Family Adventure in Wilmington, NC: A 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Wilmington

Wilmington, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Dixie Grill

Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast at The Dixie Grill, known for its delicious biscuit sandwiches and pancakes that your kids will love.
Located at 1720 Dawson St, you'll be just a short drive to your next destination.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Battleship North Carolina

Step aboard the iconic Battleship North Carolina for a fascinating naval adventure, where your family can explore wartime history through interactive exhibits.
Head southeast from the diner, crossing the river via the Memorial Bridge, which takes about 10 minutes.
USD20 per adult, USD10 per child, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Brooklyn Pizzeria

Enjoy a mouthwatering pizza at Brooklyn Pizzeria, offering a variety of toppings and delicious slices to satisfy everyone’s palate.
Drive back to the Historic District, a 10-minute trip.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Stroll through the Wilmington Riverwalk

After lunch, take a relaxing stroll along the scenic Riverwalk, where you can enjoy beautiful views and stop for ice cream at one of the local shops.
The Riverwalk is a short walk from Brooklyn Pizzeria, just a 5-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Children's Museum

Let your kids immerse themselves in hands-on activities at the Children's Museum of Wilmington, which features interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
It's a quick 5-minute drive from the Riverwalk to the museum.
USD10 per person, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Caprice Bistro

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at Caprice Bistro, where French-inspired dishes cater to both adult and child tastes.
Located about 5 minutes away, you can easily drive from the museum.
USD80, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening at Wrightsville Beach

End the day with a beautiful sunset at Wrightsville Beach, where the kids can play on the sand while you relax.
A 15-minute drive will get you to the beach.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 2: Beach Day Fun

Wrightsville Beach, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill

Start your beach day with a fun breakfast at Tower 7, famous for their breakfast burritos and fresh juices.
It's a quick drive of about 5 minutes from your accommodation.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Beach Day at Wrightsville Beach

Spend the morning enjoying the sandy shores, building sandcastles, and splashing in the waves at Wrightsville Beach, a family favorite.
Just walk down to the beach from breakfast, which is only 2 blocks away.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Johnny Mercer’s Pier Restaurant

Refuel with fresh seafood and sandwiches at Johnny Mercer’s, where you can enjoy ocean views while dining.
A short 5-minute walk from the beach.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kayak Rental

Rent kayaks for a fun family adventure on the water, exploring the nearby marsh and spotting local wildlife.
Walk to the kayak rental shop along the beach for about 5 minutes.
USD120 for 2 kayaks for 2 hours, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax on the Beach

After kayaking, head back to the beach for some relaxation or beach games, letting the kids run wild while you unwind.
Just a quick walk back to your beach spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Oceanic

Enjoy dinner at The Oceanic, where you can feast on seafood and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
About a 10-minute walk east from Wrightsville Beach.
USD85, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Sunset Walk

Take a post-dinner stroll along the beach to enjoy the vibrant colors of the sunset while listening to the waves crash.
Right where you are, simply step outside.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Exploring Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Veggie Wagon

Start with a unique breakfast at The Veggie Wagon, where you can enjoy healthy options and delicious smoothies.
A 25-minute drive south to Carolina Beach.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Carolina Beach Boardwalk

After breakfast, stroll along the vibrant Carolina Beach Boardwalk, filled with shops, games, and attractions.
Just a short 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Use the Beach or Enjoy the Amusement Rides

Spend some time on the beach or take the kids for a spin on the fun amusement rides at the boardwalk.
The beach is easily accessible from the boardwalk.
USD20 for rides, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pop's Diner

Enjoy a retro diner experience at Pop's Diner, where the menu features burgers, fries, and shakes that the whole family will enjoy.
It's right on the boardwalk, just a 5-minute walk.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Explore nature trails and discover local wildlife at Fort Fisher, a short drive away, where the kids can learn and play.
A 15-minute drive from the diner.
USD5 parking fee, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Crab Stop

Finish your family adventure with a hearty seafood dinner at The Crab Stop, where you can indulge in local catch and family-style meals.
A 20-minute drive back to Carolina Beach.
USD75, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll on the Beach

Wrap up your trip with a peaceful evening stroll along Carolina Beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and embracing the last moments of your getaway.
Just a short drive or walk to the beach.
Free, 1 hour
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