A new adventure in Wilmington, NC awaits you with beaches, delicious cuisines, and a thriving craft beer scene. In the Port City, you’ll discover natural beauty, television history, and dining opportunities you’ll rave about for years. We’ve created an epic two-day itinerary for you to get the most from your visit.
Renting an RV in Wilmington gives you more control and versatility on your vacation. RVs provide terrific accommodations, and you can drive them anywhere you wish to go. You won’t have to rush daily to meet hotel check-in times or vacate a guest room before a checkout. An RV offers comfortable space for everyone and simplifies your travels.
Search RV rentals in the Wilmington area.
Preparing for Your Wilmington RV Trip
Prepare for your new adventure by selecting your RV rental. Among your options are the Shasta 18BH, which you can tow with your truck, or the Compass 23TR, which gives you everything you need. RV owners featured on RVshare offer many selections, including Class A, B, and C motorhomes. You can map out your itinerary to where you’ll pick up your RV or set up delivery at your preferred campground or RV park.
Review these helpful resources to find the perfect RV and plan an unforgettable trip:
● Schedule Your RV Delivery
● RV Mistakes You’ll Want to Avoid
● Discover How to Choose the Appropriate RV Size
● Tips for Parking Your RV
Select the perfect RV campsite for your trip and complete your reservation once you’ve finalized your RV rental. Wilmington has a plentiful selection of campgrounds with electric, water, and sewage hookups. Among the popular campgrounds and RV parks are Wilmington KOA Holiday, Oceans RV Resort, Winner’s RV Park, and Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area. Booking your reservation early improves availability and lets you focus on the fun aspects of planning a vacation.
Find other campground options in our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds in Wilmington.
Day 1: A Day in Tree Hill
Morning: Take a “One Tree Hill” Walking Tour
“One Tree Hill” fans visit Wilmington, NC to re-create inspiring scenes from the TV show filmed in the city. Start your journey at Water Street Park nearby the Riverwalk, where many River Court basketball scenes and the Naley’s infamous Cracker Jack bracelet scene were filmed. You can follow this walking tour to find Karen’s Cafe, which later became Clothes Over Bros, the front entrance of the high school, and Greenfield Park, which was the site used for Lucas and Peyton’s wedding. Reserve tickets for TRIC Tours to tour the TRIC nightclub and view key OTH sets, including Peyton’s bedroom and Red Bedroom Records.
Lunch: Dine by the Tree Hill Market
Michael’s On the Waterfront restaurant is another filming location for the show. Outside its doors is a small farm’s market area where many scenes were filmed in One Tree Hill Market. You and your traveling companions will enjoy amazing entrees at the restaurant, including steakhouse ribeye, chicken scarpariello, and the Cape Fear platter.
Afternoon: A Visit to the Bridge
Take a visit to the One Tree Hill Bridge and relive the memories of the opening credits. The North 6th Street/Harry Forden Bridge is located at 694 North 6th Street, and it has a rich history as it was named after the Mayor of Brooklyn, Harry Forden. Fans worldwide will remember this bridge as the starting point on their journey through the many lives of the residents of “One Tree Hill.”
Setting Up Camp
Checking in at your preferred RV campground typically requires you to stop at the visitor center and provide your reservation information to get a parking permit. If you anticipate being tired after sightseeing, you can coordinate RV delivery with setup services. The RV owner offering delivery will set up everything, including connecting to electric and water services. You can relax in your RV and enjoy the campground views.
Dinner: A Wonderful Meal After Sightseeing
Take the three-minute drive to the Copper Penny from the One Tree Hill Bridge. Start your meal with delicious appetizers, including their award-winning chicken wings, cheesesteak egg rolls, or beer-battered onion rings. Choose from various entrees, including honey chicken sandwiches, fish and chips, or the black bean burger, and you can dine in or take your order back to your RV.
Day 2: A Day of Learning and Entertainment
Morning: Experience Art and Culture
Start your morning with a trip to the Cameron Art Museum for a bit of art and culture. The museum features various exhibits each season, and past exhibits have included Thomas Sayre: Four Walls and 5: Five Years of Acquisitions. You can enjoy an independent walk-through or set up a private tour for yourself and your friends.
Lunch: Enjoy a Little Southern Comfort Food
Enjoy Southern comfort food at Rooster and the Crow. Start your meal with fried green tomatoes topped with pimento cheese and bacon jam. Choose from amazing burgers, including the Rajan Cajun, Magical Mushroom Swiss, and Water Street Burger. Stop by the Cryptid Den Bar and Lounge on-site and enjoy a refreshing cocktail or craft beer.
Afternoon: Discover the Local History
The Cape Fear Museum offers many exhibits discussing history and science. Past exhibits have included Hubble Space Telescope: New Views of the Universe, MacMillian: Artist as Solider, and H20 Today. Visitors can park behind the museum, and there are two lots between 9th and Dock and 8th and 9th Streets.
Evening: The Show Must Go On
Live music and performances await you at Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts! Shows you could see include T. S. Monk, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, and Capital Fools. Book your tickets ahead of time to ensure availability and preferred seating.
Day 3 and Beyond in Wilmington
Spending two days in Wilmington provides an epic adventure and plenty of time to see popular sights. However, if you wish to stay longer, there’s much more to see. Consider these gems recommended by locals if you wish to extend your stay in the Port City:
● Navigate through The Cotton Exchange and explore specialty and coffee shops and restaurants. Locals recommend these completely renovated brick buildings for their architecture and the wondrous treasures and experiences you’ll find.
● If you love trains, the Wilmington Railroad Museum offers a 1,500-square-foot model hall with an extraordinary model train and exhibits. You’ll find interactive displays that are fun for the entire family.
● The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is a terrific choice, especially if outdoor activities aren’t possible. The aquarium has received rave reviews from the Travel Channel, and locals love it. Exhibits cover all marine life, including freshwater and ocean favorites.
Summer and Fall Activities
Wilmington offers access to three beaches: Carolina, Kure, and Wrightsville. Visitors and locals enjoy water sports, swimming, and surfing during the summer. However, in October, the city hosts Riverfest, a three-day festival from Water Street to the Cape Fear Community College.
Indoor Activities
Indoor activities are a great escape from the heat, and the Exit Games is a fun option. Exit Games places you and your companions into an immersive storyline where you explore the clues and navigate through the story. Storylines are based on your room escape choice, including White Rabbit Society, Front Street Casino Heist, Hidden Needle Tattoo Parlor, and Dog Gone Alley.
An incredible adventure awaits you in Wilmington with exceptional attractions, entertainment, and dining experiences. Enjoy a journey through a beloved television show and take in art, history, and culture during the day. Relax and recoup in your preferred RV rental in the peaceful surroundings of this Southern city. With our two-day Wilmington itinerary, you’ll experience all the hidden gems and make lasting memories with the people you love.
