One thing I look forward to each spring in Charlotte is the arrival of the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament. After all, I live only a few steps away from Quail Hollow and I love the buzz it brings to the surrounding area; blimps flying overhead, days spent walking the course and the chance to be outdoors enjoying everything spring has to offer. So naturally I’m even more thrilled for the arrival of the PGA Tournament in August, while also a little disappointed that the Wells Fargo is temporarily relocating to Wilmington for the season to allow for the PGA preparation.
But that doesn’t mean we can’t add a little road trip to our calendars the first week of May to watch the Championship. Wilmington is only about a 3.5 hour drive away and its history and beauty rival that of other Southern coastal cities like Charleston and Savannah. Plus after watching Garcia win that infamous green jacket at the Masters last week, how could you not be excited to see who will be teeing off at Eagle Point Golf Club?
If you’re planning on making the trip to the Wells Fargo Golf tourney in a few weeks, here are the best places to eat, stay and play while in the Wilmington area:
STAY
Places to stay for the tourney are slim pickings, as they say, as most hotels have been booked up for months, but there are still some great options on sites like VRBO and AirBNB for all you last minute golf-goers.
Rent this historic riverfront home in downtown Wilmington that sleeps up to 8 and invite all your friends!
Rent an entire home just steps from the golf course on AirBNB
EAT
Savorez, 402 Chestnut Street, Wilmington
This new & noteworthy Latin-American inspired spot is hot, so best to make a reservation. You can’t go wrong with anywhere that has empanadas AND shrimp & grits on the menu right?
Cape Fear Seafood Company, 5226 S College Rd, Wilmington
Can’t go to the coast and not enjoy some fresh seafood and hushpuppies and Cape Fear is the place to do it. Stuffed Flounder, house made Key Lime pie, risotto, the list of must-eats goes on and on.
Wilmington Brewing Company, 824 S Kerr Ave Wilmington
If you’re like most people, it’s tough to go to a new city and not head to the hottest craft breweries in town. In Wilmington, Wilmington Brewery is one of the beloved. With its family-friendly tap room, beer garden and lounge, you can sit back and relax with a Beach Banger IPA or Jalapeno Saison after a day on the course.
Wake n’ Bake Donuts, 1401 N Lake Park Blvd Suite 46, Carolina Beach
Seriously though. They weren’t voted best donut shop in NC for nothing. Wake n’ Bake caters to both people like me who enjoy standard glazed or chocolate cake flavors, or you foodies who thrive off unique flavors like Maple Bacon or Fruit Loops.
PLAY
Rent a boat for the afternoon
After spending the morning watching a few rounds, head out on the water with a boat rental. For $315 you can rent for half-day in the afternoon from Nauti Times or if you’re in town for the week, rent for an entire day for $375.
Play a Round and pretend you’re a Professional
While you can’t play at Eagle Point, there are plenty of other amazing golf courses to tee off on in the Wilmington area.
Beau Rivage Golf Resort – prices range from $33 – $65 a round per day
Get Active Outdoors
Take a kayaking eco-tour, try your luck at stand-up paddleboarding or rent a bike to cycle through the State Park from Paddle NC.
There’s so much to do in the Wilmington area, we certainly can’t list it ALL here so if you make the trip be sure to leave us a comment and let us know what you enjoy while you’re there! And if you still need some help, the Wilmington Tourism website has some excellent resources on where to stay, what to eat and what to do while you’re in the area no matter if you’re off to the tournament or planning your summer vacation.
