11 Incredible Historic Sites In Wilmington, NC You Can’t Miss
If you’re looking for historic sites in Wilmington, NC, you’ve come to the right place!
As a history lover, I enjoy going off the beaten path to find hidden gems, but in Wilmington I didn’t have to look very hard to find amazing historic sites from different eras of American history.
(Where else can you visit a Revolutionary War battlefield and a World War II battleship on the same day)?
Whether you love history or just want to explore a beautiful riverside town that is both historic and hip, Wilmington is the place for you.
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Where to Stay In Wilmington
⭐️ Budget: Front Street Inn (On the river)
💲 Mid-Level: ARRIVE Wilmington (Great location & outdoor spaces)
💰 Luxury: Embassy Suites by Hilton (On the river)
My Favorite Historic Sites In Wilmington
Wilmington, N.C., is a city where history lingers around every corner. From colonial-era homes to Civil War battlefields, its past is woven into the streets, waterfront and historic districts.
The best part about Wilmington is that there is something for everyone. Whether you love exploring centuries-old architecture, walking in the footsteps of soldiers, or uncovering hidden stories, Wilmington offers plenty of choices.
Keep reading to see my top must-see historic sites (in no particular order) that bring the Wilmington area’s rich past to life.
Before we dive into this post, I invite you to grab a copy of my TRAVEL PLANNER. This 16-page PDF guide helps you organize your trip, from what to pack, to preparing a budget and keeping a schedule.
1. Bellamy Mansion Museum
Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll love going inside this 10,000-square-foot Civil War-era architectural gem! Built in 1861, it is one of Wilmington’s most stunning antebellum homes.
The mansion’s Greek Revival and Italianate design, along with its well-preserved original slave quarters, offer an unfiltered look at pre-war Southern society. You can take a self-guided tour at your own pace or go on a guided tour.
👉 Insider Tip: Visit during a special event or take a guided tour to hear stories of how the house was occupied by Union forces during the Civil War.
Location: 503 Market St., Wilmington, NC
Ticket Sales: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Self-Guided Tours: $15 with special prices for seniors, military and students
Premium Guided: $20 and $10 for students
2. Fort Fisher State Historic Site
Once the “Gibraltar of the South,” Fort Fisher played a crucial role in protecting the port of Wilmington, which was a vital supply line for the Confederacy. The fort fell to Union forces in January 1865, marking a major turning point in the Civil War.
Today, visitors can explore remnants of the fort, walk scenic trails along the Cape Fear River, and see artifacts in the new visitor center. It’s a great place to learn history and stretch your legs along a beautiful walking trail.
👉 Insider Tip: Catch one of the Civil War reenactments or interactive living history events to bring the past to life! And when you’re done touring, head a short distance down the road to the Fort Fisher Recreation Area and enjoy the beach.
Location: 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd., Kure Beach, N.C.
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free to explore
💡 Quick tip: Save money while exploring top Wilmington attractions by booking with Viator or Get Your Guide.
3. USS North Carolina Battleship
Docked across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington’s Front Street, the USS North Carolina is a floating museum that honors the brave sailors of World War II. This massive battleship, which participated in nearly every major Pacific campaign, is a must-see for military history enthusiasts.
(And even if you’re not, you can’t help but be awed by this ship).
Visitors can explore nine levels of ship, including engine rooms and gun turrets while learning about its incredible wartime service.
👉 Insider Tip: You can get great views of the USS North Carolina when you take an Eagle Island Narrated Boat Cruise. Learn about the area’s history and wildlife while enjoying an afternoon cruise.
Location: 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, N.C.
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except holidays
Cost: General Admission $14; Seniors and Military $10.
4. Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Built in 1770, the Burgwin-Wright House is the only colonial-era home in Wilmington open to the public.
Originally constructed as the town jail, the house was later transformed into a grand residence. Its period furnishings, beautiful gardens, and Revolutionary War history make it one of the must-see historic sites in Wilmington.
It’s truly a Wilmington historic gem! Magnificent!
👉 Insider Tip: Ask about the ghost stories and hidden passageways rumored to exist in the house. And don’t forget to find out about Wilmington’s Outlander tours!
Location: 224 Market St., Wilmington, N.C.
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Adults, $15; Seniors and Military, $13; Students, $7.
5. Moore’s Creek National Battlefield
Moores Creek National Battlefield is a true historic treasure located just outside of Wilmington. It’s the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle fought on February 27, 1776, that had a significant impact on the trajectory of the war.
This clash between North Carolina Patriots and Loyalist forces was one of the first major victories for the revolutionaries in the South, helping to secure momentum for independence.
Visitors can walk the historic battlefield trail, see reconstructed earthworks, and explore exhibits at the visitor center detailing the battle’s significance.
I highly recommend watching the short movie in the visitor center to get an understanding of the battle.
The park also features a reenactment site, a scenic bridge replica, and memorials honoring the soldiers who fought there, making it a must-visit for history lovers.
Make sure you check out events that are planned in February of 2026, when Moore’s Creek kicks off the National Park Service’s 250th anniversary commemoration events.
Location: 40 Patriots Hall Dr., Currie, N.C.
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free to explore
6. Brunswick Town and Fort Anderson
I have to say that Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson was one of my absolute favorite historic sites in Wilmington. I was blown away by the archaeological site that showcases layers of history dating back to the colonial era.
