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Browsing the quaint shops and boutiques
of downtown Wilmington is a history lesson as well as a shopping experience.
Surrounded by the city's beautiful historic homes and museums, brick streets
and serene waterfront, the downtown area provides a relaxed and unique
shopping locale. Rare are the shoppers who aren't tempted to slow their
steps in this tranquil setting. Personal service by business owners and a
cozy, small-town atmosphere further add to the shopping experience.
Most of the stores concentrated along the streets of
downtown Wilmington are independently owned and reflect the interests and
tastes of their owners. You won't encounter rack after rack of the same
items. Here you'll find art galleries, antiques shops, fine clothing, funky
garb, beachwear, toys, gourmet items, music, wine, linens, glassware,
candies, fine and costume jewelry, collectibles, books, home furnishings,
scents, candles and more.
Part of the charm of this shopping district is its
compact size and pleasant walkability. Park your car on the street, in one
of several parking decks, or, if you're shopping at one of the retail/dining
centers, park at no cost in their lots. Downtown is like an open-air mall
with an astonishing selection of spots in which to pause and take in the
beautiful scenery. Coffee shops, delicatessens, pubs, ice cream parlors,
candy shops and full-service restaurants offer constant temptation to
shoppers. Many restaurants have outdoor seating right on the sidewalk, a
setup guaranteed to lure your weary feet to pause.
Downtown is anchored by two large centers, The Cotton
Exchange, a shopping/dining/office complex at the northern end of the
riverfront, and Chandler's Wharf, a retail and office center at the southern
end. The area between — Water Street, Front Street, Second and Third Streets
and their cross streets — includes several busy city blocks lined with
restaurants, galleries, banks, services and stores that offer a wide variety
of shopping possibilities. Antiques buffs, surrounded by the heady sense of
southern coastal history, will find it impossible to bypass downtown
Wilmington's pleasing variety of antiques stores. (See our section on
Antiques in this chapter.)
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Blackbeard's Bryde
J. W. Brooks Building, 18 S. Water St., Wilmington
(910) 815-0660
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The Cape Fear region's colorful pirate history
inspired the name for this intriguing boutique offering the latest and best
styles in women's clothing, along with unusual jewelry, including
one-of-a-kind pieces. Blackbeard's Bryde has fantastic candles, soaps,
incense and a gift line that will make you smile (or blush!). With prices
you'll love and the tag line "Clothing for a Creative Soul," this local
secret is worth discovering.
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Blowing In The Wind
The Cotton Exchange, 312 Nutt St.,
Wilmington
(910) 763-1730, (888) 691-8034
www.blowinginthewind.com |
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Blowing in the Wind has plenty of kite-flying
fun for everyone. As the area’s largest full-service kite shop, with
locations in downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach at 222 Causeway
Drive, (910) 509-9989, they carry a huge selection of colorful kites for
all ages and skill levels, from easy-to-fly single-line kites, delta
kites and box kites, to controllable stunt kites and big show kites.
Looking for a thrill? Try one of their Jet-Ski assisted kiteboarding
lessons (read all about this exciting sport in the
Watersports chapter). Blowing in the Wind in Wrightsville Beach is
the area’s only supplier of kiteboarding products and lessons. Come
check out the dazzling array of kites and explore their wide selection
of windsocks, wind chimes, puzzles and wooden toys for kids.
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Candles Etc.
Chandler's Wharf , 2 Ann St., Wilmington
(910) 763-1703 |
The largest Root Candle distributor on the
East Coast, Candles Etc. has all 28 colors and 64 fragrances made by
this upscale candle company, as well as brochures explaining the
history. Candles Etc. is also the exclusive dealer for Wilmington
Historic Prints. They also carry a wide array of unique home decor
items. You'll want to browse for a while, but don't miss the fabulous
view of the river from their deck.
