Brooklyn Arts District
Wilmington's vibrant Brooklyn Arts District: a hub of art, food, and drink with a lively Social District on Saturdays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Social District fun!
Brooklyn Arts District
Best Time
Social District fun!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wilmington's vibrant Brooklyn Arts District: a hub of art, food, and drink with a lively Social District on Saturdays.
"Love this area! Eclectic & artsy with plenty of eats and drinks to chose from. Always a great day in the BAD"
🎯 Explore the Social District
Enjoy drinks from participating spots and wander the district on Saturdays.
☕ Don't Miss Brooklyn Cafe
Their beignets and donuts are legendary! Try the snickerdoodle coffee.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brooklyn Arts Center (BAC)
516 N. Fourth St.
A historic 1888 church transformed into a stunning event venue, blending old-world charm with modern elegance.

Flytrap Brewing
Downtown Wilmington
Discover a fantastic selection of craft brews and wines in a taproom featuring rotating art collections. Pup-friendly patio available!

The Kitchen Sink
Brooklyn Arts District
Indulge in delicious and unique sandwiches at this culinary gem, a must-visit for foodies.

Brooklyn Cafe
Brooklyn Arts District
Savor incredible beignets and donuts, with the snickerdoodle coffee being a standout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Artsy Vibe
Navigate the Social District
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore the Social District
Enjoy drinks from participating spots and wander the district on Saturdays.
☕ Don't Miss Brooklyn Cafe
Their beignets and donuts are legendary! Try the snickerdoodle coffee.
🍺 Flytrap Brewing Delights
Great craft beer, wine, and rotating art. Pup-friendly patio!
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check out local venues like Palate Bottle Shop for performances.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore the Social District
Enjoy drinks from participating spots and wander the district on Saturdays.
☕ Don't Miss Brooklyn Cafe
Their beignets and donuts are legendary! Try the snickerdoodle coffee.
🍺 Flytrap Brewing Delights
Great craft beer, wine, and rotating art. Pup-friendly patio!
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check out local venues like Palate Bottle Shop for performances.
📍 Food Truck Hub
Discover diverse eats at the food truck hub, often with live music.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Brooklyn Arts District's eclectic and artsy vibe, highlighting its diverse range of eateries, bars, and unique shops. The Social District on Saturdays is a popular draw, offering a lively atmosphere for enjoying drinks while exploring. While generally positive, some visitors note that popular spots can get crowded, and drink 'stickers' for the Social District may run out during peak times.
"Good first day of Social District. Big crowds so “stickers” for drink glasses to travel between stores were not available."
Brian Such
"Love this area! Eclectic & artsy with plenty of eats and drinks to chose from. Always a great day in the BAD"
Kim Giardino
""
Elaine Grabowski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Brooklyn Arts District is located on the north side of downtown Wilmington, NC, along 4th Street. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available. Many visitors also enjoy walking or biking to the area from other parts of downtown.
The Brooklyn Arts District is generally considered safe, especially during the day and early evening. Visitors have noted it as a walkable area with a good atmosphere.
Parking can be found on the streets within the district and in nearby lots. During busy events or the Social District hours, it might be more challenging to find a spot, so arriving early is recommended.
While specific bus routes may vary, public transportation options are available in Wilmington. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for routes that serve the downtown area.
Yes, the Brooklyn Arts District is very walkable. It's designed for exploration on foot, with shops, restaurants, and art installations spread throughout the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Brooklyn Arts District itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the streets, shops, and galleries.
While the district is free to enter, individual venues like the Brooklyn Arts Center (BAC) or specific bars and restaurants may have their own admission fees or cover charges, especially for ticketed events or live music.
The district is generally accessible during daylight hours. Individual businesses have their own operating hours, with many open late into the evening, especially on weekends. The Social District has specific hours on Saturdays.
Follow social media accounts like @thebrooklynartsdistrict on Instagram, check local event listings, and look for signage within the district for upcoming markets, live music, and special events.
The Social District itself doesn't have a fee to enter, but you must purchase an alcoholic beverage from a participating establishment to take it outside.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The district is known for its eclectic art scene, featuring galleries, street art, and rotating exhibitions in venues like Flytrap Brewing. You'll find a mix of local and visiting artists.
Popular dining spots include The Kitchen Sink for unique sandwiches, Three10 for modern Southern seafood, and various eateries around the food truck hub. Brooklyn Cafe is a must for sweets.
