Shopping Tips
Have
fun, get some fresh air and shop, too. Many local merchants, artists and
vendors have booths or tents at popular outdoor events such as Riverfest,
Seafood, Blues & Jazz Festival, North Carolina Azalea Festival and Art in
the Park (see our Attractions chapter).
For a
shopping change of pace, spend the day in Southport. Stop for lunch at one
of the great seafood restaurants overlooking the Waterway and the Cape
Fear River. Ride the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry. Stroll along the
waterfront and relax on a swinging seat in the park.
When
you want beachy stuff, shells, toys, towels, suits and souvenirs, go to a
beach store. From Topsail Island to Sunset Beach you'll find all kinds of
locally owned shops filled with wonderful beach treasures. Some beach
communities have popular chain stores like Wings and Kings, but for the
most part, stores reflect the local flavor.
Shop
for fresh regional produce, plants, herbs, cut flowers and seafood at the
Riverfront Farmer's Market. An open-air market, set up along Water Street
in downtown Wilmington, the Farmer's Market is held every Saturday (8 AM
to noon) from mid-April through December. Every third Saturday arts and
crafts are for sale by local artisans. 