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Best Bars in Downtown Wilmington, NC

Best Bars in Downtown Wilmington, NC

Looking for a place to relax with friends after a long day in the sun? If you are, there are plenty of bars in Wilmington, NC, from which you can choose. Whether you're looking for something upscale or casual, there's a spot for you in the city. Beer drinkers and vodka soda drinkers alike will able to have a great time and a great drink in these local bars Downtown Wilmington has to offer:


Duck and Dive Pub

At the Duck and Dive Pub, you can gather for lunch, dinner, or for standalone drinks at the bar. Because Duck and Dive Pub is located right on the water, you're guaranteed to have a beautiful view of Downtown Wilmington. For Wilmington residents looking for a welcoming dive bar, this spot is perfect for you; there are pool tables and darts available for guests, too.

The Blind Elephant

While we're discussing exclusive bars in Wilmington, we should mention The Blind Elephant. The Blind Elephant is a speakeasy-style bar, so once you find the hidden entrance, you'll be transported to the 1920s. Imagine a bar with a grand piano, beautiful décor, and upscale cocktails—that's what you'll find at The Blind Elephant.

a cocktail glass with a orange garnish on a bar

The Pour House

The Pour House is an edgy bar that's open until 2 AM every day of the week. There are over 100 beers to try at the Pour House, and in addition, there are some unique wine choices available here, as well. The Pour House does not serve food, so grab a bite to eat at a local Wilmington restaurant before popping in. The Pour House puts on great weeknight festivities to stop in for an amazing experience!


The Penthouse

You can find your fair share of dives in Wilmington, but there are some exclusive spots, too. The Penthouse is a private club—you can join the club yourself or, if you know a member, you can come as a guest—that is tucked away inside a ninth-floor apartment. You'll be able to see great views from The Penthouse, and, of course, there are great cocktails. The atmosphere is one-of-a-kind at The Penthouse; it's cozy, intimate, and upbeat.

Katy's Bar and Grill

For those who are looking for a historic spot with live music, Katy's Grill and Sports Bar might just be the right bar in Wilmington for you. On many Friday nights, Katy's has live music. Plus, the restaurant and bar are known to be one of the longest-standing spots in the city. The atmosphere at Katy's is laidback and casual, but there is a tight-knit community of faithful bar-goers at this spot.

a person is holding a guitar

Trolley Pub Wilmington

The Trolley Pub Wilmington is not a brick-and-mortar spot; it's a mobile spot. Instead of stopping by a local bar for drinks in one spot, The Trolley Pub serves as both a place for drinks and a tour of Wilmington. You and your friends have to reserve the trolley in advance, and on the day of your tour, you'll come aboard the Trolley Pub Wilmington's mobile trolley. You'll have to pedal to get through the city, but it's fun—and the delicious drinks will make it all worth it.

Anne Bonny's Bar and Grill

Anne Bonny's Bar and Grill is known as the only floating bar in Wilmington. No matter what you're in the mood to drink at Anne Bonny's, you'll find something that satisfies your cravings. The bar has beer, red and white wine, traditional cocktails, and even fun frozen cocktails. Although this bar isn't open as late as some of the other spots in the area, if you're looking for a great place to eat dinner and drink on the water, this is perfect. Anne Bonny's puts the bar in barge so it is a must-visit spot in Wilmington.

Tavern 14

As it was the winner of the Best in Wilmington Award for Wilmington Magazine, Tavern 14 is a well-loved spot in the city. Between its comforting menu of food and drinks, its bingo and karaoke nights, and its kind staff, it's no surprise that Wilmington residents love visiting Tavern 14. Always be on the lookout for a special at Tavern 14 because, depending on the day, there might be a fun activity or deal going on. Tavern 14 is open late, so come ready to have a great night at the bar.

a sandwich and fries and a glass of beer

Find Your Apartment Near Downtown Wilmington

We've been over a few must-visit bars in Wilmington, NC. There are so many to choose from in the Wilmington area, so, in order to hit them all, you're going to have to find a great place to live in Wilmington, NC! So, if you're relocating to Wilmington, come live with us at the Forest Hills Apartment Homes