Southport Pier and Riverwalk
Walk up the Southport Pier for the best vantage point on the city before heading over to Waterfront Park, going on the swings and eating ice cream. Then, follow the Riverwalk Trail west along Bay Street towards a small yachting marina. Wooden signs mark your way past Ibis, raptors, and terns.
North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport
Southport's Maritime Museum is one of a trio in North Carolina. This branch homes in on history in the lower Cape Fear River, which involves shipwrecks, pirates, hurricanes, and the Civil War. The partner museums are located in Hatteras and Beaufort and complete the picture.
Fort Johnson
Dating back to 1745, this military stronghold at the mouth of Cape Fear River has a long and winding history. It played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War but was even used as a bakery during the subsequently peaceful antebellum period. Today, it stands as a fascinating relic of American history.
Southport Marina
Yachts sway gently in the marina at Southport which is something of a cultural Mecca in the city. Events are run from the superb clubhouse, surrounded by bars and restaurants, but naturally, it's all about chartering your own craft and heading out onto the water to fish for flounder and red drum.
Old Brunswick County Jail Museum
Free tours articulate the history of this venerable prison, but that's just one of the stops on the Walking Tour of Southport. Each cell has four bunks, a commode, and wash basin and comes complete with iron bars. Check out the graffiti by prisoners that still mark its walls.
