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The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner!

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A spacious kitchen with a central island, wooden flooring, and a dining area with chairs and a table.
A kitchen with a central island, bar stools, a refrigerator, an oven, and a sink.
A bedroom with a large bed, a dresser, a window with curtains, and a view of the outdoors.
A spacious living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a desk with a computer.
A red fire station entrance with a brick facade, a large arched door, and two Dalmatian dogs in front.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire apartment

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 61709 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Wilmington, NC
  • Place, Riverwalk
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Cape Fear Community College
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Wilmington Convention Center
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

Room options

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About the neighborhood

Wilmington

Located in Wilmington Historic District, this apartment is a leisurely stroll from sights such as Riverwalk and Ted's Fun On The River. The apartment includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.

What's nearby

  • Riverwalk - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Bellamy Mansion Museum - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Cape Fear Community College - 2 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Wilmington Convention Center - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles

Getting around

  • Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Burger King - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪On Thyme - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Concorde Espresso Bar - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Savard Beer & Board - ‬13 min walk
  • ‪Hidden Grounds Coffee - ‬14 min walk

About this property

The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner!

2026 Vrbo Vacation Rental of the Year

One of only 15 vacation homes in the United States selected by Vrbo/Expedia from more than 2 million properties worldwide.
We never imagined receiving this extraordinary honor, and we are incredibly grateful that Station No. 2/The Historic Firehouse Suite has been recognized as one of the finest vacation rentals in America. We invite you to discover why guests from around the country have fallen in love with this unforgettable historic firehouse.

Sleep in a Piece of Wilmington History
There simply isn't another place quite like Station No. 2/Historic Firehouse Suite!
Originally built in 1915 as Wilmington's Engine Company No. 2, this beautifully restored Italianate firehouse has been thoughtfully transformed into an extraordinary luxury vacation experience while preserving the character and charm that made it a city landmark.
Please Note: This is a second-floor apartment accessed only by stairs. There is no elevator, and the suite is not wheelchair accessible.
Designed by renowned local architect James F. Gause, Jr., the fire station originally housed six firefighters, two horses, and a horse-drawn hose wagon. The station's historic fire bell, relocated from Fourth and Dock Streets, faithfully sounded alarms throughout the city until Wilmington's last fire horse retired in 1918.
Today, that same historic building offers guests an opportunity to experience Wilmington in a way that few ever can.

Luxury Meets History
The former firefighters' bunkhouse has been transformed into an expansive 1,709-square-foot luxury loft, professionally designed with a sophisticated blend of historic architecture and modern comfort.
Inside you'll discover:
• Soaring 14-foot ceilings
• Original hardwood floors
• Exposed brick walls
• Custom concrete countertops
• Stainless steel appliances
• Elegant designer furnishings
• Original artwork throughout the home, including works by acclaimed local artists
The spacious open-concept living area offers plenty of room to gather, featuring comfortable seating, a large flat-screen television, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a dining table that comfortably seats ten guests.
Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a space that feels both luxurious and authentically historic.

An Experience—Not Just a Stay
On the first floor is our beautifully restored Station No. 2 Event Venue and picturesque courtyard. To ensure your stay remains peaceful and private, no events are held during your rental of the Firehouse Suite.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a weekend getaway, or simply exploring Wilmington, you'll quickly discover why guests describe Station No. 2/The Historic Firehouse Suite as one of the most memorable places they've ever stayed.

Perfectly Located
Station No. 2/Historic Firehouse Suite sits at the gateway to Wilmington's vibrant and eclectic Castle Street District, where you'll find:
• Saturday Peddlers Market
• Antique shops
• Vintage boutiques
• Art galleries
• Wine bars
• Coffee shops
• Outstanding local restaurants- several are owned by James Beard award-winning chefs!
From here, it's an easy stroll through Wilmington's beautiful historic neighborhoods to the downtown Riverwalk, just five blocks away.
You'll also be within walking distance of:
• Thalian Hall
• Brooklyn Arts Center
• The Cotton Exchange
• Historic Riverwalk
• Horse-drawn carriage tours
• Ghost tours & haunted pub crawls
• Battleship North Carolina
• Wilmington Convention Center
• Cape Fear Community College
• The New Hanover County Library & Cape Fear Museum
• Numerous award-winning restaurants, breweries, and live music venues
And minutes from our beautiful beaches….
One of the best perks? Free on-street parking—no expensive downtown parking fees.

