Wilmington shines not just for its charming streets and historic buildings, but also for its wide range of engaging tours that reveal its hidden corners, scenic waterways, and fascinating stories. Whether you’re tempted by the thrill of sailing along the Cape Fear River, eager to learn about its architectural history, or want a lively pub crawl on wheels, Wilmington offers something for every traveler. One of our favorite experiences is the Sunset Harbor Cruise Tour—a relaxing way to end your day with stunning views and wildlife spotting—while the private sailing charters provide intimate moments on the water that are hard to match. For those interested in a mix of history, craft beer, and active exploration, the Wilmington E-Bike Tour stands out for its blend of fun and storytelling.
Whatever your style, Wilmington’s tours make finding the city’s story both easy and memorable. Now, let’s look at the best options on the list.
1. Sailing Charters in Wilmington
At number 1, the Sailing Charters in Wilmington offers a private adventure on a sailboat for up to six passengers. For around $90, you get approximately two hours of serene sailing along Wilmington’s downtown riverfront. This experience stands out because it’s one of the few sailboats available for charter in the area, giving you a unique vantage point of the city’s riverwalk, ports, and waterfront landmarks. The flexible schedule allows you to choose a morning, afternoon, or sunset cruise, and you’re welcome to bring your own drinks on board—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply relaxing with friends.
Guests rave about the personal touch of the captain and crew, with reviews highlighting the stunning sunset views and the friendly, knowledgeable host. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, private escape on the water. The experience’s intimacy and flexibility make it a top pick for sailing enthusiasts or anyone wanting a quiet moment away from the crowds.
Bottom line: If you want a private, customizable sailing experience with unbeatable views, this tour delivers at excellent value.
2. History and Architecture Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is the History and Architecture Walking Tour, which immerses you in Wilmington’s over 300 years of development. For just $25, you’ll spend about an hour and a half walking through the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, discovering Bellamy Mansion, the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens, and admiring architectural styles from Spanish Baroque to Neoclassical. The guide shares stories of Wilmington’s role in the Civil War and its evolution, making history come alive.
Reviews commend guide Amanda for her depth of knowledge and engaging delivery. The walk includes stops at key sites and offers a comfortable, slow-paced exploration, making it accessible for all ages. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a leisurely introduction to Wilmington’s past and present.
Bottom line: For a budget-friendly, insightful intro to Wilmington’s history and architecture, this tour is hard to beat.
3. Trolley Pub Public Tour
Number 3 is the Trolley Pub Public Tour, a lively two-hour pedal-powered pub crawl. For $49, you’ll cruise downtown Wilmington’s best bars, such as Slainte Irish Pub and Hell’s Kitchen, on a mobile bar on wheels. This tour is BYOB, with a cooler onboard, and you can even play your own music—making it a fun, social way to see the city.
Guests love the relaxed, fun atmosphere, with many noting how Luz, the guide, keeps everyone laughing and engaged. It’s ideal for groups of friends or couples wanting a casual, entertaining experience with plenty of opportunities to mingle and enjoy local watering holes. The pedal aspect encourages interaction, but you can also just relax and soak in the sights.
Bottom line: If you want a spirited, social way to explore Wilmington’s nightlife, this tour hits the spot.
4. THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
Number 4 is the History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour, combining history, architecture, and craft beer for a four-hour adventure. For $75, your small group explores downtown Wilmington on electric bikes, visiting Thalian Hall, Bellamy Mansion, and Oakdale Cemetery, then stopping at three local breweries. The e-bike makes covering more ground easier, especially in the summer heat.
Guests highlight the personalized experience with a small group size of just four. The guide’s commentary makes history engaging, and the brewery visits are a perfect way to relax and sample local brews. The tour is ideal for craft beer lovers or those interested in Wilmington’s architecture and historic sites.