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Chandler's Wharf
22 Ann St. and 25 S. Water St., Wilmington
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Overlooking the river at the corner of Ann and
Water streets, Chandler's Wharf offers many appealing shopping
opportunities. Created by Thomas Henry Wright Jr. in the late 1970s, it has
evolved over time as a retail/dining complex, but part of it began as a
ship's chandler in the nineteenth century. There was a maritime museum here
in the 1970s and some marine artifacts are still scattered about the
grounds, including an enormous anchor and other reminders of the complex's
origins. Cobblestone streets, plank walkways, attractive landscaping and a
gorgeous view of the Cape Fear River are a few of the hallmarks that make
shopping at Chandler's Wharf such a pleasant experience. The center is
flourishing with some of Wilmington's most delightful stores. It also boasts
three of the city's most appealing restaurants, The Pilot House, The George
and Elijah's (see our
Restaurants chapter). Dining in any one of these is a pleasure
heightened by the option of enjoying your meal on outdoor decks overlooking
the river. Some of the shops at
Chandler's Wharf include A Proper Garden, (910) 763-7177,
which has everything and more for the garden and gardener; A. Scott
Rhodes, (910) 763-6616, a full-service jewelry store specializing
in custom design and offering selections in fine diamonds, precious stones,
local estate jewelry and designer pieces; Candles Etc.,
(910) 763-1703, exclusive distributors of Root Candles and Wilmington
Historic Prints; and Romax Shoes, (910) 763-8033, which
sells quality shoes, accessories and jewelry.
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The Cotton Exchange
321 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 343-9896 |
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The site of the largest cotton-exporting company in the
world in the nineteenth century, this collection of eight buildings
overlooking the Cape Fear River was converted into a shopping and dining
center in the early 1970s. Its renovation marked the beginning of the
restoration of downtown Wilmington. Shoppers can enjoy a bit of history as
they stroll the mall's tri-level space, where displays of cotton bales,
weighing equipment and photographs tell the story of the center's
evolution and about many downtown locations. Parking is free in the large
lot for visitors of the complex. The sampling
of specialty shops listed here suggests the scope of shopping
possibilities at The Cotton Exchange (all stores are within the complex
bounded by Water and Front streets). T. S. Brown Jewelry,
(910) 762-3467, specializes in loose gems, custom settings and handcrafted
pieces. The Celtic Shop, (910) 763-1990, features
imported Irish and Scottish clothing, Celtic music, jewelry, clan heraldry
items, books, authentic Irish breakfast tea and many other gift ideas.
Kringles Korner, (910) 762-7528, is the place to
Christmas shop in downtown Wilmington, offering a variety of unique
ornaments, nativities, angels and wonderful Christmas collectibles.
Occasions ... just write!, (910) 343-9033, features
social stationery and invitations, fine writing instruments, sealing wax,
journals and desk accessories plus a large selection of cards. Two
Sisters Bookery, (910) 762-4444, carries a surprisingly wide
range of books, including ones of local interest, as well as cards and
gifts. Caravan Beads, (910) 343-0500, is a bead-lovers
paradise offering classes and a venue for birthday parties. The
Candy Barrel, (910) 762-3727, has homemade candies, fudge and
taffy. The Zoo, (910) 815-3410, is a fun toy store
featuring plush animals, Lionel and HO trains.
Some other shops you'll find worth visiting are
Java Dog Coffeehouse, (910) 343-8890, for specialty
coffee drinks and pastries; The Sand Dollar, (910)
763-6769, a delightful place to find shells, lighthouses and garden items;
Crescent Moon, (910) 762-420, for handcrafted stained and
blown glass; Down to Earth, (910) 251-0041, an
aromatherapy gift shop; Hummingbird Station, (910)
251-2566, for crafts, pottery and gift items; and Cape Fear
Footwear, (910) 763-9945, which carries sandals, tennis shoes,
Hushpuppies and handbags.
