Cultural Treasures

Away from the riverfront in Wilmington, the rest of downtown and the city plus suburban areas and beach communities are treasures of culture, shopping, dining, recreation, attractions and education to be explored and enjoyed.

Scattered throughout the downtown area are numerous historic buildings and homes, some antebellum and some open for touring.

Not to be missed downtown are Thalian Hall on 3rd Street, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2008. Another must see for residents and visitors alike is the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science.

For the intrepid shopper, a virtual cornucopia of opportunities awaits you and your credit card. The two largest shopping centers are Independence Mall in mid city and Mayfaire Town Center on the east side. Many other smaller shopping centers and malls are located around the city - some trendy and upscale, some not, but all worth exploring.