Traveling with Pets?
Well-behaved pets are welcome with a pet fee. We simply ask that they remain off the furniture. (Guests with significant animal allergies may wish to choose another property.)

House Rules
To preserve the peaceful atmosphere that our guests love, house parties and unauthorized events are strictly prohibited.
Whether you're visiting Wilmington for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, or unforgettable dining, Station No. 2/The Historic Firehouse Suite offers far more than a place to sleep—it offers an opportunity to become part of a remarkable piece of Wilmington's story.

We hope you'll come experience for yourself why Vrbo named Station No. 2/The Historic Firehouse Suite one of America's Vacation Rentals of the Year.
The apartment is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a phone. Housekeeping is available on request.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Water dispenser

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 2 accessible parking spaces
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina

Things to do

  • Optional golf privileges
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally sourced food prioritized
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Recycling
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 1,709 square feet
  • Vegetarian dining options
  • Water dispenser

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

Garden behind the property is part of the event sp

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Keep pets off of bedding & upholstered furniture.

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM

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.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • 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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Beautiful Upstairs Suite Historic Firehouse 5th Ave. Castle St
Beautiful Upstairs Suite Historic Firehouse 5th Ave. Castle St

Frequently asked questions

What can I see around this apartment?

This apartment is situated in Wilmington Historic District within a short 12-minute walk of Riverwalk and also 12 minutes on foot from Cape Fear River. You'll also find Bellamy Mansion Museum and Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner!?

Yes, there is wheelchair-accessible van parking available.

Is this apartment next to a casino?

No, this apartment is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this apartment?

No, there is no indoor pool at this apartment.

What do couples enjoy most about Beautiful Upstairs Suite in The Historic Firehouse At 5th Ave. & Castle St.?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this historic apartment include a kitchen and a smart TV along with a garden.

Does Beautiful Upstairs Suite in The Historic Firehouse At 5th Ave. & Castle St. have a hot tub?

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

Does this apartment offer breakfast?

No, this apartment doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this apartment allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this apartment.

Does Beautiful Upstairs Suite in The Historic Firehouse At 5th Ave. & Castle St. have connecting rooms available?

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

How far is the airport from this apartment?

The closest major airport to this apartment is Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), which is 5 mi away (9 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner!?

Yes, every apartment at The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner! comes with a patio.

The Historic Firehouse Suite at Station No.2 - VRBO 2026 Award Winner! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

super nice spot

easy walk to town… would definitely stay again. hosts are fantastic.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location to Downtown Wilmington

It was a great visit! It was nice staying in a historic place. We were within walking distance of downtown.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

lisa f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Firehouse Stay

We loved the space! Very creative amd unique 😍
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sean O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!!

If you don’t book this place you are missing out. The place is awesome. We got lucky and met the people who run it who happened to be downstairs when we arrived so we got a history lesson of the place. It is gorgeous and huge. And that area of Wilmington has really blossomed in the past four years. Some great new favorites and of course still close to all the things we love in the other areas of Wilmington. Terrific.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Donna H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Walk to anywhere!

Decor is stunning! We never had to get in our car to attend all downtown wedding festivities. When we were hungry we walked across the Strret to RX one of the best restaurants in town. Only suggestion is to make the TV/entertainment system more user friendly for non techies We figured it out on our last day!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

KURT K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay!! So surprised how nice!!

