Wilmington Airport (ILM) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Wilmington International Airport quick facts

Wilmington International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Wilmington International Airport features a straightforward single-terminal design that travelers consistently praise for its ease of navigation. The terminal building is arranged in a linear configuration with a central atrium housing the security checkpoint, leading to two distinct concourses: the East Concourse and the West Concourse. This layout eliminates the confusion often associated with larger hub airports, and the compact nature means walking distances are remarkably short compared to national averages.

The entire terminal is connected post-security, meaning you can walk from the furthest gate on the East Concourse to the furthest gate on the West Concourse in approximately 5 to 7 minutes. There is no need for shuttles, underground trains, or moving walkways within the secure area. For travelers with mobility concerns, wheelchair assistance is available directly from the airline ticket counters upon request, and the level terrain makes self-navigation easy.

Navigating Wilmington International Airport Terminals

After passing through the central TSA security checkpoint, you emerge into a bright, open rotunda area with seating and a central concessions hub. From this central point, you simply turn left for the West Concourse or right for the East Concourse. All gates are clearly marked, and digital displays provide real-time flight information at every junction.

East Concourse (Gates 1-5)
The East Concourse primarily serves Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. This concourse recently underwent a modernization refresh and features the airport's newest amenities. Travelers will find the ILM Business Center here, a dedicated space with workstations and charging outlets ideal for catching up on emails before a flight. Dining options on this side include a full-service bar and a grab-and-go market featuring locally roasted coffee. Gate seating is equipped with integrated power outlets and USB ports at most seats. The concourse also houses the airport's primary family restroom and a nursing room for traveling parents.

West Concourse (Gates 6-9)
The West Concourse is home to American Airlines and Avelo Airlines operations. This is the busier side of the airport during the morning departure banks when American Airlines runs its schedule to Charlotte and Dallas. The concourse offers a selection of retail kiosks featuring North Carolina–made products and a sit-down restaurant overlooking the tarmac. The gate areas are spacious, and the large floor-to-ceiling windows provide excellent natural light and views of arriving and departing aircraft. A children's play area is located near Gate 8, featuring soft-play equipment themed around the Cape Fear coast.

Transportation to and from Wilmington International Airport

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport is a stress-free experience thanks to the airport's location just four miles north of downtown Wilmington. Unlike major metropolitan airports, road congestion is minimal, and the drive from the central business district rarely exceeds 15 minutes even during peak hours. The airport is directly accessible via North 23rd Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, with clear signage guiding drivers from Interstate 40.

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport by Car

Driving is the most popular method of reaching the airport, and the road network around the terminal is currently undergoing a major improvement project. A new parking garage and reconfigured curbfront are part of a $134 million capital investment, which has straightened the drop-off lanes and improved traffic flow significantly. Travelers should note that while construction is ongoing in some peripheral areas, the terminal access roads are fully operational and well-marked.

Terminal Parking Rates (per 24-hour period)
The airport offers three primary parking options tailored to different trip lengths and budgets.

• Hourly Deck (Short-Term): Located directly adjacent to the terminal on the second and third levels of the new parking garage. This is the best option for picking up or dropping off passengers or for trips under 24 hours. Rate: $2 per hour, up to a daily maximum of $18.
• Daily Garage (Long-Term): Situated on the upper floors of the parking structure, just a 3-minute covered walk to the terminal entrance. Ideal for business travelers and weekend getaways. Rate: $15 per day.
• Economy Lot (Budget): Located a short distance from the terminal near the airport entrance on Airport Boulevard. This is the most cost-effective choice for extended vacations. A complimentary shuttle runs continuously between the lot and the terminal every 10-15 minutes. Rate: $10 per day.

Private Parking and Park & Fly
Several private lots operate just outside the airport perimeter along Airport Boulevard. These facilities often offer slightly lower rates than the on-site economy lot, usually around $8-$9 per day, and include valet services or covered parking options. Additionally, nearby hotels like the Holiday Inn Express and Fairfield Inn offer Park, Stay, and Fly packages that include up to 14 days of free parking with a one-night stay, making them an excellent value for early morning departures.

