Avelo—a super affordable airline based in Houston, Texas—offers flights out of the Wilmington Airport to multiple palm-dotted locations and historic southern towns filled with charm. Saving on airfare means more to spend on luxury hotels, upscale dining and unforgettable experiences. Our travel guide is complete with every destination offered, as well as major attractions, ideas of tours to book and where to stay.
If you’re looking for travel inspiration, here’s a look at the affordable vacation flights Delawareans can take without the hassle of going to an out-of-state airport.
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Nashville, TN
Things to Do: While it may be known as the country music capital of the world, Music City has branched out to house studios in all genres, from blues and rock to pop and hip-hop. Nashville may be a new addition for Avelo, but it’s sure to become one of the most popular destinations from the Wilmington Airport. Enjoy exhibits and museums like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Music City Walk of Fame and the studios of Music Row, where some of the most iconic American music was recorded, from Elvis Presley to Foo Fighters.
Nightlife is no joke in Nashville! Music City is home to honkytonk bars galore, as well as night clubs, dives and everything in between. You’ll find live music at nearly every bar every night of the week. Printers Alley is lined with bars and nightclubs that once served as a showcase for talents like Chet Atkins, Hank Williams and Jimi Hendrix. Today, you can still find live acts seven days a week at bars like Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar, Skull’s Rainbow Room and Alley Taps.
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Places to Stay: For an upscale boutique hotel experience, Dream Nashville at Printer’s Alley is a great choice. If you want to experience the fun nightlife, this swanky stay rests right in the middle of it all. If you’re in it for a more relaxing getaway filled with historic tours, 1 Hotel Nashville is right up your alley. With sustainable luxury in the heart of Nashville, you can enjoy a nature-inspired stay and a short walk to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Raleigh, NC
Things to Do: Raleigh is the perfect blend of modern meets historic and urban meets southern charm. You can see one of the world’s oldest operating amusement park carousels and one of the most advanced libraries in the world. For nature enthusiasts, Juniper Level Botanic Garden has an unmatched collection with thousands of plant species. The city is also home to both the Southeast’s largest natural science museum and the North Carolina Museum of History. For foodies, check out one of Chef Ashley Christensen’s award-winning restaurants. As the only James Beard Award winner in North Carolina, Christensen has a diverse portfolio of eateries from southern comfort food to pizza and cocktail bars. Plus, experience the massive North Caroline State Fair in October to mark the official beginning of fall.
Places to Stay: For a one-of-a-kind experience, stay in the historic Italianate style mansion known as Heights House Hotel. Previously Montfort Hall, the house was commissioned in 1858 by William Montfort Boylan on the highest point in Boylan Heights. Rather than a traditional hotel lobby experience, you can enjoy historic spaces like a classic library, parlor, drawing room and dining room.
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Wilmington, NC
Things to Do: Wilmington is home to some of North Carolina’s most popular tourist attractions. From historic experiences like exploring the decks of a World War II Battleship to immaculate southern gardens and beaches, there’s something for everyone at this destination, which just so happens to be a short flight from the Wilmington Airport. Take the family for a day of water fun and other activities at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Or, enjoy a weekend at Carolina Beach.
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Places to Stay: If it’s southern charm you’re after, look no further than The Verandas Bed and Breakfast. Originally built in 1853, the mansion has undergone several full renovations to offer all the charm of a historic estate and the comfort of modern amenities. Nestled in the beautiful historic district, it offers guests full access to the riverfront and museums. If you’re looking for a beach stay, there are plenty of hotels overlooking Carolina Beach, and Shell Island Resort is a 25-minute Uber ride from the airport.
Myrtle Beach, SC
Things to Do: Myrtle Beach is an iconic vacation destination that needs no introduction. With 60 miles of sandy beaches, family-friendly fun, nightlife and more, it’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway from the Wilmington Airport. From Ripley’s Aquarium to Myrtle Waves Waterpark to the SkyWheel on the boardwalk, there’s no shortage of waterside fun to be had.
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Places to Stay: Traveling with a group? The Darlington Inn & Cottages are right across from the boardwalk and offer units that sleep up to 10 people with amenities like full kitchens, bathrooms, multiple bedrooms and private balconies or porches. For the full resort experience, try the Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort with an oceanfront beach bar, onsite café, waterpark for kids and so much more.