Staying at the fire house in Wilmington was a nice surprise! It is a very unique place to stay and one that my wife and kids will remember for a long time. We had a great time and were surprised how nice the fire house was renovated. The owners went to every detail to make sure that your stay is comfortable. The kids enjoyed the games and old-school boombox. We loved the proximity to the Riverwalk and even got to see fireworks on July 4 down by the river that night. Admittedly I was a little concerned about staying in a building that old, but it was truly an enjoyable experience. I thought that the heating and cooling may not suffice, but it held up on the hottest of days during our three day stay. We would definitely rent this location again. This is a great way to see Wilmington if you want a unique and memorable experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Cheri B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Firehouse Fun!

The Firehouse in Wilmington, NC was a wonderful place for our four day stay. We thought we would try something new and a little historical feel to it. The place was spacious and nicely decorated. We were in walking distance of the downtown area and also the community within blocks of us. We did bring the dogs and there was a courtyard for them to hang out with us and many places were dog friendly. It was a pleasure meeting our host Donna and she was very helpful and kind. We were there during a time the community was having an outdoor movie night with popcorn, hot dogs and slushie treats and she invited us to join in the fun. It was a very hot week but we enjoyed our stay and visited the beach and the battleship. If you enjoy history, stay in the Firehouse and learn more about the Wilmington area!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pamela C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

Love your place!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kiki D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

We had a nice relaxing stay! Rental had everything we needed and close to everything!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amanda G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super cool

The firehouse was decorated with all things I would have picked (or would like to pick!) - such a beautiful place to stay. Quiet neighborhood but close to the Southside and beach…Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

jody b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful stay in downtown Wilmington!

The property was truly unique, we enjoyed the historical aspect of the old fire station. We were close to the beaches and downtown. The property is spacious and filled with sunlight from the beautiful original windows in the main living areas. We had a great time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Get Away

We loved our stay at the firehouse. We needed a quick stay to just relax a bit. The city sounds were a bit loud, but that is to be expected. The place was very clean and well organized. The host was really good about suggesting restaurants and quickly responding to messages. A great stay, we would love to cone back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pat W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wilmington Get-Away

Wonderful visit to the old Historic Fire House. Lots of room and beautifully decorated. Great location with several neighborhood restaurants within walking distance. Enjoyed the waterfront. We took a boat cruise and toured the World War II Battleship.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Robert M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved the Firehouse!

Loved the Firehouse. Would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Deanna K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful experience

The place was open and bright. Very clean and had everything we needed for the weekend stay. Definitely will stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Jessie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Thanksgiving!

My brother had stayed in the property before, so when we needed a place to cook and host a Covid-safe Thanksgiving, he recommended it. I and my husband and our kids and their friend stayed at the Firehouse, and other family and friends helped set up the downstairs, Station 2, and even put a small fire pit into the courtyard. Terry and Donna were friendly and very responsive. We had our first big family gathering in 2 years. Lovely experience, lovely venue, would recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lisa J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem!

Such a cute condo! Loved all the details that made it unique but also appreciated the comforts of home. It was clean, spacious, and exactly as described. Would 100% stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Anthony F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Kids loved the firehouse!!

Fire house was really cool and our kids loved it. The renovations are really nice and the fact that our 3 and 6 year old will never forget they stayed in an old fire house are priceless.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful place and a great experience.

Very unique property. Beautiful interior and even more beautiful private courtyard (looks great at night). On top of that, the amenities were plentiful (towels/linens, kitchen ware, iron, hair dryer...and even a first aid kit).
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Allison B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historic Firehouse in Wilmington

We had a wonderful stay at the renovated historic firehouse no 2 in downtown Wilmington. Gorgeous, comfy decor and could walk to everything !
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

William P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place

Very clean and open space. Great location in downtown Wilmington, NC.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mindy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place!

Property manager was excellent and the place was clean and awesome!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

bobby m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming and Unique

Very cute and memorable stay. Historic charm
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Erik L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice rental

Cool firehouse rental. Open floor plan and close to historic downtown.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shannon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Location and Great Set Up!

I was in town for a wedding downtown @ Brooklyn Arts and location of this property was perfect! RX is across the street and the food and beverages were fantastic!