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Grand Bazaar
331 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 763-7737 |
Step through the doorway of Grand Bazaar and
enter a world of Middle Eastern splendor. Located in The Cotton Exchange,
this unique shop carries a wonderful array of antiques and modern items from
Turkey, India, Egypt and other countries, all handmade to owner Gina
Jarman's specifications. Browse through the assortment of silk and wool
rugs, sumptuous silk hand-beaded bedding, cushions, wall hangings, an
extensive collection of inlaid wood boxes, furniture, glassware, Kutahya
ceramics, hanging lamps, brass trays, leather shoes and handbags, and pure
silver Turkish jewelry. All items are one of a kind, and prices are
surprisingly affordable. If you're looking for a truly unique gift, this is
the place to find it.
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Island Passage Elixir
4 Market St., Wilmington
(910) 762-0484
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Located near the waterfront at the end of
Market Street, this charming boutique offers the latest in women's
clothing fashions as well as a selection of personalized gifts, jewelry
and shoes. Visit Island Passage's other shops: Island Passage at Lumina
Station, 1900 Eastwood Road near Wrightsville Beach, (910) 256-0407; and
Island Passage Riverside on Bald Head Island, (910) 457-4944, which
carries fun island resort wear and is your one-stop shop for everything
you need to enjoy the traffic-free pleasures of the locale. They even
have kayak, canoe, bicycle and golf cart rentals. A larger Bald Head
Island location on Maritime Way, called Maritime Passage, (910)
454-8420, has a fabulous selection of clothing, shoes and accessories
for men, women and children. You won't want to miss the newest shop,
Return Passage, 15 S. Water Street, Wilmington, (910) 343-1627, which
carries deeply discounted merchandise from all the other Island Passage
stores, as well as gently worn items.
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Kingoff's Jewelers
10 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 762-5219
www.kingoffs.com |
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Jewelers since 1919, Kingoff's offers a large
selection of fine diamonds and colored stone jewelry in 18K, 14K and
platinum. They also offer Tag Heuer watches and gifts by Waterford
Crystal. Guaranteed watch and jewelry repairs are done on the premises,
and four Guild Gemologists of the Diamond Council of America are
available for appraisals. Kingoff's is the exclusive seller of the Old
Wilmington Cup created in the early 1800s by Thomas Brown. This pewter
cup is a favored gift among Wilmingtonians for a variety of special
occasions. Kingoff's also has a second location at 1119-B Military
Cutoff Road.
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Nautical Hangups
24 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 763-4844, (800) 545-1847 |
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Dubbed the "Home Port of the Waterways
Collection," Nautical Hangups showcases the unique creations of local artist
Terry Moore. The Waterways Collection is a series of artistic maps depicting
the coastal regions of the United States, and the original maps, hand-drawn
and painted in oils by Moore, are the source of these unique and highly
collectible prints, notecards and other items featured in the shop. Each map
includes a poem, by the artist, about the region portrayed. Look closely and
you'll find a hidden, good-luck rabbit in each map. Nautical Hangups also
carries nautical-themed gifts and accessories to complement Moore's art.
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Old Books on Front Street
22 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 763-4754 |
Treasure hunting starts here! Old Books on Front
Street includes more than one mile of books in historic downtown Wilmington.
Check out the selection of rare and first editions, new books on local
history, children's books, "beach reading" (approximately two thousand books
for $2 or less!) and everything in between. Free story time is held every
Saturday and Monday at 10 AM.
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The Old Wilmington City Market
119 S. Water St., Wilmington |
The Old Wilmington City market is a riverfront
gem. This historic brick and stucco building, built in 1879, stretches a
city block in width between Front and Water streets. From its humble origins
as a vegetable market, this old world–style arcade with glass skylights
throughout is now a shopping haven featuring art galleries and chic
specialty shops, including women's boutiques, T-shirts, hats, jewelry,
fresh-cut flowers in season, plants, gardening supplies, handmade local
soaps, unique exotic woods, imported goods and works by local artists. The
market also features a relaxing seating area. Open year round, hours vary
according to season.
