Move to the center of it all in the heart of Wilmington. This part of New Hanover County is where commercial meets residential.

Shopping and restaurants abound, but most importantly find quick access to the best Wilmington has to offer. Downtown Wilmington and nearby beaches are a 15-minute drive.

Here are some of our favorite places to eat, play and live around The Heart of Wilmington.

Favorite Neighborhoods:

The Autumn Hall neighborhood is a master-developed community bringing together a blend of housing options. The low-country style homes were built within walking distance to village shops.

Eat and Drink

The Heart of Wilmington is home to the University of North Carolina Wilmington. The diversity of the campus adds a flair to the food scene here. Along Kerr Avenue check out Spanish supermarket (Los Portales) and its nearby taqueria (Los Portales Taqueria.)

Pop into Taste of Italy for eggplant Parmesan and all your favorite Italian imports. 

Grab sandwiches and some of the best hot chocolate in town at Blue Surf Cafe. 

One of Wilmington’s most iconic restaurants, Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn, offers up a twist on traditional burritos, plus the popular “Churkey Changa” available only in November. 

Have Fun

One of the best parks in the area is in the Heart of Wilmington. Long Leaf Park has walking trails, tennis courts, a splash pad, and playgrounds — a park the whole family can enjoy. 

The Cross City Trail zigzags through this zip code, connecting parks and green spaces. Spend a day cycling, walking, or jogging this 15-mile off-road trail that runs from Wade Park, through Halyburton Park and Empie Park to the drawbridge at the Intracoastal Waterway.

The Wilmington Municipal Golf Course is one of the best municipal courses in the state. Read more about it here. 

Shopping

Independence Mall offers department store shopping along with a newly-renovated shopping front. Check out grocery stores Lidl, Whole Foods, and Harris Teeter, plus department stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Belk, JcPenny and more. 

On Racine Drive, Blue Moon Gift Shops is an Arth Group favorite. This large-scale gift shop houses artisans and makers from across the area with a stunning art gallery next door. 

Dragonflies is another favorite with home decor, children’s clothing and women’s jewelry and accessories. 

Consider The Heart of Wilmington in your search and consider this area to settle down and create a life filled with new experiences.