The Cotton Exchange

321 N. Front St., Wilmington
910/343-9896
www.shopcottonexchange.com [1]

HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Sun. noon–4 p.m.

The Cotton Exchange is a former cotton exporting firm that houses a series of unique shops that are connected by brick walkways and courtyards. The 28 shops include art galleries, stationery stores, bookstores, and old-fashioned candy shops.

The 19th-century building retains several of its original features like pine beams and exposed brick. Its restoration in the 1970s marked the beginning of the resurgence in downtown Wilmington [2].

As a nod to the past, there are several historic artifacts displayed throughout The Cotton Exchange, including cotton bales, weighing equipment, and period photographs.