MEMORABLE MEETINGS START WITH THE CAROLINA COASTAL EXPERIENCE
There are many destinations for hosting meetings in the Carolinas but only one offers the quintessential Carolina Coastal Experience — Wilmington, NC and Island Beaches
Encounter an award-winning destination that offers the perfect combination of city and beach experiences. From the intuitive layout of our Convention District, with walkable access to shops, restaurants and vibrant nightlife, to memorable coastal activities just minutes away, Wilmington and Beaches checks every box and offers planners fresh possibilities.
Here, an iconic city’s historic charm and rich past blends seamlessly with modern design and new attractions. Groups can have urban and island experiences all in the span of a single event. Attendees and their families will be compelled to arrive early or stay late and turn an ordinary event into a transformative getaway that thrills the senses. It’s more than a meeting. It’s an authentic Carolina Coastal Experience teeming with passion, joy, culture and adventure.
CONVENTION DISTRICT CONNECTED BY
A SCENIC RIVERWALK
Wilmington and our island beaches is one of N.C.’s favorite vacation destinations and a natural to become your next favorite meetings destination.
Our multiuse Convention District is located riverfront and within Wilmington’s downtown River District, all connected by a nearly two-mile scenic Riverwalk that makes it easy for attendees to get around. We cater to small businesses, associations, corporations, family reunions or somewhere in between. From stateof-the-art wireless exhibit halls and elegant ballrooms to the irresistible charm of a historic home with soul stirring porch views as a special event venue option, our variety of venues is unmatched and always appealing.
For something a little more traditional but still far from the ordinary convention center, the sleek 107,000 square-foot Wilmington Convention Center maintains an intimate feel and is the only convention center on N.C.’s coast. Located downtown,
it offers sweeping riverfront views and plenty of natural light that helps bring the outdoors in. Adjacent to the convention center is the Port City Marina and event pier and Riverfront Park, all of which come together to create a campus-like environment with hotels, restaurants and retail nearby. Networking and socializing becomes a breeze when it takes place on or by the water.
Other downtown meeting facilities located riverfront include the Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center, in which the center retains the charm of its red brick railroad depot days while offering modern amenities. Nearby, the Hotel Ballast Tapestry Collection by Hilton offers 20,000 square-feet of meeting space, plus an indoor/outdoor restaurant. The fullservice Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront Hotel, located adjacent to the Wilmington Convention Center, provides convenient accommodations for visitors and events held at the convention center.
THE CAROLINA COASTAL EXPERIENCE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO HOST A MEMORABLE
MEETING OR EVENT –ALL IN ONE PLACE
Inspiring
• Creativity and energy around every corner and settings that redefine the meeting experience
• Burgeoning River District and award-winning riverfront abounding with vibrant nightlife and entertainment, local boutiques, cafés and art galleries
• Sea- and farm-to-table dining featuring local, fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients
• Unique off-site and open-air venues from a riverboat to a riverfront park or an event pier at a marina to an aquarium
Authentic
• Selected as one of “The South’s Best Cities” by the readers of Southern Living magazine, chosen as America’s Best Riverfront, and the Riverwalk was selected as one of the country’s best riverwalks in USA Today ’s 10Best Readers’ Choice awards
• Rich Southern culture and historic charm live alongside a downtown that offers all the modern amenities of a big city
• One of the largest National Register Historic Districts in the country
• History tours, craft beer excursions on the Wilmington Ale Trail, themed walking tours and more
• Coastal-themed festivals and signature events held throughout the year offer built-in entertainment
Refreshing
• Three island beaches located just minutes away
• Hit the water with lessons by the pros, on guided tours and excursions, kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing or surfing in Wrightsville Beach
• Find a laid-back beach vibe during a colorful family escape to free-spirited Carolina Beach for good times on a vintage boardwalk, at a state park and more
• Reconnect with nature and family on a beach guaranteed to evoke favorite childhood beach memories in Kure Beach
Active
• Paddle through waterways, lakes and estuaries on kayak or standup paddleboard
• Hike scenic trails in picturesque state parks, take in unique wildlife and breathtaking gardens
• Bike nature and river-to-sea trails
• Take a narrated river or island cruise in search of the perfect sunset
• Dance the night away to tunes with a view at a live concert at a waterfront amphitheater
• Only convention center on N.C.’s coast, eco-friendly and ideally suited for small- to medium-sized meetings
• Personalized service attention based on center’s intimate size
• Many groups max out their registration at meetings and events held here
• Hotels typically offer off-season savings November through March; Sunday arrivals and mid-week arrival and departure patterns are most affordable
• Downtown walkable location and Convention District make it less costly and more convenient for attendees to enjoy the city and off-site activities
• Good weather year-round and welcoming hospitality
NORTH CAROLINA’S MOST ACCESSIBLE COASTAL DESTINATION
Wilmington is located between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean in southeastern N.C., just minutes away from three island beaches. It’s convenient to get here whether traveling by car, plane or even boat, and easy to navigate once you arrive.
