The charming town of Southport is picture-perfect steeped in history and picturesque beauty that takes you back in the distant past of pirates and privateers. A hidden gem of coastal North Carolina, it is located at the mouth of the Cape Fear River. Founded in the 1700s and boasting a rich tapestry of maritime history, Southport will inspire you with its warm hospitality and charm. The town’s vibrant community spirit is truly welcoming and it has been named one of “America’s Happiest Seaside Towns”. Stroll through the friendly streets of downtown or enjoy a waterfront breeze to connect with nature. Here’s a list of things to Do in Southport NC Today while visiting this charming town.
Best Things to Do in Southport NC
1. Fort Johnston Museum
Commissioned to be built in 1754, this ancient museum is in the historic Garrison House. It invites you to the glorious journey of its local history and culture. History buffs will love the place as they explore the past through authentic artifacts, original documents, photographs, and handicrafts. You will learn what makes Southport such a fantastic little town and why it boasts of charming hospitality.
2. North Carolina Maritime Museum
Once a humble establishment on Howe Street, it is today one of the alluring and celebrated places in the town. Located at the confluence of Cape River Fear, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, this museum narrates the rich maritime heritage of this region. If you are interested or a history fan, spend time through its diverse collection that will provide you with an engaging afternoon.
3. Northrop Antiques Mall
The downtown area is home to a wealth of cute shops and boutiques but what attracts the attention is the Northrop Antiques Mall. With an underlying coastal style, you will find the treasure of goods including art and furnishing, porcelain and glassware, military memorabilia, toys and games and so much more. It will feel like you are on a fun journey and an eclectic treasure hunt. There are many shops to browse and find some unique souvenirs to take back home.
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4. Southport Fishing Pier
Easily accessible, this small pier is also a starting point for Riverwalk Trail, a path that winds through scenic waterfront landscapes. You can lounge in this enlivened atmosphere complete with park benches, a gazebo, and swings. If you want to go fishing or bird watching, this is one of the best spots to do so. You can spend time with your beau or family, there is much to do for either party.
5. Artshak Studio and Gallery
As an art enthusiast, you will love and rejoice in the creative scene happening in Southport. Artshak Studio is set in a barn-style décor on the edge of downtown with a cool and diverse collection of works. Pieces of photography, sculpture, painting, and more from local and regional artists are on display here. You can browse from one shop to the next as if you are on a treasure hunt that will bring the same beauty of Southport back to your home.
6. Southport Waterfront Park
Bordering the downtown streets and Cape Fear River waterfront, this 9-acre park is a stunning location with open water views. There are comfortable wooden benches adjacent to the water so visitors can spend hours watching ships come in and out of the mouth of the Cape Fear River. If you want other means of relaxation, fishing is also an option.
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7. Old Brunswick County Jail
Before the fire and hurricane destroyed the old wooden structures, they rebuilt the Old Brunswick County Jail in 1904. The jail includes an area dedicated to living quarters for the jailor and his family, along with two cells. Each cell features four bunks, a commode, and a wash basin. You can take a picture behind bars at the Old Jail and learn about the most notorious criminal to be booked, actress Sissy Spacek, who appeared in the 1986 film “Crimes of the Heart.”
8. Oak Island Nature Center
A perfect place for families, Oak Island Nature Center is nestled next to the Intracoastal Waterway. The kids would love to play and explore the area while learning about the flora and fauna. It features a fishing area and floating deck and holds programs for the youth during the summer. You can learn about native trees like Magnolia, Wax Myrtles, Sweet Gums, and many more. You can hike and picnic right next door with a beautiful waterway view.
9. Silver Coast Winery
When you visit Southport, you will forget about the Wilmington breweries once you taste the award-winning wines by Silver Coast Winery. A family-owned business, they have an amazing collection of their wines on-site to try. You can taste the varietals that were aged in oak barrels in a semi-dry tradition, close to European style. They have beer too if you want to try out some locally crafted ones.
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10. Ingram Planetarium
A WW2 airman, Stuart Ingram, made the impossible happen. Envisioned and founded in 2002, the Ingram Planetarium will impress visitors with starry nights or rainy days. Located outside of Sunset Beach on the mainland, it provides an incredible experience of sparkly nights in comfort. They have exhibits like augmented reality and discovery centers where visitors can learn about computer-generated sensory input and hurricanes.
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Concluding Words
From stargazing to sipping on local wine, Southport’s charm doesn’t end here. You can learn about the impact movies and series have had on the culture here – one of the largest film studios is located here, and many movies have been filmed in its perfect rustic locations. From birding to fishing, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do if in case you are not into movies. The town won’t stop providing you with loads of fun activities to indulge in.
