The word that best describes your shopping experience in the coastal town of Wilmington is "diverse," not only diverse in merchandise, but also diverse in locale and atmosphere. Of course, Wilmington has its share of chain retailers such as Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, Circuit City, and Target, just to name a few, but it is the specialty shops that exist in the Port City that really illustrate the character and experience of the Cape Fear area. The major shopping areas are along South College Road, on Oleander near the newly renovated and expanded Westfield Independence Mall, Mayfaire Towne Center on Military Cut Off Road and in the historic downtown area.

The downtown historic district is a shopping experience that you will remember and want to return to. Shopping in this area is a practice that is closer to an experience in the 1940's than the present. There are absolutely no department or chain stores in the area. For a full day of shopping, you will also find many unique cafes and coffee shops for your relaxation between stores.

Each shop has its own charisma in a small boutique atmosphere. Many shops are locally owned, and they are usually operated fully by the owners and their friends. This makes for attentive assistance in any case. The downtown streets are seasoned with many street shops and also a few mini-malls, which have more specialty shops scattered throughout. The Cotton Exchange and Chandler's Wharf are two very charming centers that provide the atmosphere for a relaxing shopping experience. Likewise, Wilmington's Shops at Lumina Station and Shops at TheForum provide a similar atmosphere, with beautiful little shops and charming cafes, just over the drawbridge from the beach.

So, if you view shopping as more than just a hurried purchasing activity, then discover the beauty, character, and curiosities of the beautiful historic downtown market and the rest of the nooks and crannies of Wilmington. See you soon!