Cell Phone Waiting Lot
A dedicated Cell Phone Lot is located at 1825 Airport Boulevard, immediately to the right as you enter the airport property. Drivers may wait free of charge for up to 60 minutes while arriving passengers collect luggage. The lot features a flight information display board showing real-time arrival status. Curbside waiting is strictly prohibited, and unattended vehicles will be ticketed and towed. The active loading zone at the terminal curb allows only 3 minutes for immediate pick-up of passengers who are already present at the curb.

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare services are fully authorized to operate at Wilmington International Airport. Both Uber and Lyft maintain a strong presence in the Wilmington area, with vehicles typically arriving within 3 to 5 minutes of a request.

The designated pickup area for all app-based rides is located on the lower level of the rental car facility, which is directly across from the terminal baggage claim area. Passengers should follow the overhead signage for "Ground Transportation" and cross the covered walkway to the Rideshare Pickup Zone. Rides cannot be requested until you are physically in this zone to ensure efficient curbside flow.

Estimated fares to downtown Wilmington (approximately 4 miles) range from $12 to $18 for a standard UberX or Lyft. Fares to Wrightsville Beach are typically $22 to $28. Taxis are also available at the commercial curb directly outside baggage claim. The base fare for a taxi is $6.50, with an additional $2.20 per mile. A trip to the Historic District generally costs around $17.50 before tip.

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport by Public Transportation

Public transit in Wilmington is operated by Wave Transit. While there is no direct heavy rail or metro service to the airport, the Route 207 bus provides scheduled service connecting the airport terminal to the Forden Station transfer hub, where connections can be made to the rest of the city bus network.

Bus service operates Monday through Friday with limited Saturday service. There is no Sunday bus service. The bus stop is located on the lower level of the terminal near the commercial vehicle curb. Due to the limited frequency of this route, most travelers find rideshare or rental car options to be significantly more time-efficient for accessing the beaches or historic downtown.

Key Amenities at Wilmington International Airport

ATMs

ATMs are conveniently located both before and after the security checkpoint. A Wells Fargo ATM is situated in the pre-security ticketing lobby near the American Airlines counter. A First Bank ATM is located post-security in the central concessions plaza, providing access to cash for all major networks.

Lost and Found

The Lost and Found department is managed by the Airport Operations Center. If you have left an item on an aircraft, you must contact the respective airline directly. For items misplaced in the terminal, parking lots, or security checkpoints, you can file a claim at the Airport Administration Office located on the second floor of the terminal, or call +1 (910) 341-4125. Items are held for 30 days before being donated to local charities.

Luggage Services

Luggage carts are available for rent in the baggage claim area and near the parking garage elevators. The cost is $5 per cart, payable by credit card or cash. Currently, the airport does not offer luggage storage or wrapping services due to security regulations, so plan to keep your bags with you at all times until check-in.

Pets

Traveling with pets is common at Wilmington International Airport. The airport features two designated pet relief areas. The outdoor area is located pre-security in the landscaped median just outside baggage claim (look for the "Pet Patch" sign). An indoor service animal relief area is located post-security near Gate 7. Pets must remain in their carriers at all times except when using these designated areas.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities available at Wilmington International Airport, including within any of the airline lounges. The airport does not currently house a USO lounge or a pay-per-use Minute Suites location with shower amenities.

Currency Exchange

Wilmington International Airport does not offer currency exchange services. Given the airport's focus on domestic flights, travelers arriving from international destinations typically connect through larger hubs like Charlotte or Atlanta where currency exchange is readily available. Local banks in downtown Wilmington are the best option for currency needs upon arrival.

Smoking Area

Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal on the curbfront, at least 50 feet from any entrance door. There are no smoking lounges available post-security. Passengers who exit the terminal to smoke must pass through TSA screening again to re-enter.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal at Wilmington International Airport is designed to reflect the coastal charm of the Cape Fear region. High ceilings with exposed beams evoke a coastal architectural style, and large windows flood the space with natural light. The post-security rotunda features a permanent art installation celebrating the ecology of the nearby Cape Fear River. Seating throughout the concourses is modern, with more than 70% of seats featuring integrated power outlets and USB charging ports.

