Looking for a fantastic family getaway that’s a manageable drive from Charlotte? Pack your bags and head to Wilmington, North Carolina! This charming coastal city offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor adventure, and delicious dining, making it an ideal destination for a memorable weekend trip with the kids.
Getting There:
The drive from Charlotte to Wilmington is approximately 3-3.5 hours, making it a great option for a Friday afternoon departure to maximize your weekend fun.
Family-Friendly Attractions to Explore:
Wilmington and its surrounding island beaches are brimming with activities to keep every family member entertained.
- Battleship NORTH CAROLINA: Step aboard this heroic WWII battleship and immerse yourselves in naval history. Kids will be fascinated exploring the decks, turrets, and living quarters of this incredible vessel.
- North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher: Discover a world of aquatic wonders! From playful otters and rare albino alligators to touch tanks and a giant sea turtle, this award-winning aquarium offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Don't forget to explore the nearby Fort Fisher State Historic Site for more history.
- Children's Museum of Wilmington: Perfect for younger children (ages 0-10), this hands-on museum encourages creative and imaginative play through interactive exhibits focused on arts, science, and culture.
- Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park: If your family loves active fun, this park has it all! Enjoy water slides, a wave pool, mini golf, go-karts, a climbing wall, and an indoor jungle-themed playground. It’s a great way to cool off and burn some energy.
- Carolina Beach Boardwalk & State Park: Experience classic seaside charm at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk with its seasonal amusement rides, arcade games, and weekly summer fireworks. Afterward, head to Carolina Beach State Park, where you can even spot wild Venus Flytraps – a unique local phenomenon!
Delicious Family Dining Options:
Wilmington boasts a fantastic culinary scene with many family-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes.
- Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill (Carolina Beach): This lively spot offers entertainment, games, live music, and fresh seafood. Parents can enjoy grouper bites or steam pots, while kids have cheeseburgers and chicken nuggets. Plus, there's sand volleyball, cornhole, and a pirate ship bouncy house!
- Benny's Big Time Pizzeria (Wilmington): Celebrity chef Vivian Howard's pizzeria offers a casual atmosphere with delicious farm- and sea-to-table Italian cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas and classic pasta dishes. It's a great balance of casual and sophisticated.
- Marina Grill (Wilmington): Located on the riverwalk, Marina Grill offers stunning waterfront views and a diverse menu with locally sourced ingredients. They have a family-friendly atmosphere, often with live music, and are perfect for Sunday brunch.
- Rooster & The Crow (Wilmington): If your family loves Southern comfort food, this is a must-try! Known for their fried chicken and other hearty dishes, they also have an arcade (Fowl Play Arcade) and a beer garden, making it a fun spot for everyone.
- Oceanic (Wrightsville Beach): For a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and fresh seafood, Oceanic is a fantastic choice. They pride themselves on serving the freshest catches and offer a dedicated kids' menu. After your meal, you can stroll along the Crystal Pier.
A weekend trip to Wilmington, NC, from Charlotte offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and delicious food for the whole family. Enjoy your coastal escape!
