Wilmington is a wonderful place to live because not only does it have a wonderful atmosphere, but hidden gems reside here as well. Dig a little deeper and you will come across a unique part of Wilmington. Below are five places to visit that are off the beaten path and will fit any budget.
- OCEANIC PIER
The Oceanic Pier is a great place to go to when in Wilmington. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this is the place to visit when needing a break from the stress of college. It is quiet and peaceful. A place where you can get lost in the smell and sound of the ocean. Another great aspect of this place is that the pier is free to everyone, and it has its very own restaurant you can visit. Not to mention, there is a coffee shop and beach store across the street from the parking lot.
- THE IVY COTTAGE
Needing a little décor to spice up your dorm room or apartment? Ivy Cottage is the way to go. Antiques come from all over NC and are showcased in four buildings, for all to see and buy. They have everything you can imagine at great prices. One of a kind antiques, that has a story and a charm of its own. You will get lost in the wonder and along the way, you may be able to find an antique that speaks to you.
- THE DEAD CROW COMEDY CLUB
Sometimes you just need a pick me up after a long day of classes, work, and assignments. The Dead Crow is a great place to go for getting rid of the blues, and for putting on your happy shoes. Enjoy the relaxed and quaint atmosphere as the comedians entertain you with their comedic scripts. Food, drinks, and adult beverages are served to help make your experience more enjoyable. The Dead Crow is located in the heart of downtown Wilmington. Once the show is over, feel free to pop across the street to I love New York Pizza. Their pizza is a great way to end the night.
- THE END OF 421
Some challenges in life can feel endless. However, what if I told you could complete a challenge here in Wilmington? A once in a lifetime opportunity that you can always remember? That challenge is going to the End of 421, the very END. The road turns into sand and disappears beneath you as you tread forward. You are met with the sound of crashing waves and seagulls chirping. There are little paths you can follow once you get to the end and a hill that you can climb to see a magnificent view from the very top. It is a very beautiful and serene place to visit.
- THE BLACK CAT SHOPPE
The Black Cat Shoppe is a place out of this world when it comes to finding exotic and unusual things. When you walk in you will see old fashion toys such as witch fingers and all types of creepy crawlies. Magic sets and even a couple of Ouija boards can be found, waiting to be bought. Soap and essential oils freshen up the room with fragrances out of this world. Go further in and you will find more interesting things that will remind you of what it was like to be a child again. Once you have found all your goodies and your tummies begin to rumble, feel free to visit the ice cream shop next door. Their ice cream will make your tastebuds soar.
-Myranda Ross
IMC Hawks Blog 
While I agree that these things make Wilmington unique and memorable to those visiting, I feel that there is one major attraction that is missing from this list – the U.S.S. North Carolina Battleship Memorial. Even disregarding the fact that the North Carolina is one of the most honored Navy ships in history, the battleship represents the character of the North Carolinians that fought to keep a beautiful ship that represented the finest of the U.S. Armed Forces had to offer in World War II, and the backdrop that the U.S.S. North Carolina provides is what makes our riverfront one of the most unique places in the Southeastern U.S.
I really enjoyed your post simply because the list, in its entirety, included things that I had never heard of. I recently moved to Wilmington and it seems that every website suggests the same things over and over again. I am grateful to have heard something new to ad to my “must-see” list!
Thanks for posting!