33 Cute Date Ideas in Wilmington, NC

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July 7, 2025

Wilmington, North Carolina, is a city full of charm, history, and breathtaking coastal views. Also, with a lot of date ideas for couples in Wilmington, NC. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous outing, a romantic dinner, or a peaceful escape into nature, Wilmington offers a variety of unique date ideas. Here are 33 cute date ideas that will be unforgettable ways to spend quality time with your significant other.

Fun Ideas for Couples in Wilmington NC

For couples who love exploring unique historic spots, Brooklyn Arts Center is a stunning downtown venue that perfectly blends charm and character for an unforgettable visit.

1. Walk Along the Wilmington Riverwalk-Date ideas Wilmington NC

Photo of a Riverwalk Pier with people walking and enjoying the restaurants and water view. Great date ideas Wilmington NC
Photo By: The Riverwalk

Stretching nearly two miles along the Cape Fear River, the Wilmington Riverwalk is a scenic spot for a romantic stroll. With waterfront restaurants, historic landmarks, and sunset views over the water, it’s a perfect setting for an intimate conversation or a spontaneous photoshoot.

Website: www.wilmingtonnc.gov
Address: 929 N. Front St. Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 341-3237

For a unique night out after your beach day, explore best hidden speakeasy Wilmington NC for an unforgettable Prohibition‑style experience.

2. Visit Airlie Gardens-Date Ideas Wilmington NC

Airlie Gardens with blooming tulips and lush greenery and an old oak tree in the background. The perfect date idea in Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Airlie Gardens

This 67-acre garden paradise is filled with blooming flowers, peaceful lakes, and the famous 400-year-old Airlie Oak Tree. Enjoy a slow walk, the butterfly house, or a quiet moment surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Website: airliegardens.org
Address: 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: (910) 798-7700
Email: airlieinfo@nhcgov.com

3. Sunset Cruise on the Cape Fear RiverDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Cape Fear River Cruise on the Port City. The boardwalk is in the background. A perfect date idea for Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Cape Fear River Cruise

Watch the sky turn pink and orange on a romantic Cape Fear River cruise, often with drinks and live music for an unforgettable evening.

Website: capefearriverboats.com
Address: 106 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 343-1611

4. Explore the Bellamy Mansion MuseumDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Bellamy Mansion with large white pillars surrounding the estate. Lush and manicured gardens for a perfect place for a date.
Photo By: Bellamy Mansion

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved antebellum home with guided tours showcasing grand architecture and Wilmington’s rich history.

Website: www.bellamymansion.org
Address: 503 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 251-3700
Email: info@bellamymansion.org

5. Watch a Show at Thalian Hall-Date Ideas Wilmington NC

Thalian Hall with old world theater style cinema for performances. Red velvet curtains and green stage lite up.
Photo By: Thalian Hall

Enjoy Broadway-style performances, comedy shows, or concerts at one of the oldest theaters in the country — an elegant night out full of entertainment.

Website: www.thalianhall.org
Address: 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 632-2285

After a fun date, make it extra special by dining at best restaurants in Wilmington for a culinary journey through the Port City..

6. Have a Picnic at Greenfield Lake ParkDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Greenfield Lake Park with sandy trail surrounded by lush greenery and trees. Perfect date idea Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Greenfield Lake Park

Spread out a blanket by Greenfield Lake, enjoy ducks and turtles nearby, or rent a kayak for a little extra adventure. Great for couples who want to relax and have a picnic and enjoy a leisurely day.

Website: www.visitnc.com
Address: 1739 Burnett Blvd, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 341-7852

7. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride DowntownDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Springbrook Farms horse drawn carriage in Wilmington. Perfect date idea for the old romantic.
Photo By: Springbrook Farms

Experience old-world romance with Springbrook Farms horse-drawn carriage rides through Wilmington’s charming historic district. Brings back memories of the past when romance was a carriage ride. This is just one date idea Wilmington NC for couples that love the romantic carriage rides in downtown.

