Wilmington, NC is a very family friendly city. You don’t have to look too hard or travel too far to find something fun to do… even with the kids in tow!

The Battleship USS North Carolina

Adults and children alike have enjoyed touring the Battleship USS North Carolina for just over fifty years. I even remember touring this amazing landmark with my family when I was young. Commissioned in 1941, the USS North Carolina was a real, working battleship until being decommissioned in 1947 and placed on reserve for the next fourteen years. The citizens of North Carolina saved the ship from being “scrapped” and brought her back to her home state, where she remains today! Children 5 and under are free. Ages 6 – 11 are just $6.00 and adults 12 and over are $12.00. Visiting North Carolina’s very own Battleship is a great way to spend the afternoon while you learn a thing or two about the crew that lived aboard!

Airlie Gardens

Not just for the garden lovers, Airlie Gardens is a great place to catch a concert, take a relaxing stroll or take in their fabulous holiday lights display known as Enchanted Airlie. Be sure to stop by the model train and Lego Blocks during the holiday season.  As you stroll along the edge of Bradley Creek and tour the amazing gardens, check out the 467 year old “Airlie Oak.” The gardens are open from 9am to 5pm every day during the regular season. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 6 – 12 years of age. A steal for what you get, if you ask me!

Jungle Rapids

If you’re hoping to cut loose and go for a wild ride or two, Jungle Rapids is a great place to let it all go! Known not only for a great round of putt-putt, but also their water park, Jungle Rapids has more than a days activities in one location. They have water slides, a huge wave pool and of course, a lazy river in the water park. There’s a giant indoor playground for the little ones and laser tag if you’re trying to escape the heat. And what theme park would be complete without a go kart grand prix? Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 10am - 10pm. Friday and Saturday from 10am - 12 (Midnight) and Sunday from 12pm - 10pm. And water park hours are 11am until 6pm daily during the season. Pricing is subject to change, so please visit their website at www.JungleRapids.com for more information.

The Children’s Museum of Wilmington

If you’re looking to escape the heat or entertain your children (or inner child) for the afternoon, The Children’s Museum is a great option. Located in historic downtown Wilmington on Orange Street, the  museum is aimed to serve children ages 1 through 10. Teaching children through role playing and hands on activities, the children’s museum has lots to do for the kids and parents! Their hours are 9am through 5pm Monday through Saturday. And from 1pm until 5pm on Sundays. Children under 12 months old are free and adults and children are $8.00.

The Beach

And don’t forget – a place where you can learn, have fun, play, and be as loud as you like – the beach! It’s one of the original family friendly places you can always visit – no hours and no admission. Just don’t forget to pay for parking if necessary. ;)

If you would like more information about these or other activities in Wilmington, please feel free to contact me at Carrie@CoastalCarolinaProperties.com.

Carrie Upchurch

910.833.4947