Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour

Wilmington’s history, hauntings, and riverfront landmarks, capped off with visits to local craft breweries

Experience Wilmington the unforgettable way on an e-bike tour of its history, haunts and breweries, where local legends are blended with defining history and incredible views. Effortlessly cruise the streets and waterfront on an electric bike whilst uncovering stories of pirates, pioneers, and the spirits said to still wander the historic port city.

Your day tour of discovery begins with a bike ride along Wilmington’s famous Riverwalk, a lively wooden promenade stretching nearly two miles along the Cape Fear River. With its old warehouses now transformed into boutiques and cafes, the Riverwalk promises sweeping river views with every pedal and the perfect introduction to the city.

Just upriver stands the legendary site of the Dram Tree, where sailors once poured a final dram of rum for safe passage along the river. Although the original tree has long since gone, Dram Tree Park preserves the story and its ties to Wilmington’s colorful seafaring past.

Bike onwards through Oakdale Cemetery, Wilmington’s oldest rural burial ground dating back to 1852. With its elaborate Victorian monuments and shady oak-lined paths, it’s a hauntingly beautiful stop that tells the stories of notable citizens, soldiers, and local heroes.

Your bicycle tour then continues to the Bellamy Mansion, an architectural wonder completed in the 1850s that features a complex history - that of the wealthy Bellamy family that’s inextricably linked with the enslaved people who worked there.

The bike ride then moves on to the 1898 Memorial, commemorating the victims of the only successful coup d’etat in United States history, when Wilmington’s elected government was violently overthrown.

From there, cycle past Thalian Hall, one of the oldest still-operating theaters in the nation. Since opening in 1858, it’s hosted countless performances and is also famous for the haunting tales of bygone actors still lingering in its wings.

Your electric bike tour then explores the history of the massive Battleship North Carolina, a decorated World War II vessel permanently docked on the Cape Fear River. Once known as the ‘Showboat’, it now serves as a floating museum and memorial to those who served while offering one of the best views of Wilmington’s skyline.

Of course, your tour also includes first-hand insight into Wilmington’s thriving craft beer scene, with visits to local favorites including Hi-Wire Brewing, known for its playful sours and lagers; Edward Teach Brewery, set inside a historic firehouse with a nod to the infamous pirate Blackbeard; Waterline Brewing, located under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge; Ponysaurus Brewing, offering inventive flavors with a funky, laid-back vibe, and more. Whether you’re after a crisp lager, bold IPA, or seasonable brew, these stops add the perfect local flavor to your historic pedaling adventure.