My boyfriend and I are in the early stages of planning a trip to North Carolina. For now, we're looking at staying in Wilmington in mid-July. As far as an itinerary goes, we don't have anything particular in mind so far...we're in our mid-twenties and we like the beach, seafood, historical stuff, museums, some shopping, beautiful scenery (maybe some light hiking), etc. Obviously, we'd be renting a car and we're not opposed to driving a couple hours to do or see any of the above.

Can anyone offer this clueless traveler some suggestions for lodging, dining, sightseeing, places to avoid (tourist traps)? Many thanks!!!

I love the Wilmington area. The Holiday Inn on Wrightsville Beach is nice. There are some excellent restaurants in the area (PortLand Grille, Jerry's, NOFO). Do a word search on this forum for Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach and you will find tons of good suggestions from the Tarheels. Enjoy your visit!

How long? Where from? I ask where from because you might like to take a little jaunt to Goldsboro for the most authentic BBQ in the US.

To answer the above question, we're coming from Minneapolis and will be staying roughly a week.

Many of the places on the beach will require a week rental. Truth be told, that is the way to go anyway. For that amount of time try www.ncbrunswick.com. all close to Wilmington but much cheaper as well.