412 S. 3rd St., Wilmington
910/762-8562
www.worthhouse.com

Named for its original owner, Charles W. Worth, this bed-and-breakfast is the oldest inn in continuous operation in Wilmington. Located in the heart of the historic district, the picturesque Queen Anne home was built in 1893 and features a turret, wide front porch, and fanciful shingles.

The C. W. Worth House was turned into a bed-and-breakfast in 1985. Each of the seven rooms ($139–179 s or d) has distinctive decor, from the blue and white toile wallpaper and coverlets in the Louisiana Suite to the garden-inspired faux finishes in the Turret Room. One of the larger rooms, the Azalea Suite, has a king-sized plantation bed, private sitting room, fireplace, and a claw-foot tub.

The entire inn is decked out with period furnishings, including an antique Weaver pump organ in the formal parlor and a collection of old cameras in the den. Smokie, the resident cat, can be found napping in patches of sunlight and acting as the official greeter.

In the mornings, indulge in artichoke and mushroom quiche, banana-pecan pancakes, or rosemary and goat cheese bread pudding before strolling through the historic district.