Road Trip: Charlotte to Wilmington Beaches
The drive from Charlotte to Wilmington and the surrounding beach communities (Wrightsville, Kure and Carolina) can be approached two ways: zip down the Interstate (US 74 E) or stop and smell the roses. Countless historic rural towns, yummy restaurants, and even geologic wonders line I-74 and make for several secret stops.
To help you make the most out of your drive from Charlotte to Wilmington areas, we comprised a list of some our favorite points of interest and places to take a break or grab a bite.
How to Get From Charlotte to Wilmington:
- Take US-74 E for 200 miles or approx. 3hours
- Follow US-76 E to S 3rd St in Wilmington
- Turn left onto S 3rd St (signs for US 76 E/Wrightsville Beach) to end in Downtown Wilmington, welcome!
Snap a Photo at Great Falls Mill Ruins in Rockingham
Rockingham’s famed Great Falls Mill are situated about 1.5 hours outside out Charlotte and well worth the pit stop. This historic cotton mill dates back to before the Civil Ware and endured multiple fires. In 1972, the mill experienced it's final fire which left only the façade was left. In time, the surrounding lush forest absorbed much of the brick foundation, producing a picture-worthy backdrop.
Did you know? Not only is the Great Falls Mill Ruins is on the National Register of Historic Places but it was also where Hootie & The Blowfish filmed "The Old Man and Me."
Location: Rockingham, NC 28379
Experience a Piece of History at the National Railroad Museum in Hamlet
The young and young at heart will appreciate a stop in Hamlet. Here you can enjoy a piece of U.S. railroad history at the National Railroad Museum & Hall of Fame, where you'll find rolling stock, photos, model train exhibits and more. Free admission.
Location: 20 W Hamlet Ave, Hamlet, NC 28345
Hand-Pattied Burgers at Mamie's Drive Inn in Laurel Hill
Right about now, you're probably craving a quick, tasty meal. Head to Mamie’s Drive Inn for mouthwatering and fresh-to-order burgers, crinkle fries, and desert. Allow 10 to 15 minutes or call ahead to order: (910) 462-2130.
Location: 9460 Andrew Jackson Hwy, Laurel Hill, NC 28351
Tour the John Blue House in Laurinburg
A historic gem and design, the John Blue House is a unique view into the owner/builders unique archectural inspiration and a bygone era. Mr. John Blue fell in love with riverboats after a visit to Mississippi, and decided to mimick his new home in that style with double circular porches and steamboat-reminiscent ornamental carvings along the porch and railings.
Location: 13040 X Way Rd, Laurinburg, NC 28352
If you're still hungry, stop for a taste of NC barbecue or fried chicken at Smithfield’s in Laurinburg.
Location: 402 Plaza Dr, Laurinburg, NC 28352
Explore Geologic Wonders at Lake Waccamaw State Park
Lake Waccamaw State Park is part of the Carolina bays formations, which are geologic mysteries found along the Eastern seaboard. These curious basins feature aquatic life found nowhere else. Lake Waccamaw's 700-foot boardwalk and 7 miles of trail allow for up-close wildlife viewing and fishing.
Location: 1866 State Park Dr, Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450
Find a Venus Flytrap at Green Swamp Preserve
The Green Swamp is home of the world-renowned Venus Flytrap, a carnivorous plant. In addition, orchids, pitcher plants, rare butterflies and birds are prominent in the 15,907-acre preserve, which is also a National Natural Landmark. The preserve is open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.
Location: 673 Green Swamp Rd NW, Supply, NC 28462
Your Guide to the Wilmington Area
Whether you want to continue exploring once you’ve arrived or just chill on the beach, we've got all the details on Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach in our area guide.