great place to visit. Lots of places to see!
Lisa W., from 26-Nov-2023
"Fresh Seafood!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I loved the fresh seafood!
Reginald T., from 18-Nov-2023
"Love Wilmington!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Very familiar with Wilmington and love I the city!
Charles L., from 14-Nov-2023
"The Wilson Center, historic area, beach."
Score
4.0 / 5
The Wilson Center, historic area, beach.
Carol D., from 08-Nov-2023
"Proximity to Wilson Center, Historic District & Beach!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great concert at the Wilson Center. Liked the historic district and of course the beach.
Carol D., from 07-Nov-2023
"Near the beach and private."
Score
4.0 / 5
Near the beach and private.
Jorge R., from 15-Oct-2023
"Wrightsville Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
Wrightsville Beach
Holly C., from 05-Oct-2023
"Many interesting places to visit!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many interesting places to visit!
Henry R., from 03-Oct-2023
"Choices of Restaurants & Things to Do"
Score
5.0 / 5
I love the choices of places to eat and things to do.
Patricia C., from 27-Sep-2023
"Pro Personnel"
Score
4.0 / 5
The personnel was very professional.
Raymon C., from 23-Sep-2023
"Quaint Downtown Historic District"
Score
5.0 / 5
Downtown historic area was very quaint.
Sharon V., from 20-Sep-2023
"River Walk!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The river walk conveniences.
William G., from 18-Sep-2023
"Wilmington is Beautiful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Wilmington is beautiful, green and has everything one could need or want.
Larry H., from 15-Sep-2023
"Cast Iron Kitchen for Sunday brunch was awesome!!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Cast Iron Kitchen for Sunday brunch was awesome!!
Gw A., from 11-Sep-2023
"A Place We've Been Coming to For Many Years!"
Score
5.0 / 5
It's a place we have been coming to for many years, we made friends here and spend our summer vacation nearby.
Colin A., from 27-Aug-2023
"Loved the Beaches & the City!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved the beaches and the character of the city overall!
Doris P., from 23-Aug-2023
"Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park & The Bizarre Museum!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Fun things to do in Wilmington were: going to the beach, Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, The Bizarre Museum, and Elijah's Seafood Restaurant.
Sarah C., from 21-Aug-2023
"Delicious Food!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Food is delicious!
Alfred B., from 03-Aug-2023
"Great Place!"
Score
4.0 / 5
It is a most hospitable place peopled by kind individuals.
Stephen D., from 19-Jul-2023
"Beach, kayaking, food."
Score
4.0 / 5
Beach, kayaking, food.
John M., from 05-Jul-2023
"Beaches!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beaches!
Saira C., from 04-Jul-2023
"Lots of places to shop and explore!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of places to shop and explore!
Raethan P., from 29-Jun-2023
"Most Hospitable!"
Score
5.0 / 5
It is a most hospitable place peopled by kind individuals.
Stephen D., from 28-Jun-2023
"Fair"
Score
4.0 / 5
Fair.
Stephen B., from 26-Jun-2023
"Close to the Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beach is close by hotel.
Anita H., from 20-Jun-2023
"USS North Carolina & Cape River Tour"
Score
4.0 / 5
USS North Carolina totally worth the stop and Cape River tour.
Gerard M., from 15-Jun-2023
"Beach"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beach
Jessie W., from 14-Jun-2023
"Located near stores and restaurants."
Score
5.0 / 5
Located near stores and restaurants.
Addie B., from 12-Jun-2023
"Nice Ballfields"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice ballfields; the weather was great.
Dannie D., from 12-Jun-2023
"Quiet Hotel Near Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
How quiet and close to restaurants it was!
Christopher M., from 07-Jun-2023
"Beach!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beach!
Jason W., from 03-Jun-2023
"Topsail Island"
Score
4.0 / 5
We did some shopping then headed to Topsail Island and enjoyed the ocean.
Mary C., from 29-May-2023
"Will Stay Again!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Will stay at this hotel again!
