Driving Time between Apex, North Carolina and Wilmington, North Carolina

A picture depicting driving

Road Trip from Apex to Wilmington - The Ultimate Guide

Looking for a fun-filled road trip from Apex to Wilmington? You're in luck! This scenic route is filled with picturesque towns, stunning coastline and plenty of places to visit along the way. But before you hit the road, let's explore the different routes and driving times to help you plan your itinerary.

Route options

There are different routes you can take from Apex to Wilmington - each with its unique attractions and driving times. The most popular are:

Route 1: The I-40 East

This route is the fastest and most direct, taking you eastwards along the I-40 for approximately 123 miles. The drive time is approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic. Along the way, you'll pass through Raleigh, the state capital, and continue on to the Sea Breeze bridge, before arriving in Wilmington.

Route 2: The US-421 South

This route takes you southwards along the US-421 for approximately 143 miles, with a driving time of around 3 hours. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns and historic sites, including Clinton, where the film "A Walk to Remember" was shot, and the historic downtown of Burgaw.

Route 3: The I-40 East/NC-24 East

This route is a little longer, but you'll be rewarded with stunning coastal views along the beautiful NC-24. The drive time is around 3 hours, taking you through Jacksonville and Hampstead before arriving in Wilmington.

Attractions to visit along the way

No road trip is complete without some pit stops to explore the sights and attractions along the way. Here are some recommendations of places to visit:

  • Wrightsville Beach: hit the beach, surf the waves and soak up the sun at this popular destination.
  • Battleship North Carolina: tour this iconic World War II battleship and experience history come to life.
  • Kornerstone Bistro: grab a bite to eat at this cozy bistro in downtown Burgaw, serving up Southern hospitality and fresh local cuisine.
  • Sleepy Creek Vineyards: take a break from the drive and enjoy a winery tour in this beautiful vineyard in Dudley, NC.

Tips for the drive

Before you hit the road, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Check for traffic updates: the roads can get busy, especially during peak hours, so be sure to check traffic updates and plan accordingly.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: road trips are much more enjoyable with some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled along the way.
  • Bring a map: although GPS is widely available, it's always helpful to bring a map as backup.

Final thoughts

If you're looking for a fun-filled road trip filled with adventure and stunning scenery, the drive from Apex to Wilmington is the perfect getaway. With different routes to choose from and plenty of attractions to visit en route, you're sure to have an unforgettable time. So pack your bags, hit the road and experience all that North Carolina has to offer!