Yes, the district boasts several great options, including Flytrap Brewing for craft beers and wines, and Palate Bottle Shop which hosts live music.
During designated hours on Saturdays, you can purchase an open container from a participating business and walk around the district. It's a great way to enjoy the atmosphere and hop between venues.
The district features a variety of eclectic shops and boutiques offering handmade treasures and unique finds, perfect for browsing and souvenir hunting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the legendary beignets and donuts from Brooklyn Cafe, unique sandwiches at The Kitchen Sink, and modern Southern seafood at Three10. The food truck hub offers diverse options.
Brooklyn Cafe is highly recommended for its coffee, especially the snickerdoodle flavor, alongside its famous pastries.
You'll find a diverse culinary scene, including American, Southern, seafood, and casual cafe fare. The food truck hub adds even more variety.
Yes, Flytrap Brewing is noted as being pup-friendly, offering an outdoor patio where you can enjoy their brews with your canine companion.
Dining options range from casual and affordable at the food truck hub and cafes to mid-range at restaurants like The Kitchen Sink and Three10. Specific prices will vary by establishment.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street art, eclectic architecture, and lively atmosphere. The Brooklyn Arts Center's historic facade and the colorful murals are great subjects.
Photography policies vary by venue. It's always best to ask permission before taking photos inside private galleries, shops, or restaurants to respect the artists and business owners.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the district's charm. Midday can be good for street art, but be mindful of harsh shadows.
The Brooklyn Arts Center (BAC) is a striking landmark. Also, look for unique murals and the distinctive architecture of the restored buildings throughout the district.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for architecture, and a prime lens is good for low-light situations in bars or restaurants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a Saturday to experience the Social District, which can be fun for older children who can enjoy the lively atmosphere. Many of the shops offer interesting items to browse, and the general walkability of the district makes it easy to navigate with little ones. Keep an eye out for any family-oriented events or markets that might be happening during your visit.
🍻 Craft Beer & Cocktail Enthusiasts
The district's participation in the Social District on Saturdays is a major draw, allowing you to sample drinks from various establishments while exploring. Palate Bottle Shop is another spot that offers a great selection and often features live music, making it a perfect evening destination.
🚶♀️ Walkable Explorers
Start your exploration by strolling along 4th Street, taking in the street art and unique storefronts. The Social District on Saturdays further enhances the walking experience, allowing you to carry your beverage as you discover new spots. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to be charmed by the district's artistic and bohemian vibe.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Social District Experience
When visiting, be mindful of the specific hours and geographical limits of the Social District. While the district itself is free to enter, you must buy a drink from a licensed vendor to participate. This program aims to enhance the visitor experience by encouraging exploration and supporting local businesses. It's a key feature that draws many to the BAD on weekend afternoons.
Tips for enjoying the Social District: Arrive early, especially on busy Saturdays, as drink 'stickers' or cups can run out. Plan your route to visit multiple spots and enjoy the lively street scene. Remember to be respectful of the area and its residents.
A Culinary Journey Through BAD
For savory delights, The Kitchen Sink is renowned for its unique and delicious sandwiches, making it a must-visit spot. If you're craving seafood with a modern Southern twist, Three10 offers an exquisite dining experience in a beautifully restored bungalow. The district also features a vibrant food truck hub, providing a rotating selection of diverse and flavorful options, often accompanied by live music.
Beyond these highlights, the area is dotted with other eateries and bars like Flytrap Brewing, which not only serves great craft brews and wines but also features a rotating art collection. Exploring the culinary landscape of the Brooklyn Arts District is an adventure in itself, with new flavors and experiences waiting around every corner.
Art and Culture in the Brooklyn Arts District
Beyond the BAC, the district is a canvas for local creativity. You'll find galleries showcasing diverse works, and many businesses, like Flytrap Brewing, feature rotating art collections, turning their taprooms into impromptu galleries. Street art and murals add splashes of color and personality to the neighborhood, making every stroll an opportunity to discover new visual delights.
Whether you're interested in historical architecture, contemporary art, or simply soaking in a creative atmosphere, the Brooklyn Arts District offers a rich cultural experience. It's a place where art is not confined to galleries but is woven into the fabric of the community.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit