Free Things to Do in Wilmington NC in 2026

The Outdoors (All Free, All the Time)

Walk the Riverwalk

The Wilmington Riverwalk is 1.75 miles along the Cape Fear River through downtown. Historical plaques, public art, benches, and views of the Battleship across the water. Best at sunset. Free, open 24 hours, and the single thing every visitor should do.

Hit the Beaches

Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach are all free to access. Parking costs money (especially at Wrightsville and Carolina Beach during season), but the sand and ocean are free. For a full breakdown, check our Guide to Wilmington's Beaches.

Greenfield Lake

Walk or jog the 4.7-mile trail around the lake under massive cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. The Greenfield Lake Amphitheater hosts free summer concerts too. There's also a playground for kids. One of the prettiest spots in town and completely free.

Long Leaf Park

Long Leaf Park has one of the best playgrounds in the area, a free disc golf course, trails, and tons of open space. Local families live here on weekends. Bring your own discs for the course.

Carolina Beach State Park

Free entry. Hike the Flytrap Trail to see Venus flytraps growing wild. Carolina Beach is one of only a few places on Earth where they grow natively. Short, easy trail that works for all ages.

Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden

Free public garden at 3800 Canterbury Rd with carnivorous plants native to the region. Quick stop, unique, and kids love it.

New Hanover County Arboretum

Free gardens at 6206 Oleander Dr with themed garden rooms, walking paths, and a Japanese garden. Quiet and peaceful. Good for a morning walk or a date that costs nothing.

History and Culture (Free or Close to It)

Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Fort Fisher is completely free. Walk the massive Civil War earthwork remains, visit the museum, and learn about one of the most important Confederate forts of the war. Takes about an hour. Near the aquarium and the Southport ferry.

Battleship Memorial Walkway

The Battleship North Carolina charges admission to board, but the memorial walkway outside is free and open to the public. Walk the path, read the plaques, and see the ship up close from the riverbank.

Downtown Walking Tour (Self-Guided)

Downtown Wilmington's historic district is packed with 200+ year-old architecture, historical markers, and stories on every block. Walk Market Street from the river to 5th Street and you'll pass the Bellamy Mansion, Burgwin-Wright House, Latimer House, and dozens of other landmarks. The buildings are free to look at. Tours cost extra if you want to go inside.

Oakdale Cemetery

Oakdale Cemetery dates to 1855 and is a peaceful place to walk among massive live oaks and historic monuments. Free and open daily.

Art and Galleries (Free)

Cameron Art Museum (Free First Saturdays)

Cameron Art Museum normally charges admission, but the first Saturday of every month is typically free (check their website to confirm). The sculpture courtyard is also free to wander anytime, even when galleries are ticketed. Worth visiting either way.

UNCW CAB Art Gallery

UNCW's gallery in the Cultural Arts Building is free and open to the public weekdays. Rotating exhibitions from students, faculty, and visiting artists.

Art in Bloom Gallery

Art in Bloom on Inspiration Drive is free to browse. Local and regional artists, rotating exhibitions.

New Elements Gallery

New Elements on North Front Street downtown features fine art and craft by local and regional artists. Free to browse Wednesday through Saturday.

First Friday Gallery Walk

On the first Friday of every month, downtown galleries open their doors for a free evening art walk. Live music, wine, and new exhibitions. Free and one of the best recurring events in Wilmington.