Website: horsedrawntours.com
Address: 16 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 251-8889
Email: info@horsedrawntours.com

8. Visit the Cameron Art MuseumDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Cameron Art Museum a creative way to have a date with a modern twist.
Photo By: Cameron Art Museum

Explore rotating exhibitions from local and international artists at Wilmington’s premier art museum a creative and inspiring date idea. Who doesn’t like to have a creative date and explore the art world.

Website: www.cameronartmuseum.org
Address: 3201 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28412
Phone: (910) 395-5999
Email: info@cameronartmuseum.org

9. Wine Tasting at Noni Bacca Winery-Date Ideas Wilmington NC

Noni Bacca Winery with a bar and stools for a perfect date in Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Noni Bacca Winery

Savor award-winning wines at this cozy, locally owned winery perfect for comparing flavors and picking a bottle to take home. Nice to have a wonderful glass of wine and toast to romance.

Website: nbwinery.com
Address: 420 Eastwood Rd #108, Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: (910) 397-7617
Email: info@nbwinery.com

To wrap up the perfect evening, enjoy a toast at best bars in Wilmington for an unforgettable night.

10. Go on a Ghost TourDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Ghost Tour by Haunted Wilmington. What better way to hold your date when they are scared.
Photo By: Haunted Wilmington

Get spooked together on one of Wilmington’s famous ghost walks, exploring historic haunted streets under the moonlight.

Website: hauntedwilmington.com
Address: 8 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 794-1866

11. Spend a Day at Wrightsville BeachDate Ideas Wilmington NC

Wrightsville Beach coast with sandy coastline at sunset with blue green water. Very calm place to have date in Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Wrightsville Beach

Just a short drive from downtown, Wrightsville Beach is ideal for a relaxing beach day, surfing lesson, or a sunset walk along the shore.


12. Visit Fort Fisher State Historic Site

Fort Fisher explore the scenic beaches with rocky shoreline and beautiful blue water.
Photo By: Fort Fisher

Explore Civil War ruins and scenic beaches at Fort Fisher, where history and nature create a peaceful, romantic backdrop.


Website: historicsites.nc.gov
Address: 1610 Fort Fisher Blvd S, Kure Beach, NC 28449
Phone: (910) 251-7340
Email: fisher@ncdcr.gov

13. Enjoy Live Jazz at a Local Club

The Blind Elephant club with dark and moody room for a romantic quiet date.
Photo By: The Blind Elephant

Relax with cocktails and smooth jazz at The Blind Elephant, a cozy speakeasy-style bar with regular live music events.

Website: www.blindelephantspeakeasy.com
Address: 21 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 833-7175

14. Play Mini Golf

Add a playful twist to your date night at Jungle Rapids indoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf course.
Website: junglerapids.com
Address: 5320 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403
Phone: (910) 791-0666

15. Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour

See dolphins splashing through the waves with a dolphin cruise from Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours.

16. Visit the New Hanover County Arboretum

Hanover county Arboretum manicured bushes with red arbor along the path. Very calming and relaxing for a date ideas in Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Hanover County Arboretum

Walk through beautifully landscaped gardens, a koi pond, and seasonal blooms — perfect for a peaceful, nature-filled date.

17. See a Movie at The Pointe 14

Upgrade your movie night with luxury reclining seats and gourmet concessions at The Pointe 14 Cinema.

18. Rent a Tandem Bike and Ride Along the Beach

Pleasure Island Rentals tandem bike rides for two. Very nice to share a bike with a date along the beach.
Photo By: Pleasure Island Rentals

Rent a tandem bike from Bike Cycles and cruise through beachside paths, laughing and enjoying the breezy coastal scenery.

19. Try Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Stand up paddle boarding can be hard but SUP will help you learn to paddle without falling. Unless you fall in your dates arms.
Photo By: SUP

Rent paddleboards from Wrightsville SUP and test your balance while gliding across the beautiful, calm waters.

20. Have Brunch at a Cozy Café

Share a slow morning over Southern-inspired brunch favorites at Blue Surf Café, a local favorite known for fresh ingredients and cozy vibes.

21. Explore the Carolina Beach Boardwalk

NC Carolina Beach Boardwalk with carnival rides along the beach.
Photo By: NC Carolina Beach Boardwalk

Stroll the vibrant Carolina Beach Boardwalk with ocean views, arcade games, live music in the summer, and classic boardwalk eats like Britt’s Donut Shop. It’s a lively and casual date spot, especially fun in the warmer months.

