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MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

eef - (888) 323-5826
MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area, 5229 Market Street Highway 132 & Us 17, Wilmington, NC -(888) 323-5826
Area: Wilmington
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4
HOTEL RATING: 
VERY GOOD
4 out of 5 (602 Ratings)
2.5 miles Trask Coliseum
v9 mins driving
BOOK ONLINE OR CALL - (888) 323-5826
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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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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

0.5

Poor - 0.5 out of 5

Sharon Mon, 30 June 2025

Bad

Liked: When I checked I had to wake the front desk clerk up! The keys didn't work and we had to replace them both days. The hallway carpet was filthy there were stains all over it smelled. There was a big bag of trash and a pizza box that set on the floor over night discussing. The chairs in the room were trash, and stain could sit on the sofa at all. I had to use fragrance on the bed, the mattress was stained. The next day house keeping came in a made 1 bed there were 2 of us the other bed was not made. They took out dirty towels and wash cloths and didn't replace them. The coffee maker wasn't clean, there wasn't enough utilities. While sitting outside in the patio area 4 people were smoking Marijuana and we had to leave. I will never stay at Mainstay suites ever. We're it not that my card was fully charged for the 2 nights before ,I got there I would have left. I plan to forward this information to my credit card company also. I am going to look into fraud, this place is a dump!!!!
Disliked: Its a dump don't go there.

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Stefanie Mon, 30 June 2025

Exceptional

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Stefanie Mon, 30 June 2025

Exceptional

Liked: The staff was great. My housekeeper Annette was very friendly and made sure we had everything that we needed. Front desk associates we also welcoming.

4

Very Good - 4.0 out of 5

Angela Mon, 30 June 2025

Very good

Liked: Bed was comfortable. Room clean
Disliked: Hall carpets need to be replaced very dirty. Elevator was shabby and scary

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Sophia Sun, 29 June 2025

Exceptional

5

Exceptional - 5.0 out of 5

Clovis Sun, 29 June 2025

Exceptional

4.5

Wonderful - 4.5 out of 5

Linda Thu, 26 June 2025

Ok

Liked: It was good - would have liked some eggs or more protein, choices, but overall it was good
Disliked: The carpet in the hallways were extremely dirty. Our room was fine, but the main hallway looked pretty rough.

3

Pleasant - 3.0 out of 5

Caroline Thu, 26 June 2025

Decent but felt dirty.

Liked: The staff was very helpful and kind.
Disliked: There was used soap in our bathroom and clothes in the bedroom we deposed of.

3.5

Good - 3.5 out of 5

Istvan Sun, 15 June 2025

Good

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

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