WiFi

Complimentary high-speed WiFi is available throughout Wilmington International Airport. To connect, select the network named "FlyILM-Free-WiFi" from your device settings. No password is required, and the connection is supported by a brief sponsored video or advertisement page before access is granted. Speed tests typically show download speeds of 25-50 Mbps, sufficient for streaming video and video conferencing. Dedicated charging stations with multiple outlets and wireless charging pads are located in the central seating area and at each gate hold room.

Other Amenities

• Information Desk: Staffed by volunteer "Ambassadors" from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, located in the central baggage claim area. They provide maps, hotel information, and local attraction advice.
• Nursing Room: A private, lockable Mamava pod is located on the East Concourse for nursing mothers. It includes seating, a fold-down table, and USB outlets.
• Meditation Room: A quiet room is available on the second floor of the pre-security atrium for reflection or prayer. It is non-denominational and open to all.

Airport Lounges at Wilmington International Airport

As a smaller regional airport, Wilmington International Airport does not feature the extensive network of lounges found at major international hubs. However, there is one dedicated lounge space available for premium passengers. Additionally, American Express cardholders and Priority Pass members should be aware of specific local benefits that substitute for traditional lounge access.

Airline Lounges at Wilmington International Airport

Admirals Club / Delta Sky Club
Currently, Wilmington International Airport does not have a branded Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, or United Club. The terminal's compact size and short connection times make a traditional full-service lounge less necessary for most travelers.

The ILM Escape Lounge
Operated independently by the airport authority, this is a quiet, shared-use lounge located post-security near the central rotunda on the second floor (take the elevator near Gate 5).
Standout Features: This 1,200-square-foot space offers complimentary snacks (chips, granola bars, fruit), soft drinks, coffee, and a selection of North Carolina craft beers and wines available for purchase. The space features leather armchairs, work counters, and a panoramic view of the airfield.
Access: Day passes are available for $35 per person at the door. Passengers flying in First Class on American Airlines or Delta Air Lines receive complimentary access. Active-duty military personnel also receive free access with valid ID.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

There are no American Express Centurion Lounges or Capital One Lounges at Wilmington International Airport. Travelers with The Platinum Card from American Express or the Capital One Venture X card should utilize their Priority Pass benefits at the participating restaurant venue detailed below.

Priority Pass Lounges at Wilmington International Airport

Priority Pass members (including those with Chase Sapphire Reserve) do not have access to a traditional lounge space. Instead, Priority Pass offers a dining credit at The Flytrap Brewing Kitchen located post-security in the central concessions hub.
Members receive a $28 credit per person (up to two guests) applicable toward any food and beverage purchase. This is a popular benefit that effectively provides a free meal or drinks before a flight. Note that American Express Platinum cardholders are not eligible for this specific restaurant credit due to AmEx policy restrictions on Priority Pass restaurant benefits.

Other Airports in the Region

While Wilmington International Airport is the primary gateway for southeastern North Carolina, travelers in the region may also consider alternative airports depending on their final destination or flight availability.

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
Distance to Wilmington: 75 miles south (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes by car via US-17).
Best for: Travelers staying in Brunswick County beaches like Ocean Isle or Sunset Beach. MYR offers a wider selection of low-cost carriers including Spirit and Southwest Airlines, often resulting in cheaper nonstop options from the Northeast and Midwest.
Unique Advantages: Significantly more flight options to a broader range of cities; however, traffic on US-17 can be congested during peak summer tourist season.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Distance to Wilmington: 140 miles northwest (approx. 2 hours 15 minutes by car via I-40).
Best for: International flights or travelers seeking nonstop service to the West Coast or Europe. RDU is a major hub with Delta and offers significant American Airlines operations.
Unique Advantages: Two terminals with extensive lounge options (Delta Sky Club, Centurion Lounge). The drive is a straight shot on I-40, making it a reliable alternative if Wilmington International Airport flights are booked or priced high.

Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ)
Distance to Wilmington: 55 miles north (approx. 1 hour drive via US-17 and NC-111).
Best for: Travelers visiting Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, or the northern beaches of Topsail Island.
Unique Advantages: Extremely small and easy to navigate, with parking just steps from the terminal. However, flight options are limited primarily to American Eagle and Delta Connection to Charlotte and Atlanta.

