Visiting Wilmington? Hit up these places

WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament is happening this week at Eagle Point Golf Club in Wilmington, but there is a lot more than golf to enjoy. Wilmington has beaches, restaurants, tours and even some exotic animals.

Hollywood Location Walk - This 90-minute tour explores locations used in your favorite films and TV shows. Hundreds of productions have been filmed in Wilmington, including "Dawson's Creek," "Iron Man 3" and "The Secret Life of Bees."

Self-Guided Film and TV tour - Take your own tour around Wilmington to see the places where your favorite films and TV shows were shot. This list from the Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau contains popular places and which films were shot there.

Battleship North Carolina - Take a self-guided tour of this nine-level refurbished WWII battleship.

Cape Fear Serpentarium - Located in downtown Wilmington, this museum showcases the world's rarest and most dangerous snakes, crocodiles, lizards and more.

Airlie Gardens - You can hike the trails or ride a tram to discover this 67-acre garden. It feature more than 100 azaleas, a more than 465 year old Airlie Oak tree and a permanent butterfly house.

Venus Flytraps - The Venus flytrap grows naturally within a 75 to 100 mile radius of Wilmington. You can see them blooming in May at Carolina Beach State Park.

The Cotton Exchange - Located in the River District, this collection of eight restored buildings house 30 unique shops and restaurants.

Chandler's Wharf- Located in downtown Wilmington, this century-old building boasts a mix of galleries and shops, including one devoted to Christmas.

Bitty & Beau's Coffee (4949 New Centre Dr.) - This is more than just a coffee shop. This popular cafe is run by people with intellectual disabilities. We were so in love with this shop and its staff that WRAL.com did its first online series about them.

Fork n Cork (122 Market St.) - Known for its burgers (check out the lamb and duck burgers on the menu), this hot spot also serves up a much hailed brunch on the weekends.

Blue Surf Cafe (250 Racine Dr.) - This fast casual restaurant offers gluten free and vegetarian options. It is known for its tasty breakfast and brunch options.

Copper Penny (109 Chestnut St.) - This pub serves up sandwiches (including cheesesteaks and shrimp po' boys) and wings.

PinPoint Restaurant (114 Market St.) - This restaurant serves up fresh seafood and sandwiches. Definitely try the Butterbean Hummus.

Indochine (7 Wayne Drive) - In the mood for something off the beaten path? This Thai restaurant is a favorite among locals. Ask to sit outside in one of the booths in the garden.