Wilmington, North Carolina, offers a surprising variety of tour experiences that showcase its coastal charm, rich history, and lively arts scene. Whether you want to sail along the Cape Fear River, explore the city on an e-bike, or uncover its darker stories through ghost tours, Wilmington has something to satisfy every curiosity. We especially enjoy the Wilmington: 2-Hour Waterfront Charter because it offers a peaceful way to take in the coastline with a breeze and a delicious onboard lunch, providing a truly unique perspective of the port city. The city’s scenic riverfront and maritime vibe are best appreciated from the water, making this a highlight for any visitor.
Wilmington’s tours also include fascinating history lessons, lively bike rides, and spooky ghost stories—perfect for those who want to get under the city’s skin (the good kind). We’ve rounded up the 11 best tours, each offering a distinct way to experience Wilmington’s personality, whether through eco-cruises, historical walks, or ghostly adventures.
1. Wilmington: 2-Hour Waterfront Charter
At number 1, the Wilmington: 2-Hour Waterfront Charter takes you out on the largest and fastest sailing vessel available for public charter on the Cape Fear. For $90 per person, you’ll enjoy 2 hours of sailing on the Wilmington River Walk, where the wind guides you past scenic views only a few get to see. The experience includes the chance to relax either above or below deck, depending on your mood, and savor a tasty onboard lunch. The reviews are stellar, with a 5/5 rating from 23 satisfied travelers who loved the sense of adventure and exclusive access to the water. This tour is ideal for anyone craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a bit of maritime thrill.
The boat’s speed and size mean you’ll comfortably take in the coastline, spotting wildlife or the busy port activity. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to combine a sense of freedom with stunning views. The only potential downside is the weather-dependent nature—if it’s stormy, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. Bottom line: a spirited sail on Cape Fear’s waters that provides fresh air, spectacular scenery, and a touch of ocean adventure.
2. 2-Hour, 45-Minute Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour
This Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour ranks high for its fun pace and flexibility. At $70 per person, it’s perfect for those who want to cover a lot of ground without breaking a sweat. Starting with guidance on how to navigate your e-bike, you’ll explore Downtown Wilmington, Greenfield Lake, and even pass by famous movie locations—think “Dawson’s Creek” or “One Tree Hill.” The 4.9 rating from 14 reviews reflects how much riders appreciated the mix of scenic riding, wildlife spotting, and city insight.
The tour is a great fit for active travelers who want an immersive, fast-moving look at Wilmington’s highlights. You’ll cycle through forests, along the water, and learn about local ecology—all while enjoying the ease of electric pedal assist. The only thing to keep in mind is that some sections involve moderate riding, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike. Bottom line: an energetic way to see Wilmington’s best sights with a professional guide and plenty of fresh air.
3. Dark History: Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour
For those interested in Wilmington’s complex past, the Dark History: Wilmington Coup and Massacre offers a sobering, insightful look into 1898’s pivotal events. At just $19 per person, this 75-minute guided walk visits homes of key figures, sites of rallies, and attack locations. The 5/5 review from five participants speaks to its powerful storytelling and importance in understanding the city’s racial and political transformation.
This tour delves into the circumstances surrounding the coup and massacre, explaining how it led to Jim Crow policies and lasting racial divides. It’s a compelling choice for history enthusiasts, students, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Wilmington’s roots. The tour’s strength lies in its ability to connect past and present, making it clear why this dark chapter remains vital. A potential downside is that the intense subject matter may be emotionally heavy for some. Bottom line: a meaningful, eye-opening experience that sheds light on Wilmington’s turbulent history.
4. Wilmington: Eagles Island Cruise–Eco-History Cruise
At number 4, the Wilmington: Eagles Island Cruise offers a 50-minute narrated journey for just $24 per person. This eco-historic cruise provides a gentle way to learn about the Cape Fear River’s wildlife and past. The boat glides smoothly past unspoiled nature, with views of the Battleship and remnants of rice plantations, plus tales of WWII Wilmington shipyards and current industry.
The two reviews reflect how relaxing and educational this cruise is, especially for nature lovers. It’s an excellent choice for families or anyone interested in ecology, with highlights like birdwatching and historical insights. The main drawback is its brevity—if you’re looking for a deep dive, you might want a longer tour. But for a quick, scenic escape into Wilmington’s natural and maritime landscape, this cruise hits the mark. Bottom line: a peaceful, informative ride perfect for those who appreciate nature and local history.
5. Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Tour
The Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Tour is a one-hour walk through the city’s well-preserved historic district, costing only $19. It’s led by a professional historian who shares compelling stories about Wilmington’s development from colonial times to today. With a 4.8 rating from four reviews, visitors praise the engaging narration and the well-chosen sites that bring Wilmington’s past vividly to life.
This tour is ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a snapshot of Wilmington’s architectural and cultural evolution. The guided walk makes it easy to absorb facts without feeling rushed, and the small group size ensures personal attention. A potential downside is the limited duration—if you’re eager for more, consider pairing it with other tours. Bottom line: a highly educational, walkable introduction to Wilmington’s historic heart.
6. Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour
For lovers of the spooky and mysterious, the Wraiths & Wicked Whispers Ghost Tour offers a one-hour walk through Wilmington’s haunted spots. Priced at $24 per person and rated 4.1/5 from 24 reviews, it takes you past landmarks like Thalian Hall, the Cotton Exchange, and the Riverwalk, where spirits and tragic tales linger. Guides weave chilling stories, creating an atmospheric experience.
This tour is perfect for those fascinated by paranormal tales or looking for a fun, eerie evening activity. The stories are well-crafted, and the haunted sites are genuinely atmospheric, especially at night. A potential drawback is the short duration, which may leave some wanting more ghostly encounters. Bottom line: a spirited way to explore Wilmington’s darker side, suitable for history fans and thrill-seekers alike.
7. True Crime Tour of Wilmington
If true crime stories fascinate you, the True Crime Tour of Wilmington delivers. In just an hour and costing $19, it highlights Wilmington’s infamous murders, from historic cases to modern crimes. With a 5/5 review from one participant, this tour really hits home for crime aficionados.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit sites linked to notorious murders, gaining insights into Wilmington’s darker, more violent side. This tour suits those interested in crime history or wanting a different perspective on the city. It’s compact but packs a punch, which makes it a good fit for a quick, impactful experience. Bottom line: an engaging, concise look at Wilmington’s shadowy crime stories.
$19 per person
8. Wilmington: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
For a lively combination of drinks and ghost stories, the Wilmington: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl is a fun 2-hour outing at $29 per person. Starting at Prost Biergarten, the tour visits historic pubs like Lula’s and Blue Post Billiards, where you’ll sip craft beers and hear tales of Wilmington’s haunted past. With a 4.6/5 rating from five reviews, it’s a hit for social travelers.
The highlight is the mix of paranormal stories and local spirits, making it great for groups or couples who enjoy nightlife with a spooky twist. The tour’s relaxed pace and interesting venues create a memorable night. The only caveat is that it’s less about history and more about entertainment, so it’s best for those looking for a fun, social experience. Bottom line: a spirited way to enjoy Wilmington’s haunted scene with a drink in hand.
9. 3.25-Hour Wilmington Airlie Gardens E-Bike Self-Guided Tour
The Airlie Gardens E-Bike Self-Guided Tour is perfect for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. For $70, you get four hours to explore Wilmington and its iconic botanical gardens, with guided e-bike navigation. This tour is especially suitable for a relaxed day outing or a romantic ride, taking you through scenic spots and lush landscapes that are hard to beat.
Riders appreciate the ease of electric assistance, allowing you to enjoy the sights without getting exhausted. You’ll see the gardens, the river, and some of Wilmington’s most beautiful natural scenery. The main limitation is the self-guided aspect—those seeking expert narration might prefer a guided tour. Bottom line: a peaceful, scenic ride that allows you to enjoy Wilmington at your own pace.
10. Wilmington, NC: A Tarot Reading Experience
For something a bit different, the Tarot Reading Experience offers a personal, mystical journey. At $111 per person, it provides a one-hour session with a professional tarot reader, exploring life themes through powerful cards. Although the rating is 1/5 from one review, the experience is designed to foster mindfulness, clarity, and intuition, often paired with calming tea.
This tour appeals to those curious about spiritual practices, tarot symbolism, or seeking personal insight. It’s more introspective than active, and may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer tangible sightseeing. But for a quiet, reflective experience that combines history with mindfulness, it’s a unique option. Bottom line: a contemplative, guided exploration into the symbolism and stories of tarot.
$111 per person
11. 5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Self-Guided Tour
Finally, the River to Sea E-Bike Self-Guided Tour offers a comprehensive, five-hour adventure covering Wilmington’s riverfront, downtown, and Wrightsville Beach. For $75, you’ll pedal along the historic on-and-off-road bikeway, enjoying views of the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean. This tour is excellent for those wanting an active, all-day exploration at their own pace.
It combines natural beauty with urban sights, making it ideal for a full-day outdoor activity. Riders praise the route’s scenic variety and the ease of maneuvering the e-bike. The main consideration is stamina—this is a longer tour best suited for fit, enthusiastic cyclists. Bottom line: a fantastic way to experience Wilmington’s diverse scenery over a leisurely, full-day ride.
$75 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Wilmington
When selecting your Wilmington tour, consider your interests and comfort level. If you love being on the water, the sailing Wilmington Waterfront Charter offers a memorable maritime experience. For active explorers, the E-bike tours and River to Sea bike are fantastic choices. History buffs and dark tourism fans will find rich stories in the Dark History tour and True Crime tour. For those craving a spooky night, the Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl combine scares with social fun.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Eco-History Cruise, Downtown Tour, or the Tarot Experience. Timing and weather are also key—outdoor tours are best in mild seasons, and booking early ensures availability, especially for the popular sailing and bike trips.
Final Thoughts
Wilmington’s diverse tour options mean there’s something for every traveler—whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or just a good story. For a relaxing day on the water, the Wilmington Waterfront Charter offers a unique perspective of the port city. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Dark History tour, which sheds light on Wilmington’s complex past. And if ghost stories are your thing, the Ghost Tour will keep you on the edge of your seat.
We recommend booking early, especially in high season, and choosing a tour that matches your interests and fitness level. With so many authentic experiences, Wilmington invites you to explore its coastal charm, intriguing stories, and lively streets in style—whatever your preference.