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Cargo District

4.6
·113 reviews·Wilmington, United States

Wilmington's Cargo District: a vibrant urban village built from shipping containers, offering unique shops, eateries, bars, and entertainment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday afternoons/evenings

Lively atmosphere, live music

CrowdMedium
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Cargo District - Image 1

Cargo District

Best Time

Friday afternoons/evenings

Lively atmosphere, live music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Wilmington's Cargo District: a vibrant urban village built from shipping containers, offering unique shops, eateries, bars, and entertainment.

4.6
(113 reviews)

"It is a cute concept in a small part of town... worth checking out if you want a different experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore Hidden Gems

Don't stop at the first few spots; there are many hidden gems to discover!

⏰ Check Business Hours

Hours vary by business. Always double-check before visiting your desired shops or eateries.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rift Speakeasy

The Rift Speakeasy

Inside The Cargo District

A hidden bar behind a fridge door, offering pool, live music, and a chill vibe. Kid-friendly until 8 PM.

TikTok+3
Outdoor Food Court

Outdoor Food Court

The Cargo District

Wilmington's only outdoor food court featuring empanadas, sushi, acai bowls, and more.

TikTokInstagram+1
Burning Pages Bookstore

Burning Pages Bookstore

Inside Design Worx, The Cargo District

A unique, moody bookstore housed in a shipping container, offering a romantic fantasy vibe.

TikTok
Film Legacy Exhibit

Film Legacy Exhibit

16th and Queen Streets, The Cargo District

A glass-enclosed exhibit celebrating Wilmington's 40+ year film history with memorabilia.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Container Charm

The Cargo District is a unique urban village built from shipping containers. Explore its diverse shops, eateries, and bars. Check business hours before you go, as they can vary. Reddit

Timing is Everything

While active on weekends, weekdays offer a more relaxed vibe. Consider visiting on a Friday afternoon/evening for a lively start to your weekend. Reddit

Best Times

When
Friday afternoons/evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings/afternoons
Why
Relaxed exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesdays
Why
Specials & live music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Obsessed with my ear peircings from Royal Studios in Wilmington, NC (located in the Cargo District) ✨ I went with a double cascading helix and re-peircing my second hole for this first round. Im excited to have the full design done! #earstyling #wilmingtonnc
@dakotahersey
91K likes • 637.2K views

🎯 Explore Hidden Gems

Don't stop at the first few spots; there are many hidden gems to discover! TikTokReddit

⏰ Check Business Hours

Hours vary by business. Always double-check before visiting your desired shops or eateries. Reddit

Found the coolest spot in Wilmington, NC - located in The Cargo District!! Walk through what looks like a regular apartment… then open the fridge and boom—you’re in The Rift. Pool tables, couches, TVs, live music, giant games, and a super chill vibe. It’s also kid-friendly until 8PM! Add this to your weekend plans ASAP!!! #therift #thecargodistrict #wilmingtonnc #wilmington #NC#beachlife #newbars
@abbybroder
6K likes • 113.6K views
EVERY WEDNESDAY in The Cargo District, we’ve got food and drink specials, shop deals, live music, extended hours, and more. Here’s the current line-up 👇 LIVE MUSIC 🪕 @alcovebeergarden: Bourbon, Burgers & Live Bluegrass (5pm) 🎤 @thestarlingbar: Live music (6pm-8pm) DRINK SPECIALS
🎯 @tides_taproom: $5 all draft and 30% off merch
🍹 @eoddistillery: $15 Sip and Spritz Flights 
🍷 @fermentalnc: Free ...
thecargodistrict
329 likes • 13.8K views

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Many venues offer live music, especially on Wednesdays and weekends. TikTokInstagram+1

🍔 Diverse Food Options

From empanadas to burgers, the food court offers a variety of delicious choices. TikTokInstagram+1

Next time you're in Wilmington NC Check out the Cargo District. Apartments, shops, restaurants and bars made with shipping containers. #design #interiordesign #architecture #travel #trending #instagram #spring #home #homedesign #cool
evolution_design_group
8 likes • 444 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore Hidden Gems

Don't stop at the first few spots; there are many hidden gems to discover! TikTokReddit

⏰ Check Business Hours

Hours vary by business. Always double-check before visiting your desired shops or eateries. Reddit

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Many venues offer live music, especially on Wednesdays and weekends. TikTokInstagram+1

🍔 Diverse Food Options

From empanadas to burgers, the food court offers a variety of delicious choices. TikTokInstagram+1

🍻 Unique Bar Experiences

Discover speakeasy bars hidden behind ordinary doors for a fun night out. TikTok+2

What Travellers Say

4.6
(113 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Cargo District's unique concept, calling it a 'cute concept' and an 'amazing place' with 'great views.' The diverse food options and hidden bars are frequently highlighted as major draws. While most reviews are positive, some mention that the shops are mostly boutique-style and small, suggesting it's worth checking business hours beforehand.

"Must see
So much fun
So cool
Amazing foods"

Marie Lego

"It is a cute concept in a small part of town. The stores were neat and had some cute and interesting items but mostly boutique style tiny shops. worth checking out if you want a different experience from the normal tourist type places in the area"

Ashley Woodard

"Another fun place in Wilmy. Lots of hidden spots, so keep looking. They even have a CD East, sort of."

