Lately, I’ve been surfing a wave of homesickness for Wilmington. I miss everything—the food, the shopping, the beach. And oh my gosh, do I ever miss my mama! Fortunately, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade came along like a golden ticket, luring me back home for the day.

So, what’s a Wilmington day trip like for a crew of locals? Good question! Down below is everything we got into while we were home for the day. Enjoy!

A Wilmington Day Trip

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The whole point of our trip was marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and it was our first stop. We linked up with Clan Cochrane, swapped smiles with a few Where the Dogwood Blooms fans, and tossed out necklaces to the cheering crowd.

It was a blast beyond words, and I’m crossing my fingers we’ll get the nod to return next year.

Fish House

After the parade, we made a beeline for Mama’s house, where I finally got to put my arms around the real queen. After catching up, we jumped in the car and headed to the Fish House for lunch.

If you’ve never been, you need to add it to your list of Wilmington MUSTS. Sit dockside. Order the fried green tomatoes and a po’boy. You can thank me later. 😉

Redix

We ate until we about popped, and then headed onto the island for a little shopping. Where did we end up? Redix.

Y’all! Redix is a cornerstone of Wrightsville Beach. It’s been around since Mama was a little girl.

Step inside, and it’s a tale of two sides. To the left, the tourist trove: Wrightsville Beach hoodies, shot glasses, and beach gear galore. To the right, a local’s haven—name-brand beachwear you’d be hard-pressed to track down anywhere else.

I’ve been visiting this place since before I can even remember. I can still picture myself as a kid, darting in to grab beach toys, or in high school, popping by for snacks. Now, as an adult, it’s my go-to for stocking up on Southern Tide shorts and Vineyard Vines polos.

Dairy Queen

I noticed the afternoon shadows stretching when I loaded the bags in the car, so I squeezed Mama goodbye and aimed the car towards 87.

But I couldn’t peel out of town without a Dairy Queen detour. Sure, Dairy Queen’s no North Carolina exclusive, but that Oleander spot? I’ve been enjoying treats in their parking lot since I was pint-sized. The truth is: something about a blue raspberry Misty Float just hits different in Seagate. IYKYK.

And with that frosty cup in hand, I rolled down the highway, heart full and homesickness soothed—at least for now.