By Car:
The major east/west interstate transportation artery I-40 leads directly to Wilmington, which is also served by U.S. highways 17, 74/76, 117 and 421. The area also features convenient access via the state’s numerous interstate highways.
Distance In Miles
By Plane:
Wilmington International Airport (ILM) provides the area and southeastern N.C. with major commercial and general aviation services. 910.341.4333, flyilm.com
Carriers Include:
Non-Stop Destinations:
Akron-Canton (CAK)
Atlanta (ATL)
Baltimore-Washington (BWI) - seasonal
Boston (BOS) - seasonal
Boston/Manchester (MHT)
Charlotte (CLT)
Chicago (ORD) - seasonal
Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)
Denver (DEN) - seasonal
Detroit (DTW)
(IAD)
Lauderdale (FLL) Fort Myers (RSW) Hartford (BDL) Houston (HOU)
Long Island (ISP)
Miami (MIA) - seasonal Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) - seasonal
Nashville (BNA)
New Haven (HVN)
(LGA) Newark (EWR)
(MCO) Philadelphia (PHL)
(PVD) Rochester (ROC) Tampa (TPA) Washington DC (DCA) Wilmington DE (ILG) - seasonal
THE ONLY CONVENTION CENTER ON NORTH CAROLINA’S COAST
The maritime-themed Wilmington Convention Center offers meeting capabilities up to 2,000 people and a variety of spaces. Its surroundings lead to a positive frame of mind and productivity with access to water, fresh air, and wellness and networking activities offered during breaks. Multiple nearby hotels all located within walking distance and connected by nearly two miles of Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River make it easy for attendees to get around.
Other details:
• 30,000 square-foot Exhibit Hall
• Full A/V, sound systems, lighting controls, concessions and Internet
• 30-foot ceiling height
• Drive-in floor access suited for tractor trailers
• 5,784 square feet of additional meeting space with option to divide into 8 separate rooms
• 12,000 square-foot Grand Ballroom with option to divide into 6 separate rooms
• 12,000 square feet of outdoor space on the Event Lawn
• 15,000+ square-foot pre-function space
• Adjacent parking garage
• LEED® certification
• Wilmington International Airport (ILM) three miles away
Wilmington Convention Center
Event Lawn
Riverwalk
MEETINGS & CONVENTION HOTELS
From full-service hotels and resorts with waterfront views to brand name lodging perfect for overflow, the area has easy access to three beach towns (Carolina, Kure and Wrightsville) and is home to more than 8,000 hotel guest rooms and suites. Wilmington and our island beaches offer meeting facilities including oceanfront resorts (with up to 9,000 square feet), riverfront hotels (with up to 20,000 square feet) and Wilmington area properties (with up to 5,300 square feet). Convention District properties include six hotels with more than 1,000 committable rooms including three located riverfront and near or adjacent to the Wilmington Convention Center.
Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront Hotel Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
Best Western Plus Coastline Inn
Hotel Ballast Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Convention District Meeting Hotels
Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center
501 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 910.377.7600 | aloftwilmingtonnc.com
Location: Next to the Convention Center
125
Guest Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Blending historic charm with modern service and amenities, the Aloft Wilmington at Coastline Center offers 125 rooms and suites all located within easy walking distance of the Wilmington Convention Center and connected by the scenic Riverwalk. Amenities include a fullservice restaurant, ground level bar, rooftop bistro, specialty coffee and pastry experience, meeting rooms, banquet rooms, guest services, outdoor terraces, a fitness center and service kitchen, as well as a 7,300-square-foot ballroom and a pet-friendly “Front Yard” outdoor space.
Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront Hotel
9 Estell Lee Place, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 910.765.1131 | hilton.com/en/hotels/ilmcces-embassysuites-wilmington-riverfront/ 186
Guest Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Offering flexible riverfront event space for conferences, board meetings, receptions and more, the Embassy Suites Wilmington Riverfront Hotel, conveniently located on the Riverwalk, provides unsurpassed event and catering services. With 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space and an on-site restaurant and rooftop bar, the venue’s modern architecture paired with contemporary furnishings and unparalleled sunset views makes a spectacular setting for your next event.
Convention District Meeting Hotels
Hotel Ballast Tapestry Collection by Hilton
301 North Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 | 910.763.5900 | hotelballast.com
Location: 6 walkable minutes from the Convention Center
Guest Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Elevate your meetings and events at the Hotel Ballast Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Located on the pedestrianfriendly Riverwalk, the hotel features 20,000 square feet of adaptable meeting space and full-service amenities including an on-site restaurant and bar, a riverfront pool deck and lounge and more.
Area Meeting Hotels
Golf & Resort
Location: 10 miles from Downtown
Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Step back in time and discover the elegance and historic charm that distinguish the unique suite accommodations at Beau Rivage Golf & Resort. The majestic clubhouse showcases a spectacular setting and offers more than 4,000 square feet of event space. The facility also features full-service amenities including an on-site bar and grill and more.
Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront
Property Description: At the Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront, attendees can retreat to their oceanfront rooms during conference breaks and enjoy the views of Carolina Beach from private balconies. The ballroom is equipped with everything groups need for conferences, including an adjacent space for exhibitors, and the facility features an on-site restaurant and more amenities. Adjacent to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and centrally located just two blocks from the Marina, conference attendees can find plenty to do nearby.
Hotel LELA Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
5001-B Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28405 | 910.202.8494 |
Location: 4 miles from Downtown Wilmington
Guest Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Discover the perfect blend of boutique charm and professional functionality at the new Hotel LELA. Conveniently located just minutes from the airport and downtown, the property offers a fresh, modern backdrop for gatherings of all kinds. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, executive board meeting, elegant banquet or networking mixer, Hotel LELA delivers with versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, including a sunlit banquet room, open-air pergola and private dining at Paloma’s, our on-site restaurant and bar.
Meeting Room Square Feet Theater Classroom Banquet 8x10 Booths
Area Meeting Hotels
Shell Island Resort
2700 N Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480 |
Location: 12 miles from Downtown Wilmington
155
Guest Rooms & Suites
Property Description: Situated waterfront and on the northern tip of Wrightsville Beach, Shell Island is the only all-suite hotel on the island and offers up to 6,000 square feet of indoor event space. This oceanfront resort is an ideal venue for business meetings and events and features Wrightsville Beach’s only oceanfront ballroom, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
Trailborn Surf & Sound
Location: 10 miles from Downtown Wilmington
Property Description: Wrightsville Beach’s Trailborn Surf to Sound resort is the perfect playground to plan, learn and achieve. With more than 7,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, award-winning catering and on-site restaurant, expansive oceanfront event lawns and adjacent classic beach cottage, which features 13 bedrooms and generous common areas, the Trailborn offers a unique and memorable experience with a focus on personalized service. A full complement of watersports and
are
on site.
|
ADDITIONAL HOTELS WITH MEETING SPACE & OVERFLOW ROOMS
Wilmington and our island beaches offer a variety of accommodations and settings for your meeting attendees and guests. Choose from facilities and guest rooms with a waterfront view and name-brand properties on main streets close to the action, and everything else available from downtown to midtown. The hotels listed here are just a sampling of our additional accommodations with meeting space and lodging perfect for overflow. For a complete hotel list, visit NCCoastalMeetings.com.
UNIQUE OFF-SITE MEETING, EVENT & OUTDOOR VENUES
Venues like Riverfront Park, Civil War-era historic homes, breweries, an event pier, saltwater aquarium, the largest and most technologically advanced performance center in Eastern North Carolina and more provide unexpected choices both indoors and outdoors for meeting and event attendees.
