Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Wilmington's only public colonial-era structure, offering a glimpse into 18th-century life with historic furnishings and beautiful gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wilmington's only public colonial-era structure, offering a glimpse into 18th-century life with historic furnishings and beautiful gardens.
"The tour was fascinating, offering a one-stop-shop to general history of Wilmington."
🎯 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Chuck and John are praised for being informative, charismatic, and providing deep historical insights. :star:
⏰ Tour Duration
Tours are on the hour and can last over an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house's history. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
18th-Century Furnishings
Interior of the House
Explore authentic period pieces that showcase life in pre-revolutionary times. See restored paint colors from 1770.
Terraced Gardens
Exterior Gardens
Wander through seven distinct garden areas, beautifully maintained and offering a peaceful escape. Spring blooms are a highlight.
Historic Jail Site
Exterior and Basement
Discover the house's past as the old city jail, complete with visible jail cells and the former jailer's quarters.
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Planning Your Visit
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Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Chuck and John are praised for being informative, charismatic, and providing deep historical insights. :star:
⏰ Tour Duration
Tours are on the hour and can last over an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house's history. :clock1:
🌸 Garden Strolls
Enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens, especially vibrant in spring with azaleas and other blooms. :tulip:
👻 Ghostly Tales
The house has a reputation for paranormal activity, with some tours focusing on its ghostly history. :ghost:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Chuck and John are praised for being informative, charismatic, and providing deep historical insights. :star:
⏰ Tour Duration
Tours are on the hour and can last over an hour, offering a comprehensive look at the house's history. :clock1:
🌸 Garden Strolls
Enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens, especially vibrant in spring with azaleas and other blooms. :tulip:
👻 Ghostly Tales
The house has a reputation for paranormal activity, with some tours focusing on its ghostly history. :ghost:
🎨 Art & Craft Markets
Check for special events like craft markets and live painting sessions held throughout the year. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens for its well-preserved history and knowledgeable guides. The tours are described as fascinating and informative, offering a comprehensive look at colonial life and Wilmington's past. While the house's historic nature means it's not handicap accessible, the beautiful gardens and engaging narratives make it a highly recommended stop for history enthusiasts.
"Definitely a must-see place in Wilmington! Most objects are well preserved pieces from the house. Very knowledgeable and engaging guide who spent a lot of time explaining every interesting object in the house. History is fun and she proved it with excellent tour! The gardens were closed but this made me decide to return one day to see them as well."
Yaroslav Bondarenko
"Driving back from the low country, my sister and I decided to make a side trip to Wilmington. The tour was fascinating. It was interesting to learn that the house was used for entertaining the Wilmington upper class for many years before the Wright family bought it. And before that, it was the Wilmington jail.
The tour takes about an hour and is worth it."
M S
"the tours are done on the hour and last probably just over an hour. our tour guide, chuck, was very knowledgeable and charismatic. he was able to efficiently explain the history and process behind the home and its many functions and features. when asked a question, he was able to give a significant amount of insight. the tour was extremely informative and a good one-stop-shop to general history of wilmington. definitely worth checking out! :)"
reese lopez fahrenholz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is located at 224 Market Street in Downtown Wilmington, NC. It's easily accessible by car, and there are often parking garages nearby. Public transportation options may also be available within Wilmington.
While street parking might be limited, several parking garages are available in the downtown Wilmington area, making it convenient to visit the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens. Check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Yes, the Burgwin-Wright House is centrally located in Downtown Wilmington, making it a pleasant walk from many other attractions, shops, and restaurants. It's part of the vibrant Market Street area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens typically offers guided tours on the hour. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours, as these can vary seasonally or for special events.
Admission is usually via guided tour, and while specific prices can change, it's generally an affordable attraction. Check the official Burgwin-Wright House website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for guided tours, is recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons or for special events. This helps ensure your spot and can save time.
Yes, the Burgwin-Wright House frequently hosts special events, including craft markets, art shows, and seasonal celebrations like Colonial Christmas Open Houses. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.,
Unfortunately, due to its historic nature as an 18th-century building, the Burgwin-Wright House is not handicap accessible. Visitors should be aware of stairs and uneven surfaces.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided tours are highly praised for their knowledgeable and engaging guides who share fascinating stories about the house's history, architecture, and former residents. Tours typically last just over an hour.
Inside, you'll find a collection of 18th and 19th-century antiques and furnishings that have been carefully preserved to reflect the period. The house itself showcases Georgian architecture and restored paint colors from 1770.
The gardens are a significant feature, comprising seven distinct areas. They are beautifully maintained and offer a peaceful environment to explore, especially vibrant in the spring with blooming azaleas and other plants.,
Yes, the house is known for its historical connections to the old city jail and has a reputation for being haunted. Some tours may touch upon its ghostly lore, adding an intriguing element to the visit.,
Built in 1770, it is Wilmington's only surviving colonial-era structure open to the public. It served as a jail before becoming a prominent home, offering insights into pre-revolutionary life and architecture.,
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted inside the house to capture the historic furnishings and architecture. It's always best to confirm with your guide upon arrival.
The beautifully manicured gardens offer numerous picturesque spots, especially during spring when flowers are in bloom. The exterior of the Georgian-style house also makes for a striking photograph.,
While general photography is usually allowed, be mindful of any specific rules regarding commercial use or drone photography. Sharing your experiences on social media is encouraged, as seen in many TikTok and Instagram posts.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for special events like craft markets or holiday celebrations, which often have a more festive and family-friendly atmosphere. These events can make the visit even more dynamic and enjoyable for younger visitors. Checking the house's schedule for these activities is a good idea before your trip.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Guides are exceptionally knowledgeable, often architects themselves or history enthusiasts, providing in-depth explanations of construction techniques, historical context, and the lives of the people who inhabited the house and the jail. The layered history, from jail to elegant home, offers a rich narrative for serious historical study.
📸 Photographers & Garden Lovers
, Beyond the gardens, the historic interiors, with their period furnishings and restored paint colors, offer unique photographic opportunities. While flash photography may be restricted inside, the natural light and preserved details create a compelling visual experience. Keep an eye out for special events like live painting sessions, which can add an artistic element to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Life
The house's history is layered, having also served as the Wilmington jail and dungeon. This dual history adds a fascinating, albeit sometimes somber, dimension to the visitor experience. Exploring the former jail cells and the jailer's quarters offers a stark contrast to the elegance of the main house, highlighting the diverse functions of the property throughout its existence.
Guided tours are the primary way to experience the house, and they are consistently praised for their depth and engagement. Guides often share captivating stories and detailed historical context, making the visit both educational and entertaining. This immersive approach allows visitors to truly connect with the past and appreciate the significance of this historic landmark.
The Enchanting Gardens
Visitors can wander through these varied garden sections, each offering a unique aesthetic and atmosphere. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful moment, the gardens provide a delightful contrast to the historical narratives within the house. They are a testament to the enduring beauty and horticultural traditions of the region.
These gardens are not just for passive viewing; they are often the site of special events, including craft markets and art exhibitions. This integration of nature, history, and community activities makes the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens a dynamic destination that offers something for everyone.,
A Touch of the Paranormal
While not all tours focus exclusively on the paranormal, the house's reputation adds an extra layer of mystique to a visit. The stories of past residents and events within the jail and house can be quite vivid, sparking the imagination and adding an element of suspense to the historical narrative.
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the ghostly lore surrounding the Burgwin-Wright House contributes to its unique character and makes it a memorable destination for those interested in history with a hint of the unexplained.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit