The historic district and riverfront are easily walkable — the main sights are concentrated in a compact area that can be covered on foot in a day. Parking garages are available near the riverfront and in the historic district.
A car is essential for getting to the beaches (Wrightsville Beach is 10 miles east) and for the broader area. Public transport in Wilmington is limited — Wave Transit runs local buses but they're not designed for tourist use and don't reach the beaches.
The city is flat and increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes in some areas. Rental bikes and electric scooters are available for short trips. Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Lyft) are reliable throughout the downtown and beach areas.