The Cotton Exchange Wilmington, NC

The city of Wilmington is nestled between North Carolina’s mighty Cape Fear River on the west and the powerful Atlantic Ocean on the east. Founded in 1739, Wilmington prospered during its early years as a major port and ship-building center. Today the city continues to flourish.

Downtown Wilmington offers eclectic shopping, vibrant nightlife, theatrical productions, coffeehouses and outstanding restaurants that feature fresh local seafood and regional specialties. Inland, you’ll find excellent golf courses, department stores, parks, entertainment complexes, amusements, plantations, a state university and restaurants galore.

Local attractions and annual events are as diverse as the city itself. Visitors can enjoy more than 45 attractions, including day or evening riverboat cruises, museums showcasing North Carolina artists and history, and a variety of tours of the historic district, nature preserves, or movie studios. Traditional festivals such as the N.C. Azalea Festival and RiverFest, among others, celebrate the area’s arts and culture. Overnight options range from riverfront inns to extended stay accommodations and from chain hotels to quaint B&Bs. Discover historic Wilmington and experience Southern hospitality at its finest.