As February is the month of love thanks to Valentine’s Day, it seems fitting to share a destination that you will fall in love with! This spot is a little further, so take advantage of the distance and make it a weekend getaway this month.
Wilmington offers visitors a little bit of everything, from delicious dining options to unforgettable waterfront views. Every February, the annual North Carolina Jazz Festival is held in Wilmington, adding to the city’s southern charm. So, whether you plan to have a romantic getaway or want a unique family weekend, Wilmington is the place to go this month!
A One-of-a-Kind Waterfront City
If you’ve ever strolled along the waterfront in Wilmington, you won’t be surprised it was voted America’s Best Riverfront!
Wilmington River District and Island Beaches share the uniqueness of this area on their website. “From the River District and Riverwalk that winds around the storied Cape Fear River to three colorful island beaches, there’s something about the water here in Wilmington, NC and our beach towns – Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville Beach – that speaks, surrounds and transforms visitors. As North Carolina’s most accessible coastal destination via interstates and an international airport, the area’s location, natural beauty, culture and history all charm visitors and residents alike, making it the ideal place to get away for a vacation or weekend.”
It’s quite literally a straight shot from Winston-Salem to Wilmington as I-40 leads right into the city. Although, depending on where you are located in Forsyth County, the alternate route of I-74 & US-74 might be faster.
Top 5 Things to Do In Wilmington
When you visit Wilmington there are so many things to do that it’s hard to keep track. However, below are five must-do activities while you are there.
- Battleship North Carolina – This World War II era battleship combines learning and fun as you get to see how sailors lived firsthand.
- Airlie Gardens – Every point here is gorgeous with so many great photo opportunities. Plus, many films and shows, like 28 Days and Dawson’s Creek, were shot here.
- Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach and North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher – This is a three-for-one-spot as you can see the historic aspects of the fort, enjoy the beach and see all the cool animals at the aquarium.
- Museums – You won’t want to miss these four great destinations: Cameron Art Museum, Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, Wilmington Railroad Museum and Children’s Museum of Wilmington.
- Boat Tour – Finally, whether you pick a sunset or beach tour, maybe even a kayak tour, you’ll want to get a tour on the water when you visit the Wilmington area!
Why Visit in February?
You can’t go wrong visiting Wilmington any time of year, however, February is a great time for a couple of reasons. First, it’s typically warmer than here in the Triad! Next, you don’t want to miss the annual North Carolina Jazz Festival.
The North Carolina Jazz Festival is the biggest traditional jazz festival in the southeast and is celebrating 45 years this year! It includes three nights of jazz music from Thursday, February 6th through Saturday, February 8th.
Plus, on Saturday, they host a patron jazz brunch. Everyone can enjoy music from the All-Star musicians. The last hour is extra special as any patron enjoying the brunch who is a musician can play alongside the All-Star musicians.
Whether you want to have a weekend getaway with your special someone or bring the family down for a post-holiday-season vacation, Wilmington is the place to go this February. Enjoy amazing jazz music and stunning waterfront views!
Details to Visit Wilmington & Attend NC Jazz Festival
Distance from Winston-Salem: Around three and a half hours
Learn more about Wilmington: wilmingtonandbeaches.com
Learn more about NC Jazz Festival: ncjazzfestival.org
Dates: NC Jazz Festival takes place Thursday, February 6th – Saturday, February 8th
Instagram: @wilmingtoNCoast
