brianmayroam in Wilmington, Delaware: 10 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Wilmington

Must-try foods in Wilmington

• Bobbie
  BobbieWidely hailed as 'The Greatest Sandwich in America,' this legendary creation originated at the original Capriotti’s on Union Street. It is a literal Thanksgiving feast on a sub roll, packed with slow-roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, handmade stuffing, and a touch of mayo.
• Serpe’s Tomato Pie
  Serpe’s Tomato PieA crown jewel of Wilmington’s Italian heritage, this Roman-style square pizza features a thick, airy crust topped with a rich, oregano-heavy tomato sauce and a light dusting of Pecorino Romano, served at room temperature from the historic Serpe & Sons Bakery.
• Steamed Blue Crabs with Old Bay
  Steamed Blue Crabs with Old BayWhile Maryland often takes the credit, Wilmington locals flock to institutions like Sansone’s Seafood Market or nearby crab shacks for fresh, locally caught blue crabs, traditionally steamed and heavily dusted with Old Bay or J.O. seasoning.
• Hotel DuPont Macaroons
  Hotel DuPont MacaroonsThese are not your typical French macarons; they are dense, chewy almond coconut confections with a secret recipe that has been guarded by the Hotel DuPont for over a century. They are a mandatory 'fancy' souvenir for any visitor to the downtown area.
• Slippery Dumplings
  Slippery DumplingsA heritage dish from the Lower Delaware region that remains a comfort food favorite in Wilmington. Unlike puffy suet dumplings, these are flat, square, noodle-like dough pieces simmered in a thick, savory chicken gravy.
• Grotto Pizza
  Grotto PizzaThough the subject of much local debate, no list is complete without Grotto’s. Recognizable by its signature swirl of sweet tomato sauce over a blend of cheeses, it is a nostalgic 'guilty pleasure' that defines the Delaware pizza experience.

Trip guide

• About Wilmington
  About WilmingtonWilmington, North Carolina, established in 1739 and named after the Earl of Wilmington, is a port city located on the Cape Fear River. The city is characterized by its National Register Historic District, which spans over 230 blocks and serves as a primary hub for 19th-century urban architecture in the state.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Wilmington, North Carolina, is during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October, when temperatures are pleasant (highs in the 70s and 80s) and humidity is low. While the peak summer season (June to August) offers the warmest water for beachgoers, it is often oppressively hot and crowded.
• Getting around
  Getting around Wilmington

  • Aviation (ILM or PHL) Fly directly into Wilmington International Airport (ILM) for North Carolina, or use Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) for Delaware, located just 25 minutes north with easy shuttle and rail connections.
  • Amtrak and Regional Rail Access Wilmington, DE via the Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station on the Northeast Corridor; for Wilmington, NC, take Amtrak to Wilson or Fayetteville and complete the trip via an Amtrak Thruway bus.
  • Local Transit (Wave or DART) Use Wave Transit in NC for city buses and a free downtown trolley; in DE, utilize DART First State's extensive bus network and the SEPTA regional rail for travel between Wilmington, Newark, and Philadelphia.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Utilize the DART First State bus system or the Riverfront Shuttle for affordable transportation throughout the city.
  • Walk with awareness and stick to well-lit areas at night, particularly in the downtown business district.
  • Acknowledge locals with a brief nod or polite greeting to follow the community's friendly social etiquette.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Wilmington

  • World Cup 2026 Preparations: Wilmington is serving as a major hub for FIFA World Cup fans.
  • The Cove Riverwalk Expansion: The viral 'floating villa' hotel on the Cape Fear River is launching a major expansion phase in early 2026.
• Visit Wilmington & Beaches↗
  Visit Wilmington & BeachesThe official travel guide for Wilmington, North Carolina, and its island beaches, managed by the Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau.