For those inclined to spend money, there is no shortage of things to buy in Wilmington. The major shopping areas are downtown along Front Street, and in Modern Wilmington, on Oleander near Independence Mall, and along South College Street.
Shopping in historic Downtown district is an activity closer in spirit to the '40's and '50's than today. You won't find chain, or even department stores here. The shops have a boutique flavor, that often reflect the tastes of the owner, who may be the person giving you personal attention. This is the place for the person who sees shopping as more than a transaction. It is a way to spend time, and discover curiosities.
Shopping downtown is centered on Front Street. The north end is marked by The Cotton Exchange, a mini-mall located in what was once the world's largest cotton market. On the southern extremity is Chandler's Wharf, a one time supply center for ships. The distance between these two centers, an easy walk, is filled with the largest collection of antique shops in the region.
A collection of galleries, boutiques, gift shops, jewelry, and other unusual shops and restaurants. Located in eight early 20th Century buildings linked together by a maze of doors and courtyards.
A variety of shops on the river front clustered together along a cobble stone road. Shops include gourmet foods and wine, ladies apparel and accessories, home accents, linens and furnishings. Chandler's Wharf is also the home to two of Wilmington's favorite restaurants.
Downtown Wilmington has nearly 20 antique shops, enough for the antique dealers to have their own association. Their specialties range from jewelry to military. You can kill a lot of time here.
Shopping in modern Wilmington is like any other small city. The main shopping area is along S.College Rd., with strip malls where anything you might need can be found. Independence mall is the only big indoor mall, and is a big attraction on rainy days.
Shopping in Carolina Beach is limited. Residents usually take the 15 minute commute to Wilmington to do their major shopping. A new Wal-mart, strip mall, grocery store is at the intersection of Carolina Beach Rd. and Hwy 421, so it's not necessary to go all the way into Wilmington for the necessities. The shopping opportunities that do exist mostly souvenir/beach shops along the boardwalk and main strip.
The town of Wrightsville has limited shopping opportunities. Residents do most of the necessity buying across the bridge in one of three strip mall shopping areas which host a wide variety of shops, from marine supply to lingerie. An exception is Redix, a very popular store of incredible variety, from fine clothes to hardware. Great end of season deals- on the causeway.
On the road to Wrightsville Beach is Lumina Station, an upscale collection of shops, restaurants and offices modeled on the historic Lumina pavilion of old Wrightsville Beach.
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