Once a bustling port town, Brunswick was burned by the British during the American Revolution and later became the site of Fort Anderson, a Confederate stronghold in the Civil War.
Visitors can walk among the ruins of colonial homes and see the well-preserved remains of the fort. The site’s peaceful setting along the Cape Fear River makes it a great place to explore history at a relaxed pace.
They also have a museum that explains the different layers of history that can be found on the site.
Location: 8884 St. Philip’s Rd. SE, Winnabow, NC 28479
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and designated state holidays
Admission is free
7. Oakdale Cemetery
Oakdale Cemetery in Wilmington, N.C., is a must-visit for history buffs, offering a glimpse into the city’s past through its beautifully landscaped grounds and notable gravesites.
Established in 1852, it is the oldest rural cemetery in North Carolina, featuring elaborate Victorian monuments, Confederate graves, and memorials to prominent Wilmington residents.
One of its most famous burials is Rose O’Neal Greenhow, a Confederate spy who drowned off the North Carolina coast while trying to evade capture during the Civil War. Her grave honors her role in espionage and the Southern cause.
Oakdale’s winding paths and ornate tombstones tell stories of war, politics, and local legacy, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in 19th-century history. If you’re like me and enjoy wandering through historic cemeteries, then put Oakdale on your must-see list.
Location: 520 N. 15th Street, Wilmington, N.C.
Free to explore
Interested in ghosts? Check out U.S. Ghost Adventures Haunted Wilmington Tour.
8. Airlie Gardens & the Airlie Oak
Though known today for its stunning gardens, Airlie Gardens has deep historical roots dating back to 1884, when it was developed into a picturesque garden that showcases Southern elegance.
Live oaks draped in Spanish moss, dot the winding walking paths and peaceful ponds.
The most famous landmark within the gardens is the Airlie Oak, a massive live oak tree estimated to be more than 400 years old, making it one of the oldest in North Carolina.
The tree has silently witnessed centuries of history, from colonial times to the present day. Airlie Gardens is a perfect place for history lovers to appreciate both the beauty and legacy of Wilmington’s past.
There is so much to see at Airlie Gardens for both history and nature lovers!
Location: 300 Arlie Road, Wilmington, N.C.
Hours: Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price: $10 for adults; $5 for military and Hanover County residents; $3 children
9. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
I didn’t have this historic site in Wilmington on my itinerary, but when I walked past the building, I knew I had to see more. Opened in 1858, Thalian Hall is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the United States and is a true cultural gem.
This stunning venue has hosted performances, lectures, and political gatherings for over 150 years. The architecture alone is worth the visit, with intricate details that reflect the grandeur of 19th-century theaters.
Visitors can take guided tours to hear behind-the-scenes stories of famous performances, ghostly legends, and the building’s transformation over the decades. There’s nothing like seeing a live show, so I loved being treated to a performance of Ain’t Misbehavin‘.
Location: 310 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, N.C.
Tours: General, $15; Military, $12; Students, $8; Members and children under 5, Free.
Want to see Wilmington close up? Take an ebike adventure to Wilmington’s historic sites and breweries. The tour combines history, sightseeing, and craft beer for a half-day small-group guided e-bike tour.
10. Wilmington River Walk
The Wilmington Riverwalk offers a scenic stroll along the Cape Fear River, blending history, culture, restaurants, shopping, and vibrant waterfront views.
Once a bustling port in colonial times and a key shipping hub during the Civil War and World War II, the area is now lined with historic buildings, charming shops, and waterfront restaurants.
Along the way, visitors can see landmarks like the USS North Carolina Battleship, the Cotton Exchange (great shopping!), and markers detailing Wilmington’s maritime and wartime history.
With picturesque views, historic charm, and plenty of spots to explore, the Riverwalk is a perfect way to experience the heart of Wilmington’s past and present.
11. Joseph Ryder Lewis Jr. Civil war Park
The 10 previous historic sites in Wilmington are fairly well known, but the Joseph Ryder Lewis Jr. Park is a true hidden gem.
Christened in 2021, it continues to evolve around remnants of fortifications of the “Sugar Loaf Line of Defense.” The site includes approximately 150 yards of original Civil War earthworks on about 12 acres.
To find the park, you have to pull into the Publix parking lot and look to your left. You can park and walk down a short path, reading the exhibit signs along the way.
Location: 1018 Lake Park Blvd., Carolina Beach
Free to explore
Check out my resources page for lots of helpful travel sites.
Bonus Historic Places To See In Wilmington
A great way to explore Wilmington’s history is to take a Wilmington True History Tour, which gives you an in-depth look at historical sites in Wilmington. I highly recommend taking a tour, because as you can see, there is a lot to explore! You don’t want to miss any of the historical sites in Wilmington!
For a lighter history lesson with an added “spooky factor,” book a Haunted Wilmington Tour and be entertained from true storytellers while hearing about Wilmington’s past.
Need Lodging In Wilmington?
If you enjoy staying in historic hotels and B&B’s, check out my posts and historic hotel reviews.
Wrap-Up Of Historic Sites In Wilmington NC
As you can see, Wilmington, N.C., is full of history—and has diverse historic sites that showcase the city’s rich past.
Whether you’re interested in military history, architecture or forgotten stories, these locations will transport you back in time and show you a side of Wilmington that many visitors miss.
When you’re done sight-seeing, don’t forget the nearby beaches! Wrightsville, Carolina and Kure beaches are beautiful and a short drive from Wilmington!