Paul P., from 21-May-2023
"Love Carolina Beach!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love Carolina Beach!
Robert B., from 20-May-2023
"Airlie Gardens, Riverwalk & USS Batteship North Carolina"
Score
4.0 / 5
We enjoyed Airlie Gardens, the USS Battleship North Carolina and dining along the Riverwalk!
Alice V., from 20-May-2023
"Hotel was very clean; staff was very friendly and helpful! "
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel was very clean; staff was very friendly and helpful! Great views, activities, restaurants, evening life and people!!!
Mark O., from 18-May-2023
"Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beach
Jason W., from 16-May-2023
"Variety of Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
A variety of restaurants and ease of finding my way around.
Marjorie C., from 07-May-2023
"Everything Was Good"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything was good!
Sammy B., from 07-May-2023
"Close to Great Restaurants & Beaches!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Beaches are close and great places to eat!
Willa H., from 27-Apr-2023
"Great Restaurants, the Boardwalk & the Azalea Festival!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I visited a few of my favorite Wilmington restaurants: Elijah's downtown and Oceanic on the ocean. Walked along the boardwalk downtown and enjoyed the Azalea Festival.
Joanne B., from 20-Apr-2023
"Historical Sites"
Score
4.0 / 5
Visited historical sites. It's easy driving around the city!
Craig E., from 20-Apr-2023
"Novant Health Hospital"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like the great hospital in Wilmington! Novant Health is outstanding!
Rebecca C., from 20-Apr-2023
"Lots of Events & Delicious Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots of events and things to do in Wilmington. Food is delicious. Enjoyed the walks.
Portia C., from 17-Apr-2023
"The staff was friendly and welcoming. Hotel was very clean."
Score
5.0 / 5
The staff was friendly and welcoming. Hotel was very clean. Wilmington us a beautiful place to visit! Love it!
Frank W., from 29-Mar-2023
"The Beaches!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Enjoyed the beaches!
Samuel G., from 18-Mar-2023
"Love the Beach!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Love the beach!
Kevin D., from 13-Mar-2023
"Great Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Within a few minutes you can be downtown or at the ocean. Lots of good places to eat.
Joe V., from 09-Feb-2023
"Great places to eat!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The great places to eat.
Sheryl P., from 28-Jan-2023
"The Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
Near the beach!
Judith T., from 29-Dec-2022
"Nice"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice
Chris T., from 27-Dec-2022
"Easy walking distance to almost everything!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy walking distance to almost everything! Beautiful city!
Nancy K., from 20-Dec-2022
"Comfy stay, large rooms and bathrooms. Friendly staff."
Score
5.0 / 5
Comfy stay, large rooms and bathrooms. Friendly staff. Highways was smooth riding and streets clean.
Marjorie S., from 02-Dec-2022
"Malls"
Score
4.0 / 5
Malls
Margaret M., from 07-Nov-2022
"Clean rooms and comfortable beds."
Score
5.0 / 5
Macedonia MBC and staff also had those and more, served us with respect and dignity. God Bless you one and all🌹💯🫂
Joan F., from 27-Oct-2022
"Good Location With Easy Beach Access"
Score
4.0 / 5
Easy access to shops and beaches and staff was very nice and friendly.
Kim D., from 05-Oct-2022
"Quaint, safe downtown area with nice bars & restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
Quaint downtown area with nice bars snd restaurants. Felt very safe walking around in evenings.
Corinne A., from 27-Sep-2022
"Easy to access beaches restaurants, etc."
Score
5.0 / 5
Access to many different beaches, cities, activities, and restaurants easily.
Beca D., from 27-Sep-2022
"Great facility and polite staff."
Score
5.0 / 5
The city and the people
Azell B., from 26-Sep-2022
"The Ocean!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Family and the ocean!
Ann O., from 11-Sep-2022
"The Ocean!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The ocean!
Ann O., from 10-Sep-2022
"River Walk and the Train Museum"
Score
5.0 / 5
River Walk and the Train Museum.