22. Take a Private Sailboat Tour

Charter a private sailboat and cruise Wilmington’s beautiful coastal waters. Companies like Wrightsville Performance Sailing offer sunset sails that are unforgettable and super romantic.

23. Visit the Battleship North Carolina

NC Carolina Battleship. Very large battleship. A bold date idea Wilmington NC.
Photo By: USS North Carolina Battleship

Tour the historic USS North Carolina, a World War II battleship docked on the Cape Fear River. It’s a fascinating and educational date if you both love history.

24. 20 Orange Spa-Indulge in a Couples Spa Day

20 Orange Spa for a relaxing day with your date. To enjoy a massage.
Photo By: 20 Orange Spa

Relax and rejuvenate together with massages, facials, and aromatherapy at Coastal Massage & Spa, Wilmington’s premier day spa for couples.

25. Try Ice Skating at The Ice House

Hold hands and laugh as you glide across the ice at The Ice House, Wilmington’s indoor skating rink that’s fun year-round.

26. Take a Cooking Class Together-Demarco Family Kitchen

Sign up for a cooking class at The Seasoned Gourmet or Cape Fear Food & Wine Club and create a delicious meal side by side, a perfect mix of teamwork and fun.

If your date nights lead to popping the question, explore 10 incredible places to propose in Wilmington NC for the most romantic spots in the city.

27. Go Brewery Hopping-Wilmington Brewing Company

Wilmington Brewery Co has tables for lounging and listen to a local band.
Photo By: Wilmington Brewery Co

Discover Wilmington’s booming craft beer scene by visiting breweries like Wilmington Brewing Company and Flytrap Brewing, each with their own unique brews and chill atmospheres.

28. Kayak Through Masonboro Island Reserve

For nature lovers, rent kayaks and paddle to Masonboro Island Reserve. Explore untouched beaches, marshes, and spot coastal wildlife for a serene, adventurous date.

29. Share a Dessert at Kilwins

Treat yourselves to decadent ice cream, fudge, or caramel apples at Kilwins downtown. It’s a sweet and simple way to cap off a date.

30. Horseback Riding on the Beach-Desperado Horse Farm

Saddle up for a dreamy beach ride at nearby Carolina Beach with KBR Horseback Riding, offering rides along the shore at sunset.

31. Discover Wilmington’s Murals and Art

Wilmington NC large art sculptures for you to sit and enjoy with your date.
Photo By: Wilmington NC

Explore downtown Wilmington on foot, discovering colorful street art and murals perfect for snapping fun couple photos together.

32. Join a Sunset Beach Yoga Class-Salty Dog Yoga & Surf

Sunset beach yoga. Relax and breathe with your favorite date along the sandy beaches in Wilmington NC.
Photo By: Beach Yoga

Relax, breathe, and connect during a sunset beach yoga session at Wrightsville Beach with Salty Dog Yoga & Surf.

33. Have a Romantic Candlelit Dinner at Home

Sometimes the most intimate dates are at home. Order from a top Wilmington restaurant like RX Restaurant and Bar, light some candles, and enjoy a cozy night in.

If your getaway includes romance, explore 10 Incredible Places to Propose in Wilmington, NC to find the perfect spot to pop the question.

Meet Ben Adams: A Wilmington Wedding Photographer Who Tells Your Story

Ben Adams, the creative talent behind Storyteller Adams, is a devoted Wilmington wedding photographer who specializes in capturing authentic, heartfelt love stories. Blending artistry with genuine emotion, he focuses on candid moments, meaningful details, and natural interactions that make each wedding truly one of a kind. His photography style allows couples to relive their wedding day through images that feel vibrant, emotional, and timeless. From sunlit beach ceremonies to romantic garden vows or elegant ballroom receptions, Storyteller Adams is committed to preserving every cherished memory with creativity and care.

Website: www.storytelleradams.com
Email: hello@storytelleradams.com

When you are ready to chose the date for your wedding, Wilmington Wedding Photographers (Storyteller Adams) is the best choice for beautiful and authentic photos.

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