“A river is water is its loveliest form, rivers have life and sound and movement and infinity of variation, rivers are veins of the earth through which the lifeblood returns to the heart.” -Roderick Haig-Brown
We know how wonderful the Wilmington Riverwalk is, and now so does the rest of the US! In January, USA Today compiled a list of the top 10 riverwalks and Wilmington was ranked #2! Personally we think it is the absolute best and there are so many reasons why!
You will not find a more relaxing and fun stretch of almost 2 miles of scenic views, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Following along the edge of the Cape Fear River in downtown Wilmington, the Riverwalk offers breathtaking views of the water, the river bridge and the Battleship North Carolina. Views of the Cape Fear River can’t be beat and make for the perfect backdrop for photos. Stretching from Nunn Street to the Isabella Holmes Bridge, the walkway is lined with an assortment of markets, unique boutiques and art galleries. The Riverwalk is home to outdoor cafes and narrated tours for your dining needs and entertainment. The wooden walkway is in walking distance of some of the city’s most popular tourist attractions like the Cotton Exchange and the 1914 Murchison Building. It is also the loading spot for several river boat cruises including Wilmington Water Tours and Cape Fear Riverboats, where you can relax onboard with a drink in hand and listen to the history of the area told by the boat’s captain. You can also catch a sunset cruise and enjoy live music while you sail along the water. There is a marina at the north end and even an outdoor concert venue!
The Riverwalk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is free of charge. Exactly why we think it can’t be beat! But, if you are interested in scoping out the competition, the full top ten list is as follows:
- Detroit International RiverWalk – Detroit
- Wilmington Riverwalk – Wilmington, North Carolina
- Schuylkill River Trail – Philadelphia
- San Antonio River Walk – San Antonio
- Smale Riverfront Park – Cincinnati
- Waterfront Park – Louisville
- Bricktown – Oklahoma City
- Mississippi Riverwalk – Dubuque, Iowa
- Chicago Riverwalk – Chicago
- Charles River Esplanade – Boston