Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Whiteville, NC

  • Published 2022/08/18

The state of North Carolina is a thriving vacation destination located in the southeastern region of the United States.

Likewise, it has beautiful beaches, charming mountain towns, and abundance of things to do.

Whiteville is a city in Columbus County and one of North Carolina’s hidden and we-treasured destinations.

This city may be small compared to other North Carolina staples like Charlotte and Raleigh, but it packs a hefty punch.

Whiteville has no shortage of attractions that range from museums to outdoor activities to historic landmarks and famous restaurants.

No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something to do in Whiteville.

From exploring the great outdoors to learning about the state’s rich history, there is something for everyone in Whiteville.

Here are the best things to do in Whiteville, North Carolina:

Walk to the Columbus County Courthouse

Exterior of Columbus County Courthouse

gerrydincher, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Besides holding county business, the Columbus County Courthouse is also a historical landmark.

Built in 1915, the courthouse is one of the oldest courthouses in North Carolina.

Regarding design, the courthouse is a beautiful example of the Neoclassical Revival style of architecture.

The courthouse features a large portico with Corinthian columns.

The Columbus County Courthouse has undergone several renovations, but its design remains the same.

Just looking at the architecture of the building is enough to make it worth the visit.

The courthouse also sits next to other historical buildings, making it the perfect place to start your exploration of Whiteville.

Explore Exhibits at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is one of the best things to do in Whiteville.

Located in downtown Whiteville, the museum has several permanent and temporary exhibits that will pique your interest.

The museum features exhibits that showcase Science and Nature and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of North Carolina.

You can take a guided or unguided tour throughout the building.

The museum also has several interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids.

Some of the museum’s most popular exhibits include the “Fossil Dig,” “Dueling Dinosaurs,” “Life Before Dinosaurs,” and “Wheels Through Time.”

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re interested in learning about the state’s natural history.

Experience Dining in the ’80s at Sonic Drive-in

Have you ever tried eating at a drive-in diner?

If not, you’re in for a treat when visiting Sonic Drive-in in downtown Whiteville.

Sonic Drive-in is a popular fast food chain specializing in American diner food.

This restaurant is unique because it’s one of the few drive-ins in the country.

When you go to a drive-in, you drive into a restaurant and have the food served in your car.

This is an excellent experience if you want to feel like you’re in a time warp and take a trip back to the 1980s.

The restaurant features various ’80s memorabilia, while the menu features classic Sonic dishes with an ’80s twist.

Some of the ’80s classic dishes you can find at Sonic Drive-in include their iconic burgers, club sandwiches, milkshakes, and fries.

If you’re looking for a fun and unique dining experience in Whiteville, you must check out Sonic Drive-in.

Spend Some Time at Edgewood Park

Whiteville has several parks and recreation areas, but Edgewood Park is one of the best.

Edgewood Park is a beautiful four-acre nature park with a baseball field, outdoor volleyball court, soccer fields, playground area, and several picnic places.

Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon picnic with your family or relax while observing the residents, go to Edgewood Park.

The park is also great for dog walks.

Since it’s downtown, you can also access other nearby attractions.

If you’re looking for fresh air and enjoy the outdoors, then go to Edgewood Park.

Watch a Baseball Game at Legion Field

Whiteville is a baseball town, and Legion Field is the premier location to watch a game.

This field hosts regular ball games, and you can even catch a local tournament in Whiteville.

Likewise, this field is the home of the Whiteville Wolfpack of Whiteville High School.

You can also catch some of their games and scrimmages when you visit Legion Field.

There’s also a snack station, so you can munch on favorites like hotdogs and popcorn while watching the game.

Other amenities within the stadium include public restrooms, seating for over 500 people, and a press box.

You can also find several souvenir shops selling Whiteville Wolfpack merchandise.

Legion Field is one of the best places to visit in Whiteville if you’re a baseball enthusiast.

Stay Active at the Columbus County Fitness Park

The Columbus County Fitness Park is the perfect place to do outdoor exercises and stay active while in Whiteville.

The fitness park has a wide range of equipment and activities that are perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Some amenities at the fitness park include a walking/jogging track, basketball courts, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and a playground.

There’s also a picnic pavilion for visitors who want to enjoy a meal or snack.

The Whiteville local government also hosts several fitness programs in the park.

Some programs include a 15-minute Kids Dance Fitness Workout, Full Body Workout for Teens, Cosmic Kids Yoga, 1.0 Mile Happy Walk, and Fitness Blender.

The Columbus County Fitness Park is the prime destination if you’re up for some physical activity while also exploring Whiteville’s local scene.

Make sure you check it out and have a blast while working up a sweat.

Play Golf at the Whiteville Country Club

Located along the James B White Highway, the Whiteville Country Club is the city’s premier golf course and club.

The Whiteville Country Club is a great place to enjoy a game of golf with friends or family.

This 18-hole, par 72 courses is perfect for players of all skill levels.

The course itself features a beautiful and lush landscape with several challenging holes.

There’s also a pro shop on-site if you need to stock up on some golfing gear.

You can still enjoy the course by paying the standard green fees if you’re not a member.

The club also offers several amenities for its members, including a souvenir shop, swimming pool, clubhouse, and dining facilities.

If you want to enjoy a round of golf in Whiteville, go to the Whiteville Country Club.

Meet Friendly Locals at the Columbus County Community Farmers Market

With a population of just under 5,400 people, Whiteville is a small and tight-knit community.

