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MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

eef - (888) 420-1647
MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area, 5229 Market Street Highway 132 & Us 17, Wilmington, NC -(888) 420-1647
Area: Wilmington
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4
HOTEL RATING: 
VERY GOOD
4 out of 5 (597 Ratings)
2.5 miles Trask Coliseum
v9 mins driving
BOOK ONLINE OR CALL - (888) 420-1647
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The Spotlight on MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

Comfortable, budget-friendly base near Wilmington's music scene

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area offers a relaxed, home-like stay just a short drive from downtown Wilmington and the city’s best concert venues. This laid-back 3-star hotel features spacious rooms, many with full kitchenettes, and thoughtful amenities like a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center, and free WiFi. With free private parking and easy access off Highway 132 and US 17, it’s a smart choice for travelers wanting both comfort and convenience.

Why Concert-goers love it

The hotel is under 15 minutes from Wilmington’s top music spots like Thalian Hall and Greenfield Lake Amphitheater, making it super convenient for catching your favorite acts without the downtown price tag. After the show, come back to a quiet neighborhood for some well-earned rest. With late check-out at 12:00 PM and staff available 24/7, it’s easy to keep your schedule flexible. Plus, being just 2.5 miles from Wilmington International Airport means getting in and out is a breeze.

Who this Hotel is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for affordable, multi-bed accommodations
  • Solo travelers chasing that once-in-a-lifetime concert
  • Couples turning a concert night into a weekend escape
  • Fans needing a quiet place to recharge after a loud night out
  • Budget-conscious music lovers wanting value without sacrificing comfort

Food and Drink Options

While there’s no on-site restaurant, many rooms come with a kitchenette including a fridge and microwave—perfect for late-night snacks. There are also several local eateries within walking distance, ranging from quick bites to casual sit-down spots. Breakfast is available, giving you an easy start after a late night.

Nightlife Options

The hotel itself is more about chill vibes than live beats, but it’s just a short drive to Wilmington’s lively downtown nightlife. Whether it’s local bars with live music, cozy pubs, or craft beer taprooms, you’re not far from the action. Then head back to your quiet room to wind down.

What People Say

Guests rave about the clean, spacious rooms and the convenience of in-room kitchenettes. The friendly staff and quiet setting also get high marks, as does the location—close enough to downtown without the crowds. Free parking and strong WiFi are added bonuses.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests mention that the property is a bit dated in places and the seasonal pool isn't always available, so check ahead if that’s a must. While there’s no on-site dining, the nearby restaurant options make up for it.

The Bottom Line

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area is a smart, affordable pick for concert-goers looking to stay close to the action while enjoying a quiet, comfortable retreat.
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1 room
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Amenities View More
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Free Internet
x
Free Breakfast
j
Free Parking
u
Swimming Pool
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Fitness Center
A
Business Center
B
Airport Shuttle
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Non Smoking
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Pets Allowed
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Accessible
Other Amenities
` Free Breakfast
` Free Parking
` Garden
` Golf Course
` Meeting/Banquet Facilities
` Room Service
` Safety Deposit Box
` Air Conditioning
` 24-Hour Front Desk
` Elevator
` Hair dryer
` Microwave
` Coffee/tea maker
` Water sports
` Refrigerator
` BBQ facilities
` Wheelchair accessible
` On-site parking
` indoor pool
` outdoor pool
` vending machine
` telephone
` kitchenware
` blackout curtains
` Designated Smoking Area
` Family Rooms
` Free Wi-Fi
` Kitchen
` Restaurant(s)
` Daily Housekeeping
` English
` Non-Smoking Rooms Available
` gift/souvenir shop
` Shops on site
` Sofa
` Mirror
` Smoke alarms
` Fire extinguishers
` Guests can opt-out of daily cleaning service
` Staff follow all safety protocols as directed by local authorities
` Cashless payment available
` Linens, towels and laundry washed in accordance with local authority guidelines
` Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas
` Hygiene certification
` Staff trained in safety protocol
` Temperature check for guests and staff
` Free face masks
` Contactless check-in/out
` CCTV security in common areas
` Daily disinfection
` Facilities for disabled guests available
` Fitness center
` Ironing amenities
` Laundry services
` Non-smoking property
` Separate shower/bathtub
` Toiletries provided
` TV & Movies/Shows
` Wake up call
` Physical/social distancing guidelines
` Protective screen or physical barriers in appropriate areas
` Individually-wrapped food options
` Air conditioning in public area
` Heating in public area
` Cleaning products available
` Pets allowed (charges may apply)
` Shuttle service (charges may apply)
` Xerox/fax in business center

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Guest Reviews

Overall Average Score: 
Very Good (4 out of 5)

Write a review

2.5

Fair - 2.5 out of 5

Anonymous Sun, 8 June 2025

Passable

Liked: The hard boiled eggs smelled like chemicals and there was to much to choose from
Disliked: The hallways always had a funny smell and there were sketchy people in the parking lot trying to get into the hotel in guest entrances

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Kierra Fri, 6 June 2025

Great for Price and plenty...

Liked: The price and it was clean
Disliked: They changed my room last minute and didn’t tell me

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Stephanie Sat, 31 May 2025

Superb

1.5

Poor - 1.5 out of 5

Pamela Tue, 27 May 2025

Poor

Liked: The location was great
Disliked: The room had a very bad odor, the couch was ripped on arm rest looked like it was done by a cat and the floor looked as if it had never been mopped

1

Poor - 1.0 out of 5

Sheila Mon, 26 May 2025

Aside from the convenient location,...

Liked: “While the hotel’s central location was convenient and made getting around easy, I was disappointed with the overall experience. Cleanliness and service did not meet expectations, which took away from what could have been a more enjoyable stay.”
Disliked: While the location was convenient, the overall experience was disappointing. Our room was not clean—there was a strong odor on the bed, dirty towels, sticky floors, and trash left behind. The toilet overflowed on the first night, and instead of offering proper assistance, staff handed me a plunger. When moved to another room, it was also clearly not cleaned properly. Other guests had similar issues, and staff seemed indifferent. A small discount was offered, but it didn’t make up for the poor service and conditions.

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Carlos Mon, 26 May 2025

Bad

Liked: I didn’t like the property because for one when they where having trouble with the room I was supposed to bring my stuff back in they never let me go back and get my AirPods

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

April Mon, 26 May 2025

Last Minute Wilmington

Liked: The size of our room. Was surprisingly spacious.
Disliked: Elevator made alot of suspicious noises. Hoping we make it from 1 to 3

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Kevin Sun, 25 May 2025

Exceptional

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Rebecca Sun, 25 May 2025

Superb

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Steele Wed, 14 May 2025

It was comfortable

Liked: The beds were comfortable, and the rooms were clean. Breakfast was also good.
Disliked: Too many guests with animals and the barking of the dogs all night. The keys to the room never worked. I had to keep getting the keys reset, at least 3 times a day. And the pullout bed needs to be replaced.

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MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area 5229 Market Street Highway 132 & Us 17, Wilmington, NC