Bottom line: For a mix of active sightseeing and beer tasting, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
5. Sunset Harbor Cruise Tour
Number 5 features the Sunset Harbor Cruise Tour, a 1.5-hour voyage for $50 that offers some of the most photogenic moments in Wilmington. The boat departs from Wrightsville Beach, sailing around Masonboro Inlet to give you spectacular views of the barrier islands and wildlife, including dolphins and turtles. The crew provides live commentary, making the experience both relaxing and educational.
Reviews mention the “beautiful evening” views and the captain’s friendly approach. This cruise is great for couples, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful moment on the water with a chance to see marine life in their natural habitat. It’s especially popular at sunset, when the sky paints the scene in warm hues.
Bottom line: If you’re after a scenic, wildlife-rich cruise at sunset, this is a top choice.
6. Sunset Sail Tour
Number 6 is the Sunset Sail Tour, a 2-hour yacht ride costing $125 per person. For a more luxurious experience, you’ll enjoy sailing aboard a 42-foot yacht with scenic views of Wrightsville Beach and the barrier islands. Light refreshments and drinks are included, and you can select from morning, afternoon, or sunset departures.
Travelers praise Captain Jim for his knowledge and friendly demeanor. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in a quieter, elegant outing. Watching the sunset from the water is a truly memorable scene, especially with dolphins sometimes joining the cruise.
Bottom line: For a premium, scenic sailing adventure with all the comforts, this cruise is hard to beat.
7. Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach
Number 7 takes you on the Island Hopper Cruise, a lively two-hour trip costing $50. The boat features a bar, sound system, and LED lights, turning the cruise into a party while you explore nearby islands. Wildlife like dolphins is common, and you’ll have plenty of time to collect seashells on the soft sands.
Reviews praise the fun, relaxed atmosphere and the crew’s friendliness. This tour is perfect for groups of friends or families who want a more social, energetic experience, with opportunities to swim, wade, or just chill on the beaches.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a casual, fun-filled island-hopping cruise, this tour fits the bill.
8. 2-Hr, 30-Min Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour/Sightseeing/History
Number 8 offers a guided e-bike tour through Wilmington’s core attractions for $65. Lasting around two and a half hours, it covers downtown, the Riverwalk, Greenfield Lake, and historic neighborhoods. The electric bikes make hills and distance manageable—perfect for families or casual riders.
Reviews highlight the personal touch of the guide and the ease of riding the e-bike, with many appreciating the off-the-beaten-path sights and local flavor. The tour is customizable for different group sizes and interests, making it a versatile choice. It’s particularly good for those who want a mix of sightseeing and light exercise.
Bottom line: For active explorers who want a comprehensive, fun way to see Wilmington, this e-bike tour won’t disappoint.
9. Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise
Number 9 is the Eagles Island Narrated Boat Cruise, costing just $24 for about an hour. This short tour offers live narration about Wilmington’s past, wildlife, and landmarks, with options to cruise north along the Historic Downtown or south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.
Reviews mention the friendly guide and the relaxing pace. It’s excellent for travelers tight on time or those wanting a quick overview of the river and island scenery. Wildlife sightings like eagles, shipwrecks, and flora add interest.
Bottom line: For a brief, informative boat ride that covers key sights, this cruise is ideal.
10. Afternoon Sail
Number 10 features the Afternoon Sail, a 2-hour voyage for $125. This intimate experience aboard a 42-foot sailing vessel is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the coastal scenery. It’s all about relaxing, wildlife watching, and salty breezes, with the captain handling all sailing duties—so you can unwind.
Guests appreciate the personal atmosphere, with reviews noting the knowledgeable captain and the opportunity to spot wildlife like dolphins. Limited to six passengers, it’s suited for couples, small groups, or families looking for a peaceful adventure.
Bottom line: For a quiet, personalized sailing experience, this tour is a top choice.
11. Wilmington Ghosts: Phantoms of Pirates and Patriots Tour
Number 11 is the Wilmington Ghosts Tour, a 1-hour walk through haunted sites like Thalian Hall and the Cotton Exchange. For $24, you get to explore Wilmington’s spooky tales and supernatural legends, with lively guides sharing stories of spirits and eerie occurrences.
Reviewers mention the engaging storytelling and the fun atmosphere, making it suitable for families or those interested in ghost lore. The tour involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bottom line: If ghost stories and haunted history fascinate you, this quick tour offers a fun, spooky evening.
12. Historic Happy Hour
Number 12 is the Historic Happy Hour, a 3-hour experience combining architecture, history, and wine or cocktails. For $30, you’ll explore Wilmington’s National Historic Register District, learning about colonial and Gothic architecture, while making stops at local wine bars and private lounges like the Wine Knot Sky Bar.
Guests love the personal attention and the mix of learning and relaxing at cozy bars. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely pace, interesting stories, and a little tipple. The tour is best booked in the cooler months when outdoor walking is more comfortable.
Bottom line: For a relaxed, social way to soak in Wilmington’s architecture and drink some local wine, this tour is ideal.
13. Black Water Adventure Cruise
Number 13 offers the Black Water Adventure Cruise, a 1-hour 45-minute trip for $33. Cruising along the Cape Fear River, this tour focuses on wildlife, with guides pointing out birds, alligators, and plant life. The boat also passes through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and near the Rose Hill Plantation.
Reviews highlight the relaxing atmosphere and good narration. It’s a short, engaging option for travelers wanting a quick overview of nature and ecology without the fuss of longer tours.
Bottom line: If wildlife and river scenery appeal to you, this short cruise offers a peaceful escape.
14. One Tree Hill Superfan E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
Number 14 celebrates Wilmington’s famous filming locations with a four-hour E-Bike Tour costing $75. You’ll visit sites like Brook Davis’s house, Nathan’s House, and the Clothes Over Bros set, with stories of the show woven into your ride.
Guests love the personalized route and the chance to see iconic spots from the popular TV series. The guide makes the experience fun and informative, with stops for photos and snacks. It’s perfect for “One Tree Hill” fans or anyone interested in film locations.
Bottom line: For a fun, themed bike tour that combines pop culture with sightseeing, this tour hits the mark.
15. Two-Hour Group Surfing Lesson in Cocoa Wrightsville Beach, NC
Number 15 provides a group surfing lesson, ideal for beginners or those wanting to improve. For $110, you’ll spend two hours learning to catch waves at Cocoa Beach, with all equipment provided. The class limits to 10 students, ensuring personalized instruction from experienced surf instructors.
Reviewers praise the friendly owner and instructor, making even nervous beginners feel welcomed. The warm water and manageable waves provide a safe environment for all skill levels.
Bottom line: If you want to try surfing in a supportive group, this lesson offers excellent value and fun.
16. Private Charter
Number 16 is the Private Charter, perfect for groups up to six wanting a customizable sailing adventure. For $775, you choose your route—whether offshore sailing or exploring Wrightsville Beach—while enjoying the company of a knowledgeable captain.
Guests mention the ease of meeting at the access ramp, the quality of the boat, and the chance to see dolphins, shipwrecks, and marine life. It’s a premium experience suited for special occasions or those seeking complete privacy on the water.
Bottom line: For a tailored, luxurious sailing outing, this private charter offers total flexibility and comfort.
How to Choose the Perfect Wilmington Tour
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. For a relaxing water experience, the Sunset Harbor Cruise or Sunset Sail provide stunning views and wildlife. If history is your focus, the Walking Tour or the Ghosts Tour offer engaging stories and atmospheric settings. Active travelers might love the E-Bike Tour, while groups seeking a lively outing will enjoy the Trolley Pub or Island Hopper Cruise.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times like sunset cruises or private charters. Think about the type of experience you prefer—quiet and scenic or lively and social—and choose accordingly.
Wilmington offers a rich variety of tours that cater to every taste and interest. For lovers of the water, the private sailing charters or scenic boat cruises are unbeatable. History buffs will find the walking and ghost tours enlightening, while those seeking active fun can’t go wrong with the e-bike adventures or surf lessons. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.