Surprise! It’s raining in Wilmington, what else is new?
It’s no secret that the Port City receives a significant amount of rainfall. However, now Spring has officially begun, and with it will come a greater chance of heavy downpour. Have no worries though, as there are always things to do in Wilmington despite the weather.
Case in point, if you wish to combat the drizzly day with a fun pastime, then a trip to the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher might suffice. However, if aquariums aren’t your thing, then Jungle Rapids is a worthy mention because it houses multiple indoor activities. These activities consist of the arcade, laser tag, mini-bowling, rock climbing, and go-karts. At Jungle Rapids, there are endless possibilities and zero ways to get bored.
For those who love some rainy-day shopping and dining, downtown is where to go. In the heart of the Port City resides popular retail centers like the Cotton Exchange and the Old Wilmington City Market. Both places boast a unique shopping atmosphere and are a sure way to keep busy amidst the rain.
But if you happen to be a history nerd, Wilmington is quite the historical gem. Aside from the USS North Carolina Battleship, there are plenty other landmarks and museums to visit. Some of these options include the likes of Poplar Grove Plantation, Bellamy Mansion Museum, Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, Museum of the Bizarre, Wilmington Railroad Museum, and the nationally-recognized Thalian Hall of Performing Arts. Each destination provides a memorable experience for everyone and serves as the perfect way to kick the rainy-day blues.
Whether it’s a rainy Spring day, or merely a boring one, this guide is designed to help turn things around. Although these recommendations might not stack up to the beach, they’re definitely just as fun.
Who needs the sunshine anyway, am I right?
-Kristen Weiderman
IMC Hawks Blog 
Hi Kirsten!
I am an international student from the Netherlands. One of my reasons I chose for Wilmington was because I thought the weather would be nice in the winter. Unfortunately, it wasn’t totally true. I am so happy to read about these fun activities I can do when it is raining. Because when the weather sucks, I am sort of stuck on campus. Thanks!
I have been here for almost 3 years and never done half of the stuff you listed above! This is should be posted in Wilmington’s traveler’s guide. Next time I am bored or tired of watching raindrops fall, I will think back to your article and maybe try out some of the spots mentioned!
Really cool article! A majority of students are attracted to Wilmington because of the beach, but little do they know that there is so much more. Wilmington is particularly known for their history and it is a lot more interesting than most college students think! Making this knowledge more accessible to students and people around this city can not only beat sitting around all day doing nothing, and help out local businesses! It is a relief to know that there are options for people who can not sit still for too long – thanks!
Kirsten,
I agree that there are numerous options of things to do here in Wilmington if it rains. Also someone who grew up in a small part of New Jersey, I am still amazed at the amount of things to do in Wilmington. It is an amazing town with some many option you could never not pick one. Everyone has something for them here.
Hey Kristen!
Great recommendations and great article! I have been living in Wilmington since 2012 and still have not gotten around to doing some of the things you mentioned. However, the Museum of the Bizarre and Jungle rapids just got moved to the top of my weekend to do list. I can not tell you how much I agree with you about the weather in Wilmington. I swear it is bi-polar! Thanks for the quick guide and reminder of fun activities.
I stopped to read this article because it happens to be raining as I sit here and write this. Great suggestions, I love going to the aquarium! I think because so many people who are attracted to the Port City are mostly attracted to the beach, it is easy to forget how amazing our historic district is! There is so much in this city that I almost appreciate more on a rainy day. Wilmington also has an amazing selection of good coffee shops from the beach to the river. My favorite place to grab something warm to drink when its coming down is Drift Coffee and Kitchen. Great vibes!