Shopping In Southport

Southport has many delightful old Victorian-style homes, especially along the waterfront, and magnificent live oaks shade the streets throughout the town. The downtown locale is a mix of historical old buildings and attractions, lots of shops and restaurants and a delightful waterfront park overlooking the river and ship traffic heading upriver to Wilmington’s port.

Fortunately, development, both residential and commercial, within the town has been relatively controlled and tasteful. A number of the older buildings and homes along North Howe Street have been restored and converted into quaint shops and restaurants, and the new additions of commercial buildings and condos have been designed to fit into the scene.

Magical Christmas Shop

One of the most distinctive shops in Southport is the three-story home built in 1885 that now is the site of The Christmas House. In addition to ornaments, gifts, snowmen, Santas, and all things Yule, an old-fashioned candy store and pirates treasure room are there too. And be sure to visit the unusual flowering “tree” in the courtyard.

Just north of the center of town off North Howe Street you’ll find Franklin Square Park and the Franklin Square Gallery exhibiting art by local and area artists. With its ancient, beautiful and impressive 200-year-old oak trees shading the entire area, visiting the park is a calming trip back into history.