Charleston, SC
Things to Do: Charleston is a great destination for history lovers flying out of the Wilmington Airport. If you want to immerse yourself in rich coastal culture and experience American history, there are many options throughout Charleston from plantation tours to historic churches, ships and the first successful submarine. Plus, the International African American Museum is a must-see. With so much history, there’s bound to be some ghostly legends. You can experience haunted locations like an old ship or an old jail with ghost tours. If that’s not your speed, you can also dig into the flavors of Charleston with a food tour.
Places to Stay: For the full Charleston experience, a historic stay is ideal. The John Rutledge House Inn is a great option. Built in 1763 by John Rutledge, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, this stay is historic and charming while still providing the comfort of modern amenities. For a luxurious boutique stay, check out the French Quarter Inn, Charleston’s most award-winning hotel.
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Greenville/Spartanburg, SC
Things to Do: Fly out of the Wilmington Airport to a South Carolina airport nestled between two great southern cities. In fact, Greenville was listed in Southern Living magazine as one of the south’s best cities on the rise. Plus, the area is full of fun outdoor experiences, gorgeous bodies of water and plenty of parks and hiking. Green River Gorge is one of the most popular area attractions, about 40 minutes from the airport. If you’re an outdoor thrill-seeker, check out Green River Adventures for activities like waterfall treks and rappels, white water kayaking, ziplining and more.
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Places to Stay: We can’t help but recommend a glamping trip for this one. If it’s the great outdoors you want to experience, why not try a Vrbo cabin stay like Miss Jo’s Remote Cabin? Looking for an unforgettable unique experience? Stay in a 1972 Historic Railroad Caboose that was renovated to become a gorgeous vacation home, complete with a rooftop lounge and fire pit.
Savannah, GA
Things to Do: When it comes to charming southern getaways, it’s hard to beat Savannah. Enjoy art, period architecture, cuisine straight from the coast and so much soul. Take a stroll down Savannah’s historic River Street to enjoy the waterfront. Walk the historic cobblestone streets to experience history firsthand. Enjoy fresh seafood, historic landmarks, plenty of shopping and more. For the best views of the city, try a visit to one of Savannah’s many rooftop bars. For a fun beach experience, spend a day at Tybee Island, just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah.
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Places to Stay: To experience the history and charm, a historic stay like The Gastonian is a must. The gorgeous historic mansion is awash with luxury and grandeur. It’s made up of two 1860s mansions which house 15 guest rooms and two premium suites. Or, book a stay right on historic River Street at the charming River Street Inn.
Daytona Beach, FL
Things to Do: Daytona Beach is a great vacation destination from the Wilmington Airport. From outdoor activities like hiking and beaches to night life and upscale dining, there’s so much to enjoy. It’s also a racing capital, and the Speedway Track Tour is a fun way to spend an hour. Looking to explore coastal nature? Book a half-day Dolphin and Manatee Paddle Board Tour. At the end of the day, immerse yourself in Daytona Beach’s plentiful nightlife at bars, clubs, breweries and more.
Places to Stay: Daytona is a tourist center and home to plenty of great hotels. Book a room at the Hard Rock hotel to experience beachfront views, plenty of amenities and live outdoor music on weekends.
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Orlando, FL
Things to Do: There’s no lack of fun to be had in Orlando. The Florida city is home to over a dozen theme parks. Theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld and the Universal Orlando Resort allow you to center a whole vacation around theme park exploration. With the new Hogwarts video game making waves, it’s the perfect time to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando.
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Places to Stay: Orlando’s multitude of theme parks and resorts offer plenty of stay options. There are many Disney Resort hotels including fun, kid-friendly hotels and luxurious villas.
Tampa, FL
Things to Do: A Tampa Bay vacation is full of history and culture, thanks to the region’s many museums, zoos and aquariums. Tampa is also home to many Michelin-recipient restaurants, a number of which specialize in the Cuban and Spanish influences that color the area.
Enjoy a stroll in one of the many urban parks, including the Tampa Riverwalk. Plus, the Busch Gardens theme park offers 300 acres of attractions like thrilling rides, a zoo with more than 12,000 animals, live shows, games and more. For more fun, enjoy outdoor adventures like a guided ziplining experience or kayaking at Hillsborough River State Park just outside the city.
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Places to Stay: Tampa has many options for stays, including the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The Seminole is one of the largest casinos in the country and a resort featuring a luxurious spa, fine dining options, three pools and more. If you want to go the boutique hotel route, Hotel Haya is just minutes from Downtown Tampa and offers a soulful stay in a historic part of the city.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Things to Do: After jetting out of the Wilmington Airport, enjoy a 24-mile span of golden beaches and blue waters in Fort Lauderdale. Grab a table at beach eateries ranging from upscale seafood and classy Italian restaurants to taquerias and pizzerias. There’s plenty to do at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park including kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking and more. Feeling romantic? Book a relaxing cruise on an authentic Italian gondola to experience the “Venice of America,” filled with mansion-lined waterways.
