Historic Airlie Gardens encompasses 67 acres of beautiful Gilded Age gardens and lakes. Admire the azaleas, gaze at the camellias, and stand in the shade of the historic Airlie Oak tree, which dates back to The New Hanover County Arboretum lies on almost seven acres of land with beautiful educational gardens. As you explore and walk the cypress and pine covered trails of the Bluethenthal Wildflower Preserve , marvel at the insect consumption of pitcher plants or relax to a symphony of songbirds.
This quiet nature sanctuary is a pure delight in the midst of University of North Carolina Wilmington, making it a perfect escape for midtown locals and visitors alike. This acre park features the Althea Gibson Tennis Complex with 24 tennis courts and a clubhouse, multiple outdoor basketball courts, a large dog park equipped with a canopy and benches, and a large playground suitable for children of all ages.
In addition, Empie Park also offers shelters with picnic tables, horseshoe pits and even has part of the Gary Shell Cross City Trail going around the park. With acres, Greenfield Park is one of the best spots for a variety of outdoor activities. Kids can enjoy the open space and playgrounds while adults can sit back and relax in picnic areas, shelters or even fry up some food with the grills.
Long Leaf Park is made up of several intertwining paved trails lined with lush green grass perfect for riding your bike, walking or running. Long Leaf Park is also equipped for sporting events with four soccer fields and three softball fields which are both lighted. The park also has a large on-site parking lot and shelters for anyone who just wants to sit and relax.
Nestled in the northern end of the city is Ogden Park. With a dog park and a winding nature trail around a serene pond, the park is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon with family and friends. The park also is outfitted with shelters and an off-road trail through the woods. This ADA accessible passive park on 29 acres of land features a concrete walking trail, wooden observation decks and a collection of native carnivorous plants such as pitcher plants and Venus flytraps.