Jason Crutchfield

What People Like

Unique shipping container concept
Diverse food and drink options
Hidden speakeasy bars

What People Dislike

Small boutique shops
Variable business hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cargo District is located in downtown Wilmington, NC. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available in the area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk or bike if staying nearby. TikTok

Yes, parking is available in and around the Cargo District. Street parking and designated lots can be found. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. TikTok

Absolutely! If you're staying in downtown Wilmington, walking or biking to the Cargo District is a great option. It's a vibrant area that's enjoyable to explore on foot. TikTok

The Cargo District is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking between the unique shops, restaurants, and bars. TikTok

While many areas are accessible, the unique nature of shipping container structures might present some challenges. It's recommended to contact specific businesses directly for detailed accessibility information. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter the Cargo District itself. It's an open urban area with various businesses. You'll purchase tickets or pay for individual experiences within the district. TikTok

The Cargo District is an open area, but individual businesses have their own operating hours. It's crucial to check the specific hours for shops, restaurants, and bars you plan to visit. Reddit

Entrance to the Cargo District is free. However, individual attractions like The Rift speakeasy or specific shops may have their own entry requirements or cover charges, especially for live music events. TikTok+1

Many businesses in the Cargo District operate on holidays, but hours may be adjusted. It's always best to confirm with individual establishments beforehand. TikTok

While there isn't one single information center, the Cargo District's social media accounts often share updates and event information. Following them can keep you informed. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Cargo District boasts a diverse culinary scene, including an outdoor food court with empanadas, sushi, and acai bowls. You'll also find burger joints, cocktail bars, and more. TikTokInstagram+2

Options vary by vendor. The outdoor food court and various restaurants often have diverse menus that include vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment. TikTok

Popular spots include the outdoor food court vendors like I Love Empanadas, Mess Hall for burgers, and Alcove Beer Garden for food and drinks. TikTokInstagram+3

Yes, the Cargo District has several bars and breweries, including The Rift speakeasy, End of Days Distillery, and Alcove Beer Garden, offering a wide range of beverages. TikTokInstagram+4

The outdoor food court is excellent for groups as everyone can choose from different vendors, catering to various tastes. It offers a casual and communal dining experience. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The unique shipping container architecture itself is a great subject. Look for colorful murals, the entrance to The Rift speakeasy, and the film legacy exhibit for memorable shots. TikTokInstagram+2

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses, especially if it might disrupt other patrons. TikTok+1

The Cargo District offers a variety of backdrops for portraits, from industrial chic to vibrant street art. The unique structures provide an urban and modern feel. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting. However, the district is vibrant throughout the day and evening, offering different photographic opportunities. TikTok

There are no general restrictions on personal photography within the public areas of the Cargo District. However, commercial photography may require permits. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cargo District offers a family-friendly environment, especially during the day. The Rift speakeasy is welcoming to children until 8 PM, providing a fun atmosphere with games and entertainment. TikTok

The outdoor food court is a great option for families, allowing everyone to choose their preferred meal. Exploring the unique shops can also be an engaging activity for children, offering a different kind of shopping experience. TikTok+1

Consider visiting during daylight hours to make the most of the accessible areas and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before it transitions to a more adult-focused nightlife scene.

🍻 Couples & Date Nights

The Cargo District is an ideal spot for date nights, offering a blend of unique dining and entertainment. Explore speakeasy bars like The Rift for a fun, hidden-gem experience, or enjoy craft cocktails at The Starling or End of Days Distillery. TikTokInstagram+3

Enjoy dinner at one of the diverse eateries in the outdoor food court or at a sit-down restaurant like Alcove Beer Garden. Many venues feature live music, creating a romantic and lively ambiance. Instagram+2

🛍️ Shoppers & Explorers

For those who love to discover unique finds, the Cargo District is a treasure trove. Browse through boutique shops offering jewelry, custom items, and artisanal goods. TikTok+1 Don't miss the independent bookstore housed in a shipping container for a truly unique browsing experience. TikTok

Beyond retail, the district's architecture itself is an attraction. Wander through the area, admire the repurposed shipping containers, and discover hidden corners and art installations. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Architecture of Shipping Containers

The Cargo District is a prime example of innovative urban development, transforming industrial shipping containers into functional and stylish spaces. This approach not only offers a unique aesthetic but also promotes sustainability by repurposing materials. TikTokInstagram

Each container is adapted to house a variety of businesses, from intimate boutiques and art studios to bustling restaurants and bars. This creates a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape where creativity thrives. Visitors can explore everything from tattoo parlors and jewelry stores to bookstores and arcades, all within this distinctive architectural framework. TikTokInstagram+2

The design emphasizes a modern, industrial-chic vibe, with many businesses embracing the raw aesthetic of the containers while adding their own creative touches. This makes the Cargo District a visually engaging destination, perfect for those seeking a different kind of urban exploration. Instagram

A Hub for Local Businesses and Artisans

The Cargo District serves as a vibrant incubator for local entrepreneurs and artisans in Wilmington. It provides a platform for small businesses to establish a presence and connect with the community. TikTok+1

You can find a diverse range of shops here, including unique boutiques selling jewelry, custom-made items, and even shark tooth-inspired pieces. TikTok There's also a dedicated bookstore that transformed a shipping container into a cozy reading nook, showcasing the district's commitment to diverse retail experiences. TikTok

Beyond retail, the district is a hotspot for local food vendors and service providers, such as wax studios and private gyms, further diversifying the offerings and making it a comprehensive destination for locals and visitors alike. TikTok+1

Entertainment and Nightlife

The Cargo District comes alive after dark with a variety of entertainment options. The Rift, a speakeasy bar hidden behind a refrigerator door, is a major draw, offering pool tables, live music, and a unique atmosphere. TikTok+2

Other venues like Alcove Beer Garden and The Starling Bar provide more traditional bar experiences with craft cocktails, local beers, and often live music. Instagram+3 Salsa Sundays at The Starling offer a free outdoor dance event, adding a lively cultural element to the district's nightlife. Instagram

With its diverse range of bars and entertainment spots, the Cargo District is a popular destination for those looking for a fun and engaging night out in Wilmington. TikTokInstagram

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