MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

2.5 star property
Hotel with free breakfast, near University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

BBQ/picnic area
Exterior
Free daily continental breakfast
Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Kitchen, Non Smoking | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Lobby

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
5229 Market St, Hwy 132 & Us 17, Wilmington, NC, 28405
  • Place, University of North Carolina at Wilmington
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Wilmington Convention Center
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Battleship North Carolina
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Airport, Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
    ‪7 min drive‬

Room options

Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Kitchen, 1 Room Efficiency, Non Smoking

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(10 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Sofa Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(12 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Suite, 1 King Bed with Kitchen, Non Smoking

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(40 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Kitchen, Non Smoking

8.2 out of 10
Very good
(45 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Wilmington

Located in North College within 2 miles (3 km) of University of North Carolina at Wilmington, MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area is within a few miles (5 km) of other popular sights such as Mayfaire Town Center. This 63-room hotel has conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington - 2 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Mayfaire Town Center - 7 min drive - 3.7 miles
  • Wilmington Convention Center - 9 min drive - 6.4 miles
  • Cape Fear Community College - 9 min drive - 6.6 miles
  • Battleship North Carolina - 11 min drive - 7.8 miles

Getting around

  • Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 7 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Jax 5th Avenue Deli & Ale House - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Cracker Barrel - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Olive Garden - ‬3 min walk

About this property

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area

Hotel with free breakfast, near University of North Carolina at Wilmington
At MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area, guests have access to a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and a 24-hour business center. If you decide to drive, there's free parking. The front desk is staffed 24/7 to help secure valuables, and answer any questions about the accommodations. Additional amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, free newspapers, and laundry facilities.
Guests can expect 32-inch TVs with cable channels, along with free WiFi and wired Internet. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Kitchens, sofa beds, and dining areas are other standard amenities.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a fitness center and a seasonal outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Things to do

  • Gym
  • Personal motorized watercraft
  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room crib
  • In-room full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • In-room kitchen
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room sofa bed
  • Laundry facilities
  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • Separate in-room dining area

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Safe at front desk
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Business services

  • 24-hour business center

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Lever door handles
  • Pool hoist on site
  • Portable shower seat
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible pool
  • Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Double sofa bed
  • Free crib
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 32-inch TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • Kitchen
  • Microwave
  • Separate dining area
  • Stovetop

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Phone
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: USD 50 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector and window guards
This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice)
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector and window guards.
  • This property affirms that it follows the cleaning and disinfection practices of Commitment to Clean (Choice).

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • The seasonal pool is open from April to October.
  • Pool access available from 9:00 AM to 10 PM.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Mainstay Suites Hotel Wilmington
Mainstay Suites Wilmington
Mainstay Wilmington
Mainstay Suites Wilmington Hotel
Wilmington Mainstay Suites
Mainstay Suites Wilmington
MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Hotel
MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Wilmington
MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Hotel Wilmington

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area offers free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

As of Dec 2, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area on Jan 2, 2026 start from $92.65, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do near MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

This hotel is situated in North College, close to Riverwalk and Wrightsville Beach. You'll also find Mayfaire Town Center and Airlie Gardens within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking and RV/bus/truck parking are also available for guests.

Does MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area include a casino?

No, MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool. Guests have access between 9:00 AM and 10 PM and the seasonal pool is normally open from April until October.

Is MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this hotel include a kitchen, premium bedding, and free Internet access.

Are there hot tubs at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area for a fee of USD 50 per accommodation, per stay.

Does MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

Where is the closest airport to MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

The closest major airport to MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area is Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), which is 4.6 mi away (7 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area.

Reviews

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Reviews

8.2

Very Good

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 412 out of 888 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 247 out of 888 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 116 out of 888 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 63 out of 888 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 50 out of 888 reviews

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Melissa

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lydell

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Gladys

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service
The availability of coffee and other supplies was limited. Had a maintenance request which which was not done in time and the staff was not concerned at all about it; level of customer service was lacking.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tyrone

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

evelyn

Liked: Staff & service
Nav
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Leidi

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
The room has a terrible dog’s smell, there were dog’s hair everywhere. I will never stay here again, I do have pets my self but it is disgusting to sleep in a bed smelling bad. My husband has allergies and he could not sleep.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Terrible experience

Rooms had holes in furniture, pool was shared with a neighboring hotel, bed linens were dirty , food splattered on curtains,had to change rooms twice because of these issues
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matthew, Morganton

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Excellent stay
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Patricia, High Point

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was conveniently located for our needs, and as a suites-style we enjoyed having a private bedroom, sitting/living area, and kitchenette. This room was also pet-friendly on the 1st floor. We did have a problem with the exterior doors not properly opening with our key cards - multiple times, in fact. I reported this to the front desk. Also - their pet policy states no pets over 25 pounds.....but we encountered several MUCH larger dogs, which was a bit intimidating as we were walking out 15-pounder.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Brenna

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Sue

Traveled with family
Liked: Room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eliel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Darik

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Needs a deep cleaning and maintenance.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

natoshia

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Franklin

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Spacious room
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael J.

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Kelly

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was not well maintained and there were stains on the bed and the office chair was so filthy we had to ask for another. Light was broken in kitchen and it just felt old and dirty. They only had one very tiny shampoo bottle for a room that sleeps six and no conditioner. The pull out couch was disgusting when pulled out - literally impossible to sleep on so we had to buy an inflatable mattress. It was spacious and the lay out of the room was great, but needs deep cleaning, painting, carpet cleaning, and maintenance. Pool is not on site, it’s shared with hotel across the street.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Daniel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

AMY

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
It was OK. Hallway carpets not the cleanest. Breakfast was OK. Couch smelled and the poor person who slept on it slept backwards.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Chris

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Robin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was a nice stay the rooms were cle a n and everybody was very hopeful and nice
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Ebony

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
This place was terrible. I had to change rooms four times, and I still wasn't comfortable. The first room had a stench, and the second room, the couch was filthy ( I have pictures to prove it). The third room also had a smell, and I settled for the last room. At that point, I was not comfortable staying at that hotel at all. We did not stay there at all. We ended up canceling the rest of the reservation and stayed somewhere else that we found at the last minute.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Minela, Wilmington

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025