Wilson offers a variety of experiences for its visitors. Local charm and graciousness decorate attractions both past and present. Wilson's past can be relived by walking down beautiful tree-lined streets of the commercial district and nearby neighborhoods of fine Southern homes, faithfully preserved. It's a breathtaking display in Spring with thousands of azaleas and dogwood trees in full bloom. A self-guided walking tour is the best way to experience all historic Wilson has to offer!

Wilson's rich history as a farm community is evident in its distinction as "America's Largest Tobacco Market." Market tours are available from July to November. Wilson celebrates its tobacco-rich heritage every September with the Golden Leaf Celebration. To find out more about this significant way of life in Eastern North Carolina, a visit to the nearby Tobacco Farm Life Museum is a must. Wilson's most valuable treasure is its reputation as the East Coast's largest antique center. Discover the abundant tradition of fine antiques in over two dozen shops and 250,000 square feet of exhibit space. Classic design furniture and accessories date back to the 11th century. Wilson is also one of the few places where you can purchase custom-made, hand built furniture.

Fun awaits both children and adults at Wilson's unique science museum. Located in downtown Wilson's former historic post office and courthouse, Imagination Station is a dynamic science and math learning center with more than 100 hands-on exhibits and a state of the art computer lab. The entire family can touch, spin, pet, climb, listen, look and learn in a fun environment!

After all this excitement and adventure, you're bound to have worked up an appetite. Wilson has long been known as "the" place to find Down East style, pork barbecue. A taste of Wilson's famous pit-cooked pork barbecue is a must. Folks come from all over the country to taste this famous regional delicacy.A famous landmark is Bill's Barbecue & Chicken Restaurant, the top North Carolina barbecue restaurant recognized in "Southern Living" Magazine. Whether you want to experience the delicious taste of slow-cooked, pork barbecue at an authentic pig pickin', Southern country cooking, or ethnic cuisine, Wilson brings it all to the table.

For recreation, parks and lakes allow for experiencing nature trails, boating, waterskiing and swimming. Golfers can unwind on the greens of four beautiful golf courses.

Wilson enjoys a busy schedule of cultural activities. It is home to a community theater and numerous cultural groups. The Wilson Arts Center, housed in a turn-of-the-century bank building, ranks with the finest art facilities in North Carolina.

Committed to educational excellence, economic growth and cultural fulfillment, Wilson is enriched by the citizens of the community. Wilson is truly a place where you will "Discover Our Treasures and Simple Pleasures".

Experience the preservation of Wilson's past with a self-guided tour throughout downtown historic Wilson. The tour takes you by impressive buildings, historic homes and handsome examples of 19th Century architecture. Contact the Wilson Downtown Development Corp. at (919) 399-2395 for a free brochure. Smell the aroma of the golden leaf while trying to keep up with the fast chanting auctioneer during one of Wilson's tobacco market tours. Markets are open from July to November. Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (919) 231-0165 for tour information.

Come out and enjoy the fun of regional stock car racing at Southern National Speedway. Races are held every Saturday night from April - October.

Wilson enjoys one of the strongest arts programs in North Carolina, with a full calendar of family-oriented entertainment, outstanding exhibits, great music, and touring dance and theatrical productions. For more information, contact the Arts Council of Wilson at (919) 291-4329. Wilson is home to Barton College and Wilson Technical Community College, adding lectures and performances to the menu of local activities. Life moves at a natural pace in Wilson. It's close enough to the fast lane to stimulate and challenge, but just far enough removed to relax and enjoy the abundant gifts of gracious living. In Wilson, the days unfold in quiet splendor against a backdrop of beautiful trees. There is magic here in all seasons. In the majesty of spring, when the azaleas and dogwoods are in bloom and the giant oaks come alive once more, Wilson hosts Spring Home and Driving Tours. At Christmas time, take a carriage ride with Santa through downtown Wilson or drive through a Christmas wonderland at the White's Lights display. More than 200,000 lights illuminate the season.

An ideal climate, with an average temperature of 63 degrees, makes Wilson a haven for sports lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Atlantic Ocean and world-famous North Carolina beaches are less than two hours away. Within a day's drive are the East Coast's highest mountains and best snow skiing.

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