Port City Marina Event Pier
The Wilson Center
Bellamy Mansion Museum
Union Station
Cape Fear Riverboats
910.399.1709 | 128southevents.com
300 Airlie Road, Wilmington, NC 28403
910.798.7700 | airliegardens.org
| bakery105.com
Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 910.251.3700 | bellamymansion.org
Cape Fear Riverboats
101 S Water Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
910.343.1611 | capefearriverboats.com/ private-charters
Union Station Conference
502 N Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
910.362.7488 | cfcc.edu/rent-event-space
Ironclad Brewery
115 N Second Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
910.769.0290 | ironcladbrewery.com
10 Cowan Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
910.343.3614 | dave.pugh@wilmingtonnc.gov
| wilsoncentertickets.com/rentals
910.962.3811 | uncw.edu/campuslife/services/ conferenceservices.html
Carolina Beach
LET US HELP YOU PLAN THE PERFECT MEETING
The Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) services staff will help you plan the perfect meeting and find the best places for everything from meeting, eating, and sleeping to plugging in, working out and logging on.
Here’s just some of the assistance we provide:
Pre-Convention Planning
• Information regarding meeting hotels, off-site event facilities, exhibit space, attractions, recreation and entertainment
• Prepare a formal bid proposal including assistance in securing competitive guest room rates and arrangements for site inspections
• Assist with presentations and providing marketing assets to aid planners in presenting our proposal to board or site selection committee
Program Assistance
• Assist in locating resources regarding local caterers, florists, photographers, office equipment, promotional materials, souvenir ideas, security, tradeshow and exhibit needs, speakers, musicians, entertainers and off-site activities
• Provide information for planning spouse programs, children’s activities and tours. Step-on guides are available for a fee.
• Arrange a welcome address or letter from area dignitaries
• Develop a customized online meetings landing page for groups of 250 people or more featuring destination and travel information, pre- and post-vacation ideas, and dining options
Destination Collateral, Videos and Virtual Tours
• Complimentary Visitors Guides and Guide and Attraction Maps for registration are available for your convention or event attendees based on hotel room usage. Additional quantities are available for a nominal fee.
• Delegate video to encourage meeting registration and attendance
• SkyNav™ 3D Interactive Virtual Tour
Registration Assistance
• Complimentary registration and visitor information assistance is available. The CVB will supply, free of charge, one registrar for four consecutive hours based on a minimum of 50 room nights. Thereafter, there will be a charge per hour per person
SkyNav™ Virtual Tour
A MEETING LOCATION THAT FEELS LIKE A VACATION
Meeting in Wilmington means variety for everyone! Attendees can arrive early or stay late to enjoy a wide variety of things to see and do.
Pre- and Post-Vacation Ideas
• History buffs should head to Burgwin-Wright Museum House & Gardens, with its Colonial furnishings, 18thcentury kitchen, and an outstanding period garden
• Explore the Victorian-era gardens and architecture at the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design Arts
• Catch a concert featuring national acts at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Riverfront Park
• Ride along the brick-lined streets of downtown’s historic district in a Springbrook Farms Horse-Drawn Carriage
• Take a scenic cruise aboard Wilmington Water Tours or the Cape Fear Riverboats
• See TV and movie locations on a self-guided tour
• Tour the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, former home to almost 2,000 men; she earned 15 battle stars for her distinguished service during World War II
• Cape Fear Museum of History & Science features the rich history, science and cultures of N.C.’s southern coast
• The Wilson Center, Thalian Hall, and many other venues offer a variety of live theater and concert performance options
• Explore Airlie Gardens, encompassing 67 acres of beautiful Gilded Age gardens and lakes
• The kids will love Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, with a water park, go-carts, jungle golf, laser tag, climbing wall, arcade and more
• Explore Cameron Art Museum, a collection of fine art, design and crafts and site of the USCT Park
• Embrace simpler times at the vintage Carolina Beach Boardwalk, or hike through Carolina Beach State Park to see Venus flytraps in their indigenous environment
• Fort Fisher State Historic Site, site of the largest land/sea battle of the Civil War, and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, named one of the top aquariums in the country, are both located in Kure Beach
• Learn to paddleboard or surf at one of Wrightsville Beach’s many camps, or end the day with a chartered sunset cruise aboard Soundside’s Carolina Runner or Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours and Water Taxi
Carolina Beach
Kure Beach
Wrightsville Beach