Best of Wilmington 2026 - Arts & Culture

Wilmington’s arts and culture scene brings together contemporary art, historic venues and attractions rooted in the city’s creative identity. At Cameron Art Museum, named Best Museum, exhibitions, public programs and family offerings make the institution more than a place to view art. As Director of Marketing Matt Budd explains, CAM is “an active, welcoming space for connection, creativity, and lifelong learning.” Each year, we’re excited to cover Design NC, CAM’s two-day spring event that brings internationally recognized designers and artisans to Wilmington for inspiring talks. It helps keep the local arts community thriving while supporting exhibitions, classes, public programs and educational opportunities for more than 8,000 children each year.

Meanwhile, places like Eclipse Artisan Boutique showcases work by more than 200 (mostly local) artists, and Historic Thalian Hall continues a theatrical tradition dating to the 1850s. 

Although named Best Overall Attraction, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is currently closed for a multiyear renovation and expansion. When it reopens, plans call for the state’s largest shark habitat, a new shark-and-ray touch pool, a live coral reef habitat and an expanded education center. 

Best Art Gallery
Eclipse Artisan Boutique
eclipseartisanboutique.com

Best Museum
Cameron Art Museum
cameronartmuseum.org

Best Performing Arts Center
Historic Thalian Hall
thalianhall.org

Best Sightseeing Tour
One Tree Hill: TRIC
welcometotric.com

Best Overall Attraction
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
ncaquariums.com