Unsurprisingly, the locals are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet.

You’ll meet more friendly locals visiting the Columbus County Community Farmers Market.

This place hums with people from all walks of life, so it’s the perfect place to mingle with the locals.

The farmer’s market is also great for fresh produce and other goods.

You’ll find a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more.

Add the Columbus County Community Farmers Market to your list of places to visit in Whiteville.

You’re sure to have a great time and meet some fantastic people there.

Buy Gifts and Souvenirs at the New Beginnings Boutique Consignment and Gifts

The New Beginnings Boutique Consignment and Gifts is the perfect place to buy gifts and souvenirs for your loved ones back home.

This clothing shop sells gently used clothes, accessories, and home decor at reasonable prices.

You’ll also find many new items, including jewelry, handbags, and more.

The accommodating staff at New Beginnings Boutique will also help you pick your desired item.

Most of their inventory comprises locally crafted products.

Not only are you buying something unique, but you’re also supporting the locals and their craft.

When looking for the perfect gift or souvenir, visit the New Beginnings Boutique Consignment and Gifts.

Experience European-style Dining at the Chef and the Frog

As unique as its name sounds, the Chef and the Frog is a must-visit restaurant in Whiteville.

This European-style restaurant offers a wide variety of menu items, including salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and more.

Some of their best-selling menu items include fried green tomatoes, French onion soup, Caesar salad, and Prince Willy’s quesadilla.

The atmosphere inside the restaurant also deserves a shoutout.

It’s cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming ambiance.

If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy a meal in Whiteville, then add the Chef and the Frog to your list.

Its combination of Italian and Asian dishes will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Buy Fresh Produce at the Robinson Produce Farms

The Robinson Produce Farms in downtown Whiteville is one of the city’s go-to spots for fresh produce.

This family-owned farm has operated for over 50 years.

Rest assured that they know what they’re doing.

The Robinson Produce Farms sells a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, all grown locally.

You’ll also find a great selection of local honey and jams.

The farm serves Whiteville and its neighboring areas, showing their dedication to providing the freshest produce possible.

Add Robinson Produce Farms to your Whiteville itinerary if you’re looking for a place to buy new and locally grown produce.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Hunt for Game at the Honey Hill Hunting Preserve

Honey Hill is a prime destination for those looking to go hunting.

You can find it in Hallsboro, North Carolina, 11 minutes from Whiteville.

The preserve offers various packages, including lodging, meals, and guides.

This is the perfect place to visit if you want a true outdoor adventure.

You’ll have the opportunity to hunt various game birds, including quails, chukars, pheasants, and more.

Honey Hill Hunting Preserve also offers a variety of hunting activities, such as tower hunts, field hunts, and dog training.

If you want to spend an entire weekend hunting, you can stay in one of their cozy lodge rooms.

The lodge rooms have a private bathroom, satellite TV, and Wi-Fi.

If you’re an avid hunter or want to try something new, go to the Honey Hill Hunting Preserve.

Spend a Day or Two at the Lake Waccamaw State Park

Lake Waccamaw is the majestic lake adjacent to Whiteville.

Its pristine and pleasant waters make it a perfect spot for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Lake Waccamaw State Park is the perfect destination to experience this lake at its finest.

This state park offers 8 miles of hiking trails, a playground, a picnic area, and much more.

It’s only 24 minutes from Whiteville.

If you want to stay for the weekend, pitch your tents at one of the several camping sites.

All of the campsites come with water and electrical hookups, as well as picnic tables and grills.

There’s even a visitor center featuring exhibits about the history and culture of the area.

If you want to enjoy all of Lake Waccamaw, then go to Lake Waccamaw State Park.

Learn about Railroad History at the Fair Bluff Depot Museum

Check out the area’s rich railroad history by visiting the Fair Bluff Depot Museum in Fair Bluff, North Carolina.

This museum is 25 minutes from Whiteville and is a great place to learn about railroads and their impact on the area.

The Fair Bluff Depot Museum features exhibits dedicated to the area’s railroad history.

You’ll also find a gift shop selling various railroad memorabilia.

Visitors can take guided tours or go on a self-guided tour of the museum.

You will learn a lot about the area’s railroad history.

The knowledgeable staff can also answer your questions about each exhibit and will show you around the museum.

If you’re interested in learning a piece of the area’s history, visit the Fair Bluff Depot Museum.

Go on a Wine Tasting Adventure at the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery

This vineyard offers various wine-tasting experiences, making it the perfect place to go for a day trip.

Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery has different kinds of wine-tasting packages, including a tour of the vineyard and a tasting of their locally-made wines.

The place is an absolute marvel in a secluded area near the Cape Fear River.

The vineyard and winery sit against the stunning backdrop of the North Carolina mountains.

If you want to stay for a day or two, or even an entire week, you can book a reservation at the on-site hotel.

This three-star hotel offers various amenities, including a fitness center and an outdoor pool.

If you’re looking for a unique vineyard that offers a unique experience, check out the Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery.

You can find this place in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, 30 minutes from Whiteville.

Final Thoughts

With its many different attractions, Whiteville is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or extended vacation.

It’s a quaint city offering many unique experiences you can only find there or nearby.

From hiking and camping to wine-tasting and exploring different museums, there’s something for everyone in Whiteville.

What are you waiting for?

Start planning your trip today and discover the best things to do in Whiteville, North Carolina.

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