Wilmington International Airport Overview

Wilmington International Airport is a public-use airport located in New Hanover County, North Carolina. Originally constructed during World War II as a military airfield, the facility transitioned to civilian use and has since grown into the fifth-busiest airport in North Carolina. Despite the "International" designation in its official name, the airport currently does not offer regularly scheduled international passenger flights; the title reflects its capacity for customs processing for private and cargo aircraft.

The airport is situated approximately 4 miles north of Wilmington's historic downtown district and just 6 miles from the popular beaches of Wrightsville Beach. This proximity to both business centers and vacation destinations makes it a vital transportation hub for the Cape Fear Coast region. The airport serves a catchment area that extends into northern South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach overflow traffic.

Wilmington International Airport is classified as a non-hub primary commercial service airport. It is owned by New Hanover County and operated by the New Hanover County Airport Authority. The airport covers an area of 1,800 acres and has two active runways capable of handling aircraft up to the Boeing 757 size. Annual passenger traffic has surged in recent years, surpassing 1.3 million passengers annually, driven by population growth in the region and expanded service from Avelo Airlines and American Airlines.

The facility operates a single passenger terminal with two concourses and a total of 9 gates. Major capital improvements are underway as part of a $243 million capital plan, which includes a new parking garage, terminal expansion to add four additional gates, and airfield pavement reconstruction.

Wilmington International Airport Postal Code

Full Postal Code: 28405
City: Wilmington
State: North Carolina
Country: United States
Complete Mailing Address: Wilmington International Airport, 1740 Airport Boulevard, Wilmington, NC 28405

Duty Free and Shopping at Wilmington International Airport

Because Wilmington International Airport does not have regularly scheduled nonstop international commercial flights, there is no duty-free shopping available at the airport. Duty-free stores are regulated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and are only permitted in airports with direct international departures. Passengers traveling internationally will clear customs and have access to duty-free shopping at their connecting hub airport (such as Charlotte Douglas International Airport or Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport).

Despite the lack of duty-free, the shopping and dining options at Wilmington International Airport punch above their weight class for a regional airport, with a strong emphasis on local North Carolina brands.

• Port City Java: A Wilmington-based coffee chain offering espresso drinks, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. Located pre-security and post-security in the central rotunda.
• The Flytrap Brewing Kitchen: A sit-down restaurant featuring local craft beer from Wilmington's popular Flytrap Brewing. Menu includes burgers, Carolina pulled pork sandwiches, and fresh salads.
• Cape Fear Marketplace: A newsstand and gift shop carrying a wide selection of local souvenirs, including Cape Fear peanuts, locally roasted coffee beans, beach reads by North Carolina authors, and apparel.
• ILM Tech Essentials: Located on the East Concourse, this kiosk offers travel electronics, headphones, chargers, and neck pillows.

Shopping Tip: While the airport has excellent souvenirs, the best local art and gifts are found in the Historic District downtown at the Cotton Exchange or at shops near Wrightsville Beach. The airport is best for grabbing that last-minute bag of Moravian cookies or a North Carolina magnet you forgot to pick up.

Security Wait Times Wilmington International Airport

One of the greatest advantages of flying from a regional airport like Wilmington International Airport is the expedited security process. The TSA checkpoint is centrally located and features up to three screening lanes during peak periods. Wait times are consistently lower than national averages.

On a standard weekday, passengers can expect to move from the curb to their gate in under 15 minutes. However, the airport experiences significant peaks that warrant additional planning. The morning rush between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM sees the longest lines as multiple flights to Charlotte, Atlanta, and Dallas depart within a short window. Similarly, Sunday afternoons and the period around major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas) can see waits extend to 25-30 minutes.

TSA PreCheck is available and operates during all hours the checkpoint is open. The dedicated PreCheck lane bypasses the standard queue and does not require the removal of shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets. CLEAR is not currently available at Wilmington International Airport.

Wilmington International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The airport has recently streamlined its curbfront operations with the completion of Phase 2 of the terminal roadway project. The road is now a straightened, multi-lane boulevard with clear separation between commercial vehicles and private cars.