If you’re looking for a tranquil beach day, try spending an afternoon at Hillsboro Beach, about 30 minutes from central Fort Lauderdale. This peninsula spans three miles in length and just 900 feet in width, leaving you surrounded by beautiful ocean. Climb the stairs of the historic lighthouse for astounding ocean views, and keep an eye out for sea turtles! Hillsboro Beach has one of the highest densities of sea turtle nests along Florida’s East Coast.
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Places to Stay: For the full resort experience, Pelican Grand Beach Resort offers everything you need for an easy and fun getaway. From elegant beachfront dining to relaxing lazy river and spa experiences, this resort is perfect for a soothing weekend away. The North Beach Village Resort is a collection of 12 different boutique hotel properties, including Aqua Hotel. Aqua is close to beaches, great restaurants and plenty of nightlife.
Fort Myers, FL
Things to Do: As this charming beach city rebuilds after the effects of Hurricane Ian, there are many ways to experience and enjoy Fort Myers, and businesses are eager to welcome tourists this season.
Outdoor fun includes shelling and fishing along the white beaches and exploring the islands off the coast. Captiva Island and Sanibel are both perfect destinations for outdoors enthusiasts with plenty of biking and hiking trails, sailing and many other outdoor activities. History enthusiasts can visit the Edison and Ford Winter Estates to see the historic winter vacation homes of these two innovators and learn more about their lives and influence.
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Places to Stay: Enjoy the full resort and spa experience at Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort and Spa. This waterfront hotel overlooks Sanibel and Captiva Island, so visitors can enjoy all the fun outdoors activities these islands offer.
West Palm Beach, FL
Things to Do: If art and culture are what you’re after, look no further than West Palm Beach. With a world-renowned art museum, Broadway-quality shows and a historic district known for antiquing, this Florida city is the perfect destination for those with refined tastes. Antique Row is filled with charm, offering art galleries, award-winning restaurants and over 40 antique shops to explore.
For nightlife and entertainment, just take a walk down Clematis Street. If beaches and wildlife are more your speed, visit Manatee Lagoon to learn all about wild manatees and enjoy seasonal viewings.
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Places to Stay: The Breakers Palm Beach is the perfect resort hotel to experience West Palm Beach after an escape from the Wilmington Airport. With amenities like onsite dining, pools and a spa, the hotel has a little something for everyone. To stay within walking distance of all the nightlife and entertainment of the strip, book a room at The Ben, Autograph Collection hotel, just a block away. With a rooftop lounge and views of the Palm Harbor Marina, you’re sure to feel all the luxury you expect from a vacation stay.
Sarasota, Florida
Things to Do: Days in the sun at award-winning beaches, a culinary experience and exciting nightlife await in Sarasota. One of the main draws is Siesta Beach. Quartz-crystal sand and blue waters are the perfect backdrop for your next vacation from Delaware.
Places to Stay: Stay right on the pristine beach at the Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites, located across the street from exclusive beach access, nightlife, shops, restaurants and more. Complete with a tiki lounge and zero-entry pool, this is an ideal resort vacation and a short flight from the Wilmington Airport.
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San Juan, Puerto Rico
Things to Do: San Juan is the beating heart of history and culture in Puerto Rico. Enjoy this fascinating fusion between the Old World and the new with historic sites, nightlife, shopping, dining and more. Visit impressive citadels completed in the 1700s. El Morro, a citadel which became a six-level fortress designed to protect the island from seafaring attackers, has seen many battles over the centuries and is now a National Parks museum. A great use of a day in Puerto Rico is a walking tour, complete with local insight, and even food and cocktails on certain tour options.
Places to Stay: A popular way to experience Puerto Rico is via a seaside resort like The Royal Sonesta, which includes amenities like a lagoon-style pool with a swim-up bar and onsite dining options. For a more intimate stay, and to immerse yourself in local culture, San Juan has a network of 13 family-owned hotels known as paradores. Highlighting the history, cuisine and cultural diversity of the island, paradores can be found close to attractions like Guanicca’s Dry Forest, Playuela beach and wildlife reserves at which visitors can hike, snorkel, paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful nature of Puerto Rico.
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Book a flight at flyilg.com.
Related: Avelo Airlines Provides Low-Cost Vacation Flights Out of Wilmington
