Location: Wilmington
Top Things to do in Wilmington
The 10 Best Shopping in Wilmington, North Carolina (NC)
Wilmington is a vibrant riverfront city and the most accessible coastal area in the state. The pedestrian-friendly Riverwalk winds along the Cape Fear River, connecting many of the city’s shops, cafés, and nightlife with waterfront hotels, parks and the Port City Marina. Annual festivals, such as Riverfest, Wilmington Beer Week and the world-famous North Carolina Azalea Festival, attract crowds year-round. Three nearby island beaches offer even more dining, attractions and water sports.
Restaurants in Wilmington
1. Old Books on Front Street
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By day_tripper_29325 - Clinton, United States
This was my first trip to Wilmington, and I didn’t really know where I was when I ended up on the waterfront. I did know, though, that I was in a port city and that there had to be a bookstore somewhere, and I never pass up a chance to visit the bookstores in the cities and towns where I travel, so I searched for bookstores near me and found this one. And I am so glad I did! It was so much fun just walking through the shop and look g at all of the books and bookmarks and games and other things in there. The ladies that run the store were very nice and I enjoyed taking with them. I hated that I didn’t get to stay as long as I wanted, but, I was in a race with the parking meter and about 10 blocks from the truck, so, I left with the promise to return. Definitely the place to go for your literary zen in Wilmington!
2. Art In Bloom Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
3. The Vintage Marketplace
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By beachlovernc2015 - Leland, United States
You really can't go wrong stopping here - even if you don't purchase anything there is so much to see. It is especially fun during the different holidays of the year- the vendors really do them up big! Beautiful shop with lots of vintage things and variety of styles. Lots of wonderful things to decorate your home with OR yourself - re-imagined jewelry and vintage clothing. Even if you don't think you NEED anything, you are sure to find something you have to have. Owner is wonderful and helpful. If you are looking for something in particular- don't be shy about asking - she can point you in the right direction if it is in the shop.
4. Eclipse Artisan Boutique
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 13 reviews
Eclipse is an award winning artisan boutique in Wilmington, N.C. offering eclectic pieces and work primarily produced from local and regional artisans. Eclipse offers original paintings, custom furniture, sculpture, pottery, glass, jewelry, photography, custom rugs and textiles including an exclusive line of American made luxury Alpaca bedding.
Reviewed By SChafin - Singapore, Singapore
You have to put this store on your must see list. A huge variety and they have some artists work you have to see. The lady waiting on us was attentive and very helpful!
5. Blue Moon Gift Shops
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
As an award winning shopping destination voted best gift shop, Blue Moon Gift Shops has become a Wilmington, NC favorite to locals and tourists alike. Over 100 artisans, retailers and entrepreneurs fill over 8,500 square feet of Blue Moon. Home accessories, furniture, art, pottery, hand blown glass, apparel, hand crafted jewelry, baby gifts, coastal decor, lamps, photography, gourmet fudge and toffee, local NC products and so much more. Complimentary gift wrapping, free parking, exemplary customer service and one of the most unique shopping experiences are just a few of the reasons why Blue Moon has been voted the best gift shop in Wilmington year after year!
Reviewed By pparrothead - Wilmington, United States
My wife and I have shopped at the Blue Moon Gift Shops many times in the past. On this visit we went out for lunch and then decided to do a little shopping for something for our home. There are many vendors inside the building and an excellent selection of items. Everything from Jewelry, to clothes , to artwork, even specialty foods. There always seems to be something new every time we visit...I hope that is a good thing. The shops are always neat. tidy, well organized and stocked. The staff makes sure that your visit is a good one.
6. The Art Works
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By patriciajane108 - Wilmington, United States
I love the Art Works! I had friends who have studios there but you are always made to feel welcome by the owner and other artists. There are artists in all different mediums. The building is set up like New Orleans and every studio has a different design. You have to go.
7. Cape Fear Spice Merchants
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By glindsey155 - Jacksonville, United States
It was an accidental meeting, but ended up with an immediate relationship! I happened upon this shop while walking through the down town on a Saturday afternoon. They not only had a plethora of spices, they had premixed dips, rubs, and marinades. As I ventured deeper into the store, I found a wall full of fresh teas. Cape Fear Spice Merchants is now a regular stop when I go into the city.
8. Mike Bryand Photo-Art gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Art Gallery featuring the photo-art of Mike Bryand and showcasing the work of over 40 emerging and established North Carolina Artist & Craftsmen.
Reviewed By pparrothead - Wilmington, United States
My wife, daughter and I recently ate on the Riverwalk in Historic Downtown Wilmington and decided to do a little shopping, touring, and strolling after lunch. The Bryand Gallery is located in the Old Wilmington City Market just opposite the Riverwalk area. The Bryand Gallery is packed with beautiful artwork, photos on canvas, wood sculptures, and more.There are a lot of choices when it came to styles and designs of their offerings. Many items were of a nautical theme which makes sense when in Wilmington. The owner was there and she was very personable and a pleasure to speak with. if you are in Historic Downtown Wilmington, stop in the City Market and the Bryand Gallery. You will be pleasantly surprised.
9. Expo 216
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 42 reviews
Expo 216 is a gallerium - part museum, part gallery - whose mission is to encourage conscious living through heightened awareness of social and environmental issues.
10. Acme Art Studios
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This is a studio for artists - 20 - and many of the artists have been in this studio space for 20+ years. The artists work in a variety of mediums - acrylic, oil, and watercolor paints, metal sculpture, collage, handmade paper, photography, and clay - whatever sparks their imaginations. Ring the doorbell to have a look around or come on Fourth Fridays when the Studios are open to the public.
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