Brenda C., from 03-Sep-2022
"Good customer service."
Score
5.0 / 5
Staff was very helpful and polite.
Gary W., from 29-Jul-2022
"Downtown boat ride is beautiful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I really enjoyed Wilmington the boat ride downtown was beautiful!
Keisha L., from 26-Jul-2022
"Wrightsville Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Wilmington, as well as Wrightsville Beach!
Sandra W., from 25-Jul-2022
"I love Wilmington, as well as Wrightsville Beach!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Wilmington, as well as Wrightsville Beach!
Sandra W., from 25-Jul-2022
"Close to the beach!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to the beach!
Dutton B., from 25-Jul-2022
"The Beach!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Not far from the beach!
Dutton B., from 25-Jul-2022
"Wilmington has a bevy of amazing restaurants and activities!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Wilmington has a bevy of amazing restaurants and activities. You're 20 minutes from the beach and the river is gorgeous.
Henry P., from 10-Jul-2022
"Wrightsville Beach"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel nicely located for my needs. Wilmington is a lovely city and Wrightsville Beach is near by. Enjoyed the USS North Carolina ...
James S., from 24-Jun-2022
"Riverwalk, walkable, lots to see!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Riverwalk, walkable, lots to see!
Patricia S., from 02-Jun-2022
"Great Service!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The kind of great service one would get five to ten years ago!
James H., from 01-Jun-2022
"Convenient Location Near Food & Activities"
Score
5.0 / 5
Hotel was close to many places to visit for food or activities.
Savana L., from 24-May-2022
"Nice Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
Working in area, thought it was nice.
Tony E., from 21-Apr-2022
"The old historic homes are beautiful."
Score
4.0 / 5
The old historic homes are beautiful.
Gordon T., from 14-Apr-2022
"Beautiful"
Score
4.0 / 5
What we saw was beautiful and very leisurely.
Linda H., from 11-Apr-2022
"Love Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Love Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach!
James M., from 26-Dec-2021
"Wilmington is North Carolina’s true jewel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Wilmington is North Carolina's true jewel!
Meshell H., from 19-Dec-2021
"Beautiful City "
Score
4.0 / 5
City of Wilmington is very nice.
Glynnis E., from 20-Jul-2019
"EXCELLENT!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Downtown brewery names Front Street Brewery was excellent.
Tyler R., from 14-Jul-2019
"Great Hotel!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I live here so of course I would say the beaches.
Beverly J E., from 23-Jul-2018
"Great hotel!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close enough to beach and restaurants. Also Worked out perfect for our needs.
Brad W., from 13-Jun-2017
"Must Try!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The downtown life and the food was great. Hell's Kitchen is a great place to eat.
Donna M., from 21-Dec-2016
"Amazing Food!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We enjoyed dining at K38 Baja Grill and The Cape Fear Seafood Company. Hugh McRae Park was a great park for our 9U State baseball tournament.
Haden M., from 27-Jun-2016
"Good Outing"
Score
4.0 / 5
We really only went to the ice hockey rink but it was very enjoyable.
Kyla B., from 21-Oct-2015
"Memorable Visit"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lot of things to see and do and there was something of interest for each of the members of our party.
Thomas D., from 14-Oct-2014
"Great Fun"
Score
5.0 / 5
We liked that there were numerous activities to choose from and hundreds of places to shop and eat at. We took advantage of the amazing proximity to both Kure and Carolina Beaches as well as Wilmington Beach. We had great fun!
Camellia P., from 08-Aug-2014
"Everything to do in Wilmington."
Score
5.0 / 5
Wilmington offers many things to do. We enjoyed our stay there.
Edward M., from 07-Jul-2014
"Interesting"
Score
5.0 / 5
Loved the waterfront and the historic district looked very interesting.
Gail R., from 28-May-2014
"Friendly and Nice"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good variety of restaurants and shopping. Friendly people. Nice downtown and riverfront.
Nancy R., from 07-Apr-2014
The average traveler rating of the city of Wilmington, NC shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 98 reviews