The Wilmington center is around the area of Wilmington Surgcare and the area of Town Hall.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Below are the GSA reimbursement limits for hotel spending in Wilmington, NC excluding taxes per night. See gsa.gov for more details.
Applies to New Hanover
| Season Begin | Season End | Lodging Rate | Meals & Incidentals |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 1, 2026 | October 31, 2026 | $147.00 | $74.00 |
| November 1, 2026 | February 28, 2027 | $110.00 | $74.00 |
| March 1, 2027 | September 30, 2027 | $147.00 | $74.00 |
Below are reviews of the city of Wilmington, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
Waterfront, restaurants, weather.
We've long vacationed at nearby Topsail, so we're quite familiar with Wilmington. City never disappoints.
We love everything about Wilmington and are currently looking at real estate for a more permanent visit and stay. It is growing very quickly with many new amenities.
Dram Yard was incredible. We had the best bartender in the world make us custom drinks that were so perfectly created. We then walked down the Christmas lit river walk while being serenaded by Christmas live music. It was like a movie. 🌲❤️
I was here for UNCW Graduation! Beautiful campus! Ate at “Beer Burrito” downtown. Great food and service. Small locally owned. Also “The Toastery” for brunch. Lovely atmosphere, good food, fair prices! Mayfair shopping area - great shops, theater, restaurants and amusement area!
Wilmington is a beautiful City.The waterfront, the River Walk,. . . the beaches, the historic themes. . . absolutely breath taking. . .
Awesome hospital Novant Surgery Center being so close to the hotel and getting a special rate.
Loved the city. Recommend a visit that allows lots of time to explore!
We didn't go out much but what did experience was very nice and convenient. We really enjoyed the USS North Carolina Battleship museum.
Riverwalk was nice
Enjoy Wilmington very nice spot!
The convenience of a Waffle House nearby.
I work in health care so I appreciate the coffee shops :)
I was there for a class, so didn't really have a lot of time to explore but we had some meals - that were delicious- down by the river- 1 recommended by the staff Copper Penny?? and another Crow and Rooster?? we hit them both early-as suggested and boy! what great advise. by the time we left there were people waiting- again- thank you staff for the tip!! easy to get to from the hotel.
City was great!
I left my meds. The CVS pharmacist on Orleader went over and above to help me with an emergency refill. Total AWESOMENESS, truly cared which is absolutely missing in the world today.
I lived in Wilmington back in the 70's. I have family and friends in the area. A beautiful city with lots of great restaurants and entertainment.
Enjoyed going to Riverfest.
The Riverwalk, shops, the River Fest, Arlie Gardens, Biggers Market
Was in Wilmington for grandson soccer game at UNCW.
Loved it! Lived there for two years 57 years ago! It was great to come back and visit my old stomping grounds!
Easy access to restaurants and Walmart
Good restaurants!
We were there for surgery at hospital. Great hospital.
Downtown historic district
Reminds me of my hometown.
Waterfront
I would love to live here
Wilmington is a beautiful city! Great restaurants, people and lots to do!
Extremely clean and very nice people. I love the diversity of historic downtown and the modern façades and stores of Mayfair. Of course the Riverwalk is lovely and lots of places to dine.
Restaurants on Cape Fear River Elijah's and The Pilot House, nice shops to walk around town, friendly people.
We LOVED Wilmington! Will be vacationing again!
We went to Old Thyme Restaurant. It was a 10 of 10! The food was delicious and we went to another restaurant called Floriana the food was delicious and the service was impeccable
Great reaturants and easy access to grocery store and other stores
Aquarium, Kure beach, 2 restaurants Floriana at Riverwalk, tidewater oyster excellent right outside hol inn exp. The town wilmington way too much traffic. Advertising makes it sound beaches close by. Not so.
We enjoy shopping at the Cotton Exchange. Actually purchased a few things there. We love the food at Patty's hollow. We eat there once sometimes twice every time we come. Enjoy the scenery, the water fountains, plants, flowers and shops.
First time visiting and we really liked the area.
Lots to do and see. Lots of history and electric restaurants and shops. The river is great.
Beautiful place. Close to beaches.
Nice restaurant and friendly people.
Wilmington is a wonderful, historic, coastal town. Very friendly and such good restaurants.
History
PEACEFUL TOWN!
Beautiful downtown!!
Fantastic location.
Proximity to the ocean, cute shops and excellent restaurants.
I liked Shell Beach and Dockside restaurant!
Nice city with great food choices!
Wilmington is a beautiful city to visit. There are lots of places of interest to see and visit. Navigating was easy, met lots of friendly people, and look forward to visiting again.
Riverwalk, historic buildings, being able to see the battleship from the wedding venue (128 South Front Street), the people.
Convenient
We were there for a baseball tournament
The beach
On Thyme Restaurant was awesome. The food was delicious!
Bridge Tender is always excellent! Lumina Station has great shopping and restaurants there are great as well.
Very beautiful beach!
The people in Wilmington are great!
Wilmington seemed very clean and the people were very hospitable .
Good restaurants!!!!
Wrightsville Beach, of course. Free parking November through February as well.
So many restaurants and breweries in downtown. 20 minutes to Carolina Beach. 15 minutes to airport.
Riverwalk and Front Street shops and restaurants. Beautiful Victorian homes and places of worship, art and music.
All the local shops and restaurants!
Lots of history in town.
Beach!
The beach!
Easy to maneuver and lots to do.
We have family in Wilmington and have been coming here for years. We always enjoy the restaurants, historical sites, beaches and shops.
I loved the river walk and the shops downtown. I enjoyed a historic tour and a wonderful dinner along the river.
Very convenient place.
Enjoyed the city. Catch restaurant was five star!
Wilmington is beautiful. The hotel location was very convenient. It was a short drive down to the beach and pier.
Seafood, shopping, beaches, riverwalk!
The beach!
I attended a family reunion, so seeing family was the main purpose and the most rewarding! I did enjoy the Riverwalk and hiking near the water.
The bars/restaurants were amazing. Everyone was so kind and the quality, everywhere we went, was spot on!
It was great was our first time here!
It was great! Our first time here.
I liked the travel distance of eating places.
The variety of restaurants is excellent!
Beautiful eateries.
Beach is beautiful!
Beautiful City
Great part of the country, first time, will visit again.
Wonderful rich and beautiful city! I would enjoy returning for vacation.
Historic downtown and coastal sightseeing!
The beach!