Reserve Your Room!
A special room rate of $179/night has been negotiated at the Hotel Ballast for the Carolinas Planned Giving Conference. This rate is available until April 9, 2026 or until the hotel block is sold out. After that date any accommodations will be based on availability and the prevailing rate at the time of booking.
Why Hotel Ballast?
-
Waterfront Location: Nestled right on the Cape Fear River, the Ballast offers sweeping views, easy access to riverfront dining, and a charming promenade—perfect for informal meet-ups and evening strolls.
-
Modern Meeting Spaces: State-of-the-art ballrooms and breakout rooms ensure every session—from large-scale keynotes to intimate workshops—runs smoothly and comfortably.
-
On-site Amenities: Enjoy refined Southern hospitality with an upscale restaurant, rooftop lounge, fitness center, and easy valet parking.
About Wilmington
Nestled between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Wilmington blends historic charm with coastal cool—making it a perfect backdrop for exploration, dining, and sun-soaked fun.
Things to Do
Battleship North Carolina
Tour this World War II battleship—now a floating museum docked on the Cape Fear River
Airlie Gardens
Stroll through 67 acres of lush gardens, century-old oaks, and seasonal art installations
Riverwalk & River District
Wander the scenic boardwalk, browse boutiques, and sip cocktails with a waterfront view
Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
Perfect for families: water slides, go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade thrills
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Catch a live play, concert, or film in one of the nation’s oldest theaters still in use
Dining Highlights
Wilmington’s culinary scene serves everything from Southern classics to global flavors:
22 North (Wrightsville Beach) — Creole-inspired coastal cuisine just off the beach wilmington-nc.com
River 128 — Fresh seafood and sunset views right on the Riverwalk
Savorez — Venezuelan tapas and creative cocktails in the heart of downtown
Genki Sushi — Conveyor-belt sushi meets waterfront vibes
The Peppered Cupcake — Decadent desserts that draw lines down the block Tripadvisor
Beaches & Coastal Escapes
Just minutes from downtown, four unique shorelines await:
Wrightsville Beach — Surf-friendly waves, beachside bars, and a vibrant dining scene
Carolina Beach — Classic boardwalk fun, amusement rides, and salt-water taffy
Kure Beach — Laid-back vibes, an award-winning aquarium, and Fort Fisher historic site
Masonboro Island — A pristine, undeveloped barrier island accessible by boat for a true “wild beach” experience