WILMINGTO
BY ALEXANDRIA OTT
Start with a meal at the Shuckin’ Shack in Wilmington’ s Historic District which offers a shellfish-centric menu with plenty of oysters, beer, and corn to go around. For some unexpected exercise, head over to Topsail Skating Rink to burn off those calories. Approaching its 50th year of existence, this retro roller skate spot plays music on 45 records and is located above the post office in Topsail Beach. If it’ s low tide, take the hike across the jetty at Fort Fisher to Zeke’ s Island. As the most challenging geography in the area, it attracts guests and locals who are ready for it. You can also enjoy a little solitude and shade at Summer Rest Trail. This nearly one-mile trail near Wrightsville Beach is a relaxing place for a getaway or to bring the family for an outdoor adventure.
Also for some family fun, Wilmington offers the Museum of the Bizarre. This curious collection of oddities from Alexander Hamilton’ s hair to Harry Houdini’ s Ouija board is also home to a Mission Impossiblestyle laser vault maze. Kids can navigate the crisscross laser beams and compete to see who can do it without breaking a beam in the shortest amount of time.
For a nice evening out, dine at Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar which has live music many nights of the week. The Carolina Beach embodies relaxation as guests can enjoy lunch or a drink on the water. To build upon the momentum of your stay, head over to Blue Moon Gift Shops on Racine Drive near UNCW. Since opening in 1999, locals and tourists enjoy wandering through the aisles of local treasures. Blue Moon Gift Shops is filled with home accessories, furniture, art, pottery, hand blown glass, apparel, handcrafted jewelry, baby gifts, coastal decor, lamps, photography, gourmet fudge, and local North Carolina products. With over 100 artisans, retailers, and entrepreneurs filling the 8,500-squarefoot space, this is the perfect place to spend a day with friends.
FLYWASHINGTON. COM 46 AUTUMN 2018