This is a guest post by Morgan Large, a graduate student at the University of Arkansas.
In my opinion Myrtle Beach can sometimes be too crowded and the beach is not the cleanest. If you are looking for another type of vacation drive a few more miles north up the coast to Wilmington, North Carolina.
Wilmington has something for everyone from families to young adults and even seniors. There are ample things to see and do around Wilmington, North Carolina, but below are five things I love about Wilmington.
#1 – The USS North Carolina Battleship
Even if you are not a history buff, the enormity and beauty of the USS North Carolina Battleship will keep you amazed and entertained.
The USS North Carolina has been open to the public since 1962 with many other battleships being sold for scrap or decommissioned.
You could literally spend hours upon hours touring the ship’s 2,633-ton frame from upper to lower decks.
The whole family will enjoy this stop in Wilmington.
#2 – North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
One of four North Carolina costal aquariums, Fort Fisher boasts gigantic lobsters and glow in the dark jellyfish along with many other sea creatures.
Fort Fisher Aquarium was rated as one of the top aquariums in the United States by the Travel Channel and as Wilmington parents’ top attraction in 2012.
You must stop at Fort Fisher to see the albino alligator and pet the horseshoe crab in their interactive sea life exhibit.
#3 – Carolina Beach and Kure Beach
Here at both beaches, you will find some of the softest and cleanest sand around.
The low-key, stress free atmosphere at these beaches will make you want to come back for more.
If you want a relaxing, nice time along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean during the summer or anytime of year, visiting either one of these beaches will be sure to put you in your own paradise.
#4 – Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park–
The word for this place is fun. It has fun for all ages. Cotton candy, ice cream, and amusement rides, what else could you ask for?
It has the classic New Jersey boardwalk look but is scaled down with a charming, more personal feel.
After a long day at the beach, cool off with an ice cream cone with sprinkles and let the kids go on the rides.You may even want to take a ride or two yourself on the Ferris wheel or carousel.
#5 – Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar–
All of the tiki bars you have heard about on beaches with perfect locations, views and beverages, Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar is one of them.
From the lime green paint, ocean view and cold drinks, Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar is one of a kind with beach access on Carolina Beach, a stunning view and fabulous atmosphere.
The eye popping green tiki bar draws you in after a few hours on the beach for a refreshing, cold drink or dinner.
Have you ever been to Wilmington, North Carolina? What did you love about Wilmington?
Morgan Large loves to explore the world. She’s traveled across the United States and to 11 countries.
Originally from Ohio, Morgan currently lives in Arkansas with her Australian Shepherd, Oxley.
A graduate student at the University of Arkansas, Morgan’s studies are focused in agricultural communications. Her blog, RazorBuck: A Midwestern girl living in a Southern world highlights her adventures in photography, cooking and travel.
If you’d like to read more about Wilmington, North Carolina, check out these books:
Wilmington (NC) (Then & Now)
Insiders’ Guide to North Carolina’s Southern Coast and Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina (Postcard History)