Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cary, NC to Wilmington, NC
By Samantha Jones
Cary, NC - If you're looking for a fun road trip with plenty of things to do, look no further than the scenic drive to Wilmington, NC. This trip has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to historic lighthouses. The halfway point of Newton Grove, NC is the perfect rest stop to admire the countryside scenery and grab some refreshments.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. Visit the Battleship North Carolina
Located in Wilmington, the Battleship North Carolina has become an iconic attraction for military history buffs and families alike. Step aboard and embark on a self-guided tour of the ship deck, engine room, and captain's quarters. The battleship has an illustrious history, having served in every major naval offensive in the Pacific during WWII. The battleship's conservation efforts have doubled its visitation in the past five years alone.
Fun Fact: The North Carolina was the first of ten battleships to be decommissioned after WWII and was the first battleship to be taken over by a state-funded organization.
2. Explore the Arboretum at New Hanover County
Located in Wilmington, the Arboretum at New Hanover County provides a unique, immersive experience with beautiful gardens, plants, and natural habitats. The Arboretum encompasses around seven acres of plants that highlight the biodiversity of the coastal plain. Visitors are encouraged to see the exotic plant collection of the world's famous gardens and explore planned and pristine nature trails.
Fun Fact: The arboretum was originally established in 1989 during the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service and has since served as part of the botanic gardens.
3. Take a dip at Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach is a beautiful and prominent stretch of sand that offers spectacular views that stretch for miles over the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Located in Wilmington, this beach destination offers swimming, boating, and fishing with plenty of beachside dining options to indulge after a day of fun with the family.
Fun Fact: Wrightsville Beach was recently ranked #7 on Tripadvisor's Traveler's Choice Awards for "Best Beaches in the USA."
4. Visit the Airlie Gardens
In Wilmington, Airlie Gardens spans 67 acres and features dancing fountains, camellia blooms, and numerous art sculptures created by local artists. The gardens host a wealth of festivals and events throughout the year, from the "Spring Garden Festival" to the "Poinsettia gala event."
Fun Fact: Airlie Gardens' 10-acre freshwater lake, Bradley Creek, regulated the flow of saltwater inlets, greatly contributing to the garden's lush plant life.
5. See the Oak Island Lighthouse
The Oak Island Lighthouse is a striking landmark in Brunswick Beach. The lighthouse, 169 feet tall, has been serving as a navigational aid for ocean-going vessels approaching the Cape Fear River since 1958. Visitors are allowed to climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the magnificent view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Fun Fact: This lighthouse is unique in that it was not built on a continuous foundation, which has caused some structural difficulty in the past.
Conclusion
This road trip between Cary and Wilmington offers an ample amount of exciting adventures not to be missed. This trip is roughly a two and a half-hour journey without stops made, so visitors should note to plan and pack accordingly for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Adventure awaits for families, history lovers and nature enthusiasts on the open road.