Wilmington - City Between River & Ocean

Wilmington is a city and also the seat of the Newfeatures like the marinas, boardwalk, pier, Ferris
Hanover County in the state of North Carolina inwheel, gazebos and some specialty shops.
the United States. It was named after SpencerOne of the most popular activities in the area is
Compton, the Earl of Wilmington and also thefishing and the anglers can really test their skills at
Prime Minister under King George II.not only the piers but also on deep sea charters.
One of the most unique features of this town isThe nearby state park also adds up to the
that it is situated between a river and an ocean.excitement quotient with a vast array of coastal
Wilmington was settled on the Cape Fear Rivervegetation and fauna.
and the Atlantic Ocean is just 20 minutes fromThere are a lot of low cost budget
the town. Wrightsville Beach is just 20 minutesaccommodations on the beach which provide a
drive from the downtown. The town wascomfortable stay in the vicinity of all the
originally situated on seven hills located on theattractions in town.
east side of the Cape Fear River.Kure Beach: This beach is situated at the southern
Wilmington is not only famous as a beach town. Ittip of the Pleasure Island and is a small family
has other attractions which include the Battleshiporiented community. It is truly a family vacation
North Carolina which is now converted in adestination and offers a scenic view of the Cape
museum. Apart from this, there are the ArlieFear River, the Atlantic Ocean and the Zeke's
Gardens and Screen Gem Studios where popularIsland Estuarine Complex.
TV shows like Dawson's Creek and One Tree HillThere is scope for a variety of activities on the
were shot.beach front. The Kure Beach Fishing Pier is 711
One of the major factors which have turnedfoot long and is hugely popular among people who
Wilmington into a major tourist destination is theare interested in fishing. The Fort Fisher has a
moderate four-season climate, the historical sitesgreat history to tell to the visitors who come
and also the annual cultural events like the Azaleahere. This fort is also the largest earthen fortress
Festival and the numerous championship golfof its kind in the south.
courses.The North Carolina Aquarium also attracts a large
The city has a multitude of activities for all thecrowd. It features a huge salt water tank which
age groups and suited to almost everyone'scontains live exhibits as sharks, sea turtles,
interests. There is ample scope to enjoy thealligators and other native marine life.
historic monuments in the town which include aThe Wrightsville Beach: It is one of the two
variety of architecture, unique shops and quaintbarrier islands on the Cape Fear coast and is a
restaurants. The Beaches of Wilmington prove tounique place in itself. This beach was established in
be a haven for the boaters, surfers, beach1899 and was earlier accessible only by water.
combers and sun bathers. One can really enjoyBut today it is a major tourist destination for
the seafood in this town.weekend getaways.
The three main beaches of Wilmington are:It is a beach community which reflects a
Carolina Beach: This beach was established in 1857village-style charm. It has a clean and uncluttered
and is one of the oldest resort community locatedfive-mile stretch of white sand and sparkling
on the Pleasure Island, the larger of the twowater. Wrightsville Beach proves to be a paradise
barrier islands on the Cape Fear Coast. The beachfor people who love beach combing, swimming,
reflects the nostalgic charm and a warmsun bathing, surfing and piers.
hospitality with a total family atmosphere. ThereThus this city between the river and the ocean
are many activities to be found on the beachattracts a lot of visitors and is growing in
along with some of the quintessential Americanpopularity as a tourist destination.