New Orleans, LA, USA to Wilmington, NC, USA from $61: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from New Orleans to Wilmington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$61 - Train, busBest price

1244 kmDistance

5h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New Orleans to Wilmington with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Traveling From New Orleans to Wilmington

Traveling from New Orleans to Wilmington offers you a fascinating contrast between the vibrant streets of NOLA, filled with music and rich cultural history, and the serene coastal charm of Wilmington, where the riverfront beckons with a slower pace and inviting atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wilmington

Wilmington boasts neighborhoods that blend history, charm, and coastal beauty.

Downtown Wilmington

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and live music.

• Historic architecture along the scenic riverwalk.

Brooklyn Arts District

• Eclectic shops and local eateries to explore.

• Home to the Wilmington Visual Arts Collective.

Carolina Beach

• Stunning beaches with a lively boardwalk atmosphere.

• Great for water sports and outdoor adventures.

Best Times To Visit Wilmington's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience in Wilmington's top spots.

Battleship North Carolina

Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Airlie Gardens

Spring offers blooming flowers; weekdays are less crowded than weekends.

Wilmington Riverwalk

Early mornings provide a peaceful stroll before tourists arrive.

Wilmington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wilmington experiences a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall typically offer the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while summer heat can influence your plans.

Dining Recommendation

In Wilmington, savor the fresh catch at the iconic Dock Street Oyster Bar, where local seafood shines with a lighter, more subtle flavor profile compared to the bold spices of New Orleans cuisine. The laid-back atmosphere and views of the river add a touch of coastal charm, offering a dining experience that highlights the region's fresh ingredients and tranquil vibe.

New Orleans - Wilmington operators

Explore transport companies operating between New Orleans and Wilmington, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration

5h 27m

Estimated price

$185-569

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 31m

Estimated price

$5695-18580

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Miami

Average Duration

6h 34m

Estimated price

$5696-5697

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Reagan Washington

Average Duration

6h 49m

Estimated price

$5696-5697

Plane from Gulfport/Biloxi (GPT) to Wilmington (ILM) via Charlotte

Average Duration

5h 47m

Estimated price

$5698-850

Website

delta.com

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 21m

Estimated price

$5695-610

Plane from Gulfport/Biloxi (GPT) to Wilmington (ILM) via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 59m

Estimated price

$611-5697

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Jacksonville

Average Duration

4h 44m

Estimated price

$5696-5694

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Wilmington (ILM) via Myrtle Beach

Average Duration

4h 36m

Estimated price

$1855-612

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration

17h 21m

Estimated price

$614-1856

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Greensboro

Average Duration

19h 37m

Estimated price

$3591-3592

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from New Orleans Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 15m

Estimated price

$616-2480

Bus from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 45m

Estimated price

$85-2480

Bus from Myrtle Beach Bus Station to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$2481-2482

Bus from Greensboro Bus Stop to Raleigh Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2481-2482

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit

Average Duration

3h 5m

Estimated price

$2485-3594

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1 404-591-2750

Website

southeasternstages.com

Other from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach, SC

Average Duration

7h 45m

Estimated price

$85-2480

Contact phone

+1-910-938-8989

Other from Jacksonville to Wilmington

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

$5691-5695

New Orleans to Wilmington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between New Orleans and Wilmington offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from lively New Orleans to historic Wilmington covering a scenic driving distance of 883 miles. Indulge in the diverse landscapes and charming cities along the way. 💸 Explore a range of budget options for your journey, with prices varying from $160 to $240 to travel by car from New Orleans to Wilmington. Plan ahead to find the best deal that suits your travel preferences.

Average price

$160 - $240

🌍 Traveling from New Orleans, there are no direct flights to Wilmington. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 51 minutes. 🛫 Delta and American Airlines are two carriers that provide flights from New Orleans Airport to Wilmington Airport. The total duration of the journey by air from New Orleans to Wilmington is around 5 hours and 45 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Wilmington and New Orleans can range from $185 to $569.

Departure Point

New Orleans Airport

Arrival Point

Wilmington Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 51m and has one stopover

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Since there are no direct flights from New Orleans to Wilmington, plan for your layover wisely; consider using Atlanta (Delta) or Charlotte (American Airlines) as they offer the most efficient and comfortable connections.

• Upon arrival at Wilmington International Airport (ILM), familiarize yourself with the terminal layout; the compact size means you can expect a quick exit, and be sure to check out the visitor information center in the baggage claim area for local maps and brochures.

• Taxi services from Wilmington International Airport to downtown Wilmington typically cost between $20 to $30, so have cash or a card ready; alternatively, consider using rideshare apps for potentially quicker service, especially during peak travel times.

🚌 Traveling from New Orleans to Wilmington by bus requires transfers at various stations, including Atlanta and Myrtle Beach, before reaching your final destination. The journey takes approximately 21 hours and 41 minutes. 🚏 Greyhound USA operates the bus services from New Orleans Bus Station to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit station. The prices for a bus ticket between Wilmington and New Orleans can range from $146 to $273, depending on factors such as time of booking and seat availability.

Departure Point

New Orleans Bus Station

Arrival Point

Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New Orleans to Wilmington.

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The distance between New Orleans and Wilmington is approximately 773 miles. If you choose to drive, it will take about 14 hours and 29 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer to travel by bus, it will take around 21 hours and 29 minutes. Taking a plane is the fastest option, with a travel time of just 5 hours and 41 minutes.

The most cost-effective way to travel from New Orleans to Wilmington is by taking a train and bus via Fayetteville, which typically costs between $60 and $330. However, this option also takes the longest, with a total travel time of about 27 hours and 24 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest option is to fly, which typically costs between $180 and $600 and takes approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes. So, if time is a priority, flying would be the most efficient choice.

The prices for a bus ticket between Wilmington and New Orleans range from $96 to $253. This variation in price may be dependent on factors such as the time of booking, the bus company, and any additional amenities or services offered. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices before making a reservation to ensure the best deal.

To get from New Orleans to Wilmington without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance is approximately 883 miles, which would take around 14 hours and 29 minutes to drive. The prices for this mode of transportation can range from $160 to $240, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls. Remember to plan for rest stops and consider the cost of accommodations if the journey is too long to complete in one day.

To travel from New Orleans to Wilmington without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 21 hours and 29 minutes and the cost ranges from $95 to $260. Another alternative for quicker travel would be to take a plane, which would take around 5 hours and 41 minutes. However, it is important to note that this option may be more expensive.

No, there is no direct link between New Orleans and Wilmington. However, there are options available for travel. One option is to take a bus from New Orleans to Wilmington, which includes transfers and takes approximately 21h 29m. Another option is to fly, which takes about 5h 41m. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it would depend on the traveler's preferences and priorities.

The flight duration between New Orleans and Wilmington typically takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Wilmington and New Orleans can vary between $185 and $569, depending on the airline and the booking time. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for a flight from New Orleans to Wilmington.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Wilmington. There are over 459 hotels available, ranging in price starting from $53. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury stay, there are various hotels to choose from to suit different preferences and budgets. Additionally, it is advisable to book your stay in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

New Orleans, LA, USA to Wilmington, NC, USA from $61: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from New Orleans to Wilmington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From New Orleans to Wilmington

Best Neighbourhoods in Wilmington

Best Times To Visit Wilmington's Attractions

Wilmington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

New Orleans - Wilmington operators

New Orleans to Wilmington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from New Orleans

Trips to Orange Beach

Popular routes