• Departures Drop-Off: Located on the upper-level curbfront directly outside the airline ticketing lobby. The speed limit is 15 mph. Active unloading only; vehicles may not be left unattended, and the maximum wait time is strictly 3 minutes.
• Arrivals Pick-Up: Located on the lower-level curbfront outside baggage claim. This area is for immediate loading of passengers who have already retrieved their bags and are waiting at the curb.
• Cell Phone Lot: Located at 1825 Airport Boulevard. Free waiting for up to 1 hour. The lot is equipped with a flight status monitor so you can wait comfortably in your car until your party has deplaned and collected luggage.
• Commercial Vehicle Zone: Taxis, hotel shuttles, and limousines stage on the outer commercial curb of the lower level. Rideshare pickup (Uber/Lyft) is located exclusively in the ground transportation area across from the terminal.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Wilmington International Airport

Wilmington International Airport is served by four major carriers offering nonstop access to key hubs across the eastern United States. The airport does not currently have nonstop service to the West Coast or international destinations; however, connections through hub airports are frequent and efficient.

• American Airlines: Operates the most capacity out of the airport with up to 8 daily flights to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and 3 daily flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Seasonal Saturday service to Washington Reagan (DCA) and Philadelphia (PHL) is available in summer.
• Delta Air Lines: Provides up to 7 daily flights to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). During peak season, Delta adds a second frequency to LaGuardia (LGA).
• United Airlines: Offers up to 3 daily flights to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Seasonal service to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) is available.
• Avelo Airlines: The low-cost carrier operates a base at the airport with nonstop flights to several Florida destinations and the Northeast, including Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Tampa (TPA), New Haven (HVN), and Wilmington, Delaware (ILG).

Getting to and from Wilmington International Airport

Ground transportation options are centralized in a single convenient location, making it easy to transition from air travel to your final destination.

Car Rental at Wilmington International Airport

Renting a car is highly recommended for visitors to the Wilmington area. While the historic downtown is walkable, the region's main attractions—Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Airlie Gardens—are spread out and best accessed with a personal vehicle. The Rental Car Center is located directly across from the terminal baggage claim, accessible via a covered pedestrian walkway on the first floor.

On-Site Rental Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty all maintain counters in the facility. A local luxury option, Baker Automotive Rentals, also operates on-site, offering premium vehicles including Mercedes-Benz sedans and SUVs, as well as passenger vans.

Popular vehicle types in this coastal region include SUVs for beach gear and convertibles for cruising down Market Street. Advance booking is essential during the summer months and for events like the North Carolina Azalea Festival, as fleets sell out quickly.

Wilmington International Airport Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available at the commercial curb on the lower level. No reservation is needed. The base fare is $6.50, plus $2.20 per mile. A ride to the Historic District Riverwalk will cost approximately $17.50. Most taxis accept both cash and major credit cards.

Private Car Services at Wilmington International Airport

For a more premium arrival experience, several local companies offer black car and limousine services. Port City Executive Limo and Cape Fear Transportation offer meet-and-greet services with the driver waiting in baggage claim with a name sign. These services charge flat rates (typically $45-$60 to Wrightsville Beach) and are ideal for wedding parties or business travelers heading directly to meetings.

Bus Services at Wilmington International Airport

Wave Transit Route 207 serves the airport on weekdays. The stop is located on the lower level. Service is limited to once per hour, and the route does not go directly to the beaches. Given the low frequency, this is not a practical option for most tourists.

Hotel Shuttles

Many nearby hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle service. Confirmed participating hotels include: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wilmington-University Center, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach, and Comfort Suites Wilmington near Downtown. Passengers should call the hotel directly upon landing to request a pickup at the commercial vehicle zone.

Parking at Wilmington International Airport

Parking at Wilmington International Airport is secure, well-lit, and competitively priced compared to larger airports in the state. The new parking garage has dramatically improved the parking experience by providing covered spaces steps from the terminal.

• Hourly Parking Garage: $2 per hour / $18 per day maximum. Best for stays under 4 hours.
• Daily Parking Garage: $15 per day. Covered, secure, and a 2-3 minute walk to TSA.
• Economy Lot: $10 per day. Surface lot with complimentary shuttle every 10-15 minutes.
• Electric Vehicle Charging: Complimentary Level 2 charging stations are available on Level 2 of the parking garage (4 spaces) and in the Economy Lot (2 spaces).

