This week I snuck my boys and mom in my suitcase for the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Conference in beautiful Wrightsville Beach, NC. While I enjoyed some long overdue quality time with my colleagues from North and South Carolina soaking up best practices, my crew explored this beautiful eastern NC coastal region.
Here are a handful of family-friendly “must-dos” if you have limited time. I also threw a few things that were highly recommend, but we’ll do next time we visit.
Blockade Runner Beach Resort: This quaint boutique hotel is sandwiched in between the Atlantic coastline and the intercoastal waterway was where we stayed during our brief visit. We had a “Harbor View” room where we could watch boats passing by and the gorgeous sunset in the evening. It’s generic and bland curbside appearance doesn’t do justice for the adorable interior design, the nice pool area & other beach front amenities, the tasty food, the cleanliness throughout the entire property and the hospitable and accommodating staff. Some of the fixtures in the rooms could use an upgrade, but all in all, I would most definitely come back.
Historic Wilmington Riverwalk: On the way down to Wrightsville Beach, we stopped to do some exploring in nearby Wilmington, NC. The historic Wilmington Riverwalk borders the Cape Fear River and features a mile-long boardwalk with retail shops, restaurants, bars and more. There are also great views of the USS North Carolina Battleship. We enjoyed a locally brewed beer and a “Mug-o-Bacon” (yes, it’s about a half pound of bacon crammed into a beer stein….and magical) at Front Street Brewery and some delicious gelato at Gelarto.
Little Dipper Fondue on Front: After our stroll on the Riverwalk, we found our way to Little Dipper Fondue Restaurant for dinner. This dining experience was a 5 out of 5 in our book! The Little Dipper menu includes premium meats & fresh seafood, cheeses, vegetables, several cooking styles to choose from and a plethora of homemade sauces for dipping. We chose the three-course deal for two which included a cheese fondue course, a soup or salad course and a main course, which includes up to four different proteins and an assortment of vegetables that you cook yourself at your table. The portions were plentiful enough to split with our littles. The service was well-paced and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly.
Gulfstream Restaurant Wrightsville Beach: This is a great little spot in Wrightsville Beach for a traditional southern breakfast. Our crew enjoyed french toast, waffles, avocado toast & a basic two-egg your way breakfast with some country ham and bacon. Reasonably-priced and the coffee was hot!
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher: My mom and the boys enjoyed the morning at the NC Aquarium in Kure Beach, NC and it was a hit for my marine-life loving boys. They explored the various exhibits, including the Otters, sea turtles, sharks and more. A must-visit if you’re travelling with kids.
Dockside Restaurant, Wilmington, NC: A great spot to enjoy some fresh seafood! This is flagship location that’s nestled on the bank of the intercoastal waterway and marina. Dine inside or enjoy lunch or dinner al fresco on the deck. We were there off-season, but I imagine it’s a busy spot during the summer months.
Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding area is quite the destination to visit in North Carolina. It was a privilege to get to spend several days there with my little crew. We’ll definitely be back!
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