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Return Passage
15 S. Water St., Wilmington
(910) 343-1627 |
In the Jacobi Warehouse, right around the corner
from Island Passage Elixir, is the latest Island Passage shop. Return
Passage has deeply discounted merchandise from all of the other Island
Passage locations, as well as gently worn items. They carry the hottest name
brands and styles of once-worn clothing, and their inventory changes
constantly. At Return Passage, you can trade in your gently worn clothing
for cash or store credit that can be used at any of the Island Passage
boutiques.
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Revolution 9
The Cotton Exchange, Downtown Wilmington, Wilmington
(910) 762-8440
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Revolution 9 (formerly A Little Bit Hippy) is a
paradise of rock-n-roll paraphernalia. With the tagline “peace, threads and
rock-n-roll,” the store offers an array of T-shirts, posters and other items
featuring bands like the Beatles, the Stones, Pink Floyd, the Allman
Brothers and more. Revolution 9 also stocks vintage clothing, peasant tops,
skirts, purses, hats and jewelry. Prefer to make and wear your own creation?
Check out their tie-dye clothing kits. For those who want to make a
statement, the store boasts one of the largest local selections of bumper
stickers and buttons. You will also find lava lamps, black lights and
candles for your home. And the store demonstrates a touch of altruism with
their recycled phone drive; you can drop off your old, unused cell phones
there, and the interior parts will be reused to make calling cards for the
military troops overseas.
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Rōpa, Etc.
120-B S. Front St., Wilmington
(910)
815-0344 |
Rôpa, Etc. is the area's exclusive retailer for
such lines as Flax, Willow and Cut-Loose. This terrific shop also carries
Rico and Pure hand-knit sweaters, TSD and Habitat, offering easy-care
fabrics with style and comfort guaranteed. Rôpa, Etc. is also known for its
unique collection of hand-wrought American and European jewelry plus great
accessories to complement any outfit. Other Rôpa, Etc. stores in the area
include their location at The Forum, 1121-D Military Cutoff Road, and their
Southport location at 417-C N. Howe Street.
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Sambuca Organic Lifestyle
Boutique and Spa
200 N. Front St., Wilmington
(910) 343-0201
www.sambucalifestyle.com |
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If you're serious about lessening your carbon
footprint, Sambuca is the shop for you. More than a shop and a day spa, all
of their products, fashions and services are recycled or organic and do not
harm the environment or living creatures. Their mission is to provide
organic and sustainable products and services; their hope is to inspire
people to think differently about the things they buy, how they are made and
where they come from, in order to vote for a more sustainable world. Located
in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Sambuca provides exquisite spa
services, including facials and massages, and yoga classes, and an upscale
boutique offering unique selections from designers incorporating organic,
fair trade, renewable and recycled materials into their products without
sacrificing style. Their clothing and accessories are made from certified
organically grown cotton and recycled materials. They also sell the purest
beauty and skincare products made with organic and natural ingredients
containing no chemicals or synthetic preservatives. So, for guilt-free
shopping and superior quality products, visit Sambuca.
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Twice Baked Pottery Painting
Studio
6 Market St., Wilmington
(910) 632-6778 |
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You can while away a few hours on a rainy day or
after a stroll along the riverfront by stopping in the Twice Baked Pottery
Painting Studio. Choose from a wide variety of items to create your own
unique pottery piece. With more than 50 paint colors, as well as stencils,
stamps and idea books, this is a fun place to forget your troubles and just
get into a creative mood. Special events are presented monthly such as Girls
Night Out and wine tastings, so call for a schedule. Group rates are
available for parties of six or more, and you may bring your own food and
drinks. The shop is closed on Monday and closes one hour early if there are
no painters. Hours are seasonal. |
Continue To
Midtown Wilmington
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Links
To Other Area Shopping |
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