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

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Gym
  • Housekeeping
  • Breakfast included

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, Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Mayfaire Town Center
    ‪7 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

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(38 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Kitchen, Non Smoking

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(41 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
  • Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park - 7 min drive - 4.4 miles
  • Mayfaire Town Center - 7 min drive - 3.7 miles
  • Wilmington Convention Center - 10 min drive - 6.4 miles
  • Battleship North Carolina - 12 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
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Cracker Barrel - ‬7 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

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 Oct 17, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area on Nov 3, 2025 start from $84.15, 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 Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park within a short drive.

Will I be able to park 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 a good place to stay 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).

Can I book a room with a balcony 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. 393 out of 853 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 237 out of 853 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 114 out of 853 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 62 out of 853 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 47 out of 853 reviews

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Bradsher, Roxboro

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Kelly

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hotel is outdated and systems are old. Our air conditioning went out the first night and it was very hot in the room. We got no sleep at all. Staff was friendly and got us new room in the morning but only gave a 15% discount on first night
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Jonathan

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bhishem

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Crystal

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Our stay was great. Everyone was very friendly at the hotel. Our room was roomy enough. Large bathroom. Furniture wasn’t that comfy but doable for the time we were there. All in all our stay was pretty good.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Jeffery

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Josh

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

8/10 Good

Cody

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

6/10 Okay

Sheila

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The water pressure wasnt good in my room!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Took a trip for my birthday weekend our stay was great the staff was friendly and helpful the room was clean. I definitely would recommend for families.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Yolanda

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

8/10 Good

ervin

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Porcelain

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

William, Anacortes

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A nice suite hotel with reasonable prices. Close to beaches, shopping, and dining. Room was decent size with everything needed. The pool is outdoors and across the parking lot as it is shared with another hotel. The staff was knowledgeable about local beaches with helpful suggestions. The breakfast was a typical hotel buffet with the basics.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Melissa

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rooms were clean and great space and storage . Enjoyed the pool and the outdoor BBQ area. Only thing is the kitchen area floors weren't very clean and cookware a pot and pan were very scorched not able to really use . I would stay again but would need my own cookware .
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Krista

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

Great stay

Our room was cery clean and comfortable. The only thing I would complain about would be the carpets in the hallways and stairwells need a good cleaning
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Manzur, CHARLOTTE

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

4/10 Poor

caren

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Upon arrival room was dirty hallway rug was filthy utensils were dirty
Dirty utensils
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Penelope

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was easy to find and the staff was friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Kasey

Traveled with family
Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
At first, I wasn't going to leave a review because I typically don't like to complain, but I do feel that the reviews/rating for this hotel are misleading and I wanted to let other travelers know. We were in town for a quick, one night stay to visit the beach during a trip to NC from another state. One one hand, I will say that the most important things to me about a hotel stay were not problems at this location- I did not see any bugs, and the location seemed safe. The staff was friendly. Having said this though, the carpets in this hotel, both in the hallways and the room, are badly in need of replacing. There is a persistent odor in the hallways. The elevator grinds and squeaks so much that it makes you concerned that you will get stuck. The sofa/pull out bed is old and stained. The key cards work inconsistently. My daughter described it best: it seems like they do the daily upkeep cleaning well, but deep cleaning and renovations are a desperate need. All in all, getting to visit the beach was worth the one night stay, but I wouldn't return to this location.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Stephanie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Amenities
The room was great for our family. The pool was disappointing and our room wasn’t ready when we got there (around 4pm)
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Lena

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was absolutely filthy! The couch was stained, torn & thread bare. Stains on the bed covers. The refrigerator was rusty & dented. The carpet was stained. We only stayed because we had drove 10 hours & couldn’t get a refund. I wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Lynn

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was perfect for our big group. We had 2 separate bedrooms and the living room with a pull out bed and kitchen area. Two vanities- in the bathroom and a second one by the 2 bedrooms- which worked out great when we all were getting ready. The carpets could be replaced but overall we were happy with the accommodations. The patio in the back was nice. The pool is across the parking lot at the sleep inn, which was a little confusing but we asked at the front desk and they were very helpful in answering all of our questions.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025