Boiling Spring Lakes North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Boiling Spring Lakes, North Carolina.
1. Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve
NATURAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve spans over 6000 acres and features a bounty of rare flora and fauna, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. The preserve contains more than 400 vascular plant species, including the rare Venus Flytrap and various carnivorous plants. Visitors can explore the preserve via the Nature Trail which begins at the Community Center just off Highway 87.
2. Boiling Spring Lakes City Parks
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREAS
Boiling Spring Lakes City Parks are managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, offering recreational facilities and year-round programs for community enjoyment. The parks provide opportunities for fun, fellowship, wellness improvement, and educational experiences while fostering personal growth. Located at 1 Leeds Road, these facilities serve as central gathering spaces for local events and outdoor activities.
3. NC Birding Trail
AVIAN WATCHING PARADISE
The NC Birding Trail in Boiling Spring Lakes offers birdwatchers a chance to spot diverse species including Red-cockaded Woodpeckers, Brown-headed Nuthatches, and Summer Tanagers. This trail section runs through portions of the Boiling Spring Lakes Preserve, providing excellent habitat for both resident and migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy seasonal sightings of Blue Grosbeaks, Indigo Buntings, and various winter sparrows in their natural environment.
4. Broad River Greenway
SCENIC RIVERSIDE RECREATION
The Broad River Greenway offers visitors a beautiful natural setting along the banks of the Broad River with hiking and biking trails. This conservation area preserves the natural beauty of the river corridor while providing recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The greenway features picnic areas, fishing spots, and educational signage about local flora and fauna.
5. Cowpens National Battlefield
HISTORIC REVOLUTIONARY SITE
Cowpens National Battlefield preserves the site of the American victory during the Revolutionary War on January 17, 1781. The battlefield offers a visitor center with exhibits, a walking trail through the historic grounds, and regular interpretive programs. This important historical site commemorates the battle where General Daniel Morgan led American forces to defeat British troops under Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton.
6. Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theatre
ENTERTAINMENT AND DINING
Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theatre combines theatrical performances with fine dining for a complete entertainment experience. The venue presents a variety of shows including Broadway musicals, comedies, and special performances throughout the year. Visitors enjoy professional productions along with a meal service in an intimate setting near the Boiling Spring Lakes area.
7. Oak Island Lighthouse
HISTORIC COASTAL BEACON
The Oak Island Lighthouse stands as a distinctive navigational aid on the North Carolina coast near Boiling Spring Lakes. Built in 1958, the lighthouse features a unique design with three different colored horizontal bands rather than the traditional spiral pattern. Visitors can climb to the top by appointment for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding coastal areas.
8. Bald Head Island Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK
Bald Head Island Lighthouse, nicknamed 'Old Baldy,' is North Carolina's oldest standing lighthouse dating back to 1817. The lighthouse rises 110 feet and offers visitors who climb its 108 steps spectacular views of the island and surrounding waters. Old Baldy has guided mariners through the treacherous Frying Pan Shoals for over 200 years and now serves as a museum and historical attraction.
9. North Carolina Maritime Museum
COASTAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport showcases the maritime history and culture of the Lower Cape Fear region. Exhibits feature artifacts related to piracy, shipwrecks, navigation, and the area's natural environment including sea life displays. The museum offers educational programs, demonstrations, and special events that highlight the rich nautical heritage of coastal North Carolina.
10. Southport Waterfront Park
SCENIC HARBOR VIEWS
Southport Waterfront Park offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway with a picturesque fishing pier and swinging benches. The park serves as a gathering place for community events, festivals, and concerts throughout the year. Visitors can watch ships pass by, enjoy picnics under shade trees, and experience spectacular sunsets over the water.
11. Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Historic Site
COLONIAL AND CIVIL WAR HISTORY
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson Historic Site preserves the ruins of a colonial port town and Civil War fort along the Cape Fear River. The site features archaeological remains, interpretive displays, and a modern visitor center with exhibits spanning two significant periods in American history. Visitors can walk the grounds where colonial citizens once lived and later where Confederate soldiers defended the river during the Civil War.
12. North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
MARINE LIFE EXPLORATION
The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher showcases aquatic life from freshwater streams to the open ocean with diverse exhibits including a touch tank and large shark habitat. The aquarium features daily programs, behind-the-scenes tours, and interactive experiences that educate visitors about marine conservation. Special exhibits highlight the unique ecosystems of coastal North Carolina and the importance of protecting these valuable natural resources.
13. USS North Carolina Battleship
WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL
The USS North Carolina Battleship is a historic World War II vessel now permanently moored as a memorial and museum on the Cape Fear River. Visitors can explore nine levels of this impressive ship including gun turrets, crew quarters, engine rooms, and the bridge. The battleship earned 15 battle stars during World War II and today offers self-guided tours and special events honoring America's naval heritage.
14. Green Swamp Preserve
RARE ECOSYSTEM SANCTUARY
Green Swamp Preserve protects over 15,000 acres of unique pocosin wetlands and longleaf pine savannas near Boiling Spring Lakes. The preserve is home to numerous rare plant species including Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, and orchids found almost nowhere else in the world. Visitors can hike designated trails to witness the extraordinary biodiversity of this ecological treasure that represents one of the most significant natural areas in the southeastern United States.
15. Sunset Beach Pier
FISHING AND OCEAN VIEWS
Sunset Beach Pier extends 900 feet into the Atlantic Ocean offering fishing opportunities and spectacular coastal views. The pier features a bait shop, restaurant, and facilities for anglers seeking to catch seasonal fish species including flounder, king mackerel, and spot. Visitors enjoy strolling the wooden boardwalk for dolphin watching, bird spotting, and experiencing the magnificent sunsets that gave the beach its name.