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ILM Layover Ideas Wilmington Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Wilmington Airport

When you find yourself with a long layover at Wilmington Airport (ILM), don't despair. There are plenty of enjoyable activities to do in the area, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys art and culture. Here are the top five layover ideas for Wilmington Airport.

1. Airlie Gardens

Start your layover adventure with a visit to the beautiful Airlie Gardens. This 67-acre garden is home to a variety of plant species, a stunning 467-year-old oak tree, and a butterfly house. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature's beauty.

2. Battleship North Carolina

If you're a history enthusiast, a visit to Battleship North Carolina is a must. This historic World War II battleship offers an immersive experience of life at sea during wartime. You can explore the ship's nine decks, crew's quarters, gun turrets, and much more.

3. Bellamy Mansion Museum & Gardens

Discover a piece of Southern history at the Bellamy Mansion Museum. This 19th-century mansion offers a glimpse into the past with its beautifully restored rooms and gardens. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the Bellamy family and the history of the mansion.

4. Cape Fear Museum

Continue your historical journey at the Cape Fear Museum. This museum features a variety of exhibits that reflect the history, science, and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear region. Highlights include a giant ground sloth skeleton and exhibits on the region's maritime history.

5. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

End your layover adventure with a visit to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. This aquarium offers a variety of exhibits featuring local marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. You can also participate in interactive exhibits and watch daily animal feedings.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through ILM Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of ILM's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Wilmington airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near ILM to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have 12 to 48 hours to spare during your layover at Wilmington Airport, there are a variety of attractions within reasonable proximity to the airport that you can explore. These attractions offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, providing you with a truly immersive experience of Wilmington.

1. Historic Downtown Wilmington

Take a stroll through Historic Downtown Wilmington, where you can admire beautiful 19th-century architecture, visit unique shops and restaurants, and explore a variety of historical sites. Don't miss the Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk along the Cape Fear River.

2. Wrightsville Beach

If you're a beach lover, head to Wrightsville Beach. This beautiful beach offers a variety of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can also relax on the sandy beach, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a scenic walk along the shoreline.

3. Poplar Grove Plantation

Visit Poplar Grove Plantation, one of the oldest peanut plantations in the country. Here, you can learn about the history of peanut farming, take a guided tour of the plantation house, and explore the beautiful gardens and grounds.

4. Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts

For culture enthusiasts, a visit to Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts is a must. This historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and films. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a must-see attraction.

5. Carolina Beach State Park

End your extended layover with a visit to Carolina Beach State Park. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. You can also explore the park's unique ecosystems, which include a maritime forest, sand dunes, and a Carolina bay.

Updated on: November 22, 2023