All lots accept cash and credit/debit cards at exit. Contactless payment via tap-to-pay is also available.

Places to explore near Wilmington International Airport

Wilmington International Airport's central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse attractions of the Cape Fear Coast.

• Historic Downtown Wilmington (4 miles / 10 min): Explore the Riverwalk, lined with boutiques and restaurants. Visit the Battleship North Carolina, a World War II-era vessel docked across the Cape Fear River.
• Wrightsville Beach (6 miles / 15 min): One of North Carolina's most popular barrier island beaches. Perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and dining at oceanfront restaurants like The Oceanic.
• Carolina Beach (16 miles / 25 min): A classic beach town featuring a vintage boardwalk, amusement rides, and the nearby Carolina Beach State Park, home to the Venus flytrap.
• Airlie Gardens (5 miles / 12 min): Stunning 67-acre public gardens featuring ancient oaks, seasonal blooms, and the historic Airlie Oak.
• Southport (35 miles / 45 min): A charming maritime town south of Wilmington known for its antique shops and as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Wilmington

Wilmington enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures, but the area is susceptible to hurricane activity from June through November.

• Spring (March - May): Highs 70-80°F (21-27°C). This is the prime season to visit. The Azalea Festival in April brings the city to life with color. Expect occasional rain showers.
• Summer (June - August): Highs 85-95°F (29-35°C). Hot and humid, but perfect for beach days. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. This is peak tourist season; book cars and hotels well in advance.
• Fall (September - November): Highs 70-80°F (21-27°C). A fantastic time to visit with lower humidity and fewer crowds. Hurricane risk is highest in September.
• Winter (December - February): Highs 55-60°F (13-16°C). Mild and quiet. Great for golfing and exploring museums without the lines. Snow is extremely rare.

Essential Travel Tips

• Arrival Time: Arrive 90 minutes before a domestic flight. Even with short security lines, this provides a buffer for parking and check-in during the morning rush.
• Flight Status: Always check your flight status on the airline's app before leaving for the airport. Weather in connecting hubs like Charlotte or Atlanta can cause ripple delays.
• Packing: Pack a light jacket even in summer; air conditioning in the terminal and on planes can be aggressive. Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential for exploring the area.
• Currency: Cards are accepted everywhere in Wilmington. You will not need cash unless you prefer to tip taxi drivers or valets in cash.
• Car Rental License: A valid driver's license from any U.S. state or an International Driving Permit (accompanied by a valid foreign license) is required to rent a car. Non-U.S. residents should check specific requirements with the rental company.
• Fuel Stations: If returning a rental car, the closest gas stations are located on North 23rd Street just south of the airport entrance (Exxon and Circle K). Fill up before returning to avoid premium refueling charges.

About the City

Wilmington is a vibrant port city where Southern charm meets coastal energy. With a population of approximately 120,000 in the city proper and over 400,000 in the metro area, it is one of the fastest-growing regions in North Carolina. History buffs know it as the site of the only successful coup d'état on American soil (the Wilmington Insurrection of 1898) and a major Confederate blockade-running port during the Civil War. Today, it is famously known as "Hollywood East" due to the massive EUE/Screen Gems Studios, which has hosted productions like "Dawson's Creek," "Iron Man 3," and "The Summer I Turned Pretty."

The local cuisine is defined by fresh seafood. No trip is complete without trying a bowl of creamy clam chowder, a platter of Calabash-style fried shrimp, or oysters harvested from the nearby Stump Sound. The craft beer scene is booming, with over a dozen breweries in the city limits.

Wilmington serves as an excellent base for exploring the entire Cape Fear Coast, offering a walkable historic district with a nightlife that rivals cities twice its size.

Start Your Journey at Wilmington International Airport

Whether you are arriving for a sun-soaked beach vacation, a business meeting, or a production shoot at the studio, Wilmington International Airport provides the most convenient and welcoming gateway to the Carolina coast. Avoid the stress of navigating massive hubs and start your trip the moment you step off the plane. With car rental counters just steps from baggage claim, you can be on the sand at Wrightsville Beach within 20 minutes of landing. Secure your vehicle in advance to ensure the best selection and rates, and get ready to explore all that Wilmington has to offer.