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

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
  • University of North Carolina at Wilmington
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Mayfaire Town Center
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • 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 Kitchen, Non Smoking

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(41 reviews)
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Suite, 1 King Bed with Kitchen, Non Smoking

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

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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

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬7 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

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 Sep 14, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area on Sep 21, 2025 start from $89.25, 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 good for couples?

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

Does MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area have a hot tub?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

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 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. 379 out of 832 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 235 out of 832 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 114 out of 832 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 60 out of 832 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 44 out of 832 reviews

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Bradsher, Roxboro

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 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

2/10 Terrible

caren

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Upon my arrival Room was not clean bed was slept in hallway carpet is filthy was told I would be accommodated after spending almost $400 Orbitz review was false went to breakfast machine was outdated waited over 30 minutes for a cup of coffee worse experience I ever had
Dirty utensils
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Natashya

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great for families. We loved the access to food, Target, Costco, and outlets. Close enough to university and beach. Only hot menu item for breakfast is waffles, but that's fine, they did have boiled eggs and sausage sandwiches that could be heated in microwave so that gave good savory options. Very clean, great staff.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Zhali Marie

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ciara

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shanen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Sherri

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
3rd floor had a bad smell. Food mixed with weeks of old water.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

almonique

Traveled with family and small children
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed there with my family used food boxes with a host of the other things undwr the bed. The couch was ripped with stains from the visitor of 1905. Someone thought so lovely of tge property they pissed on the stairs.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Lisa

Liked: Staff & service
.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

tev

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

4/10 Poor

Landry

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Pretty run down to say the least (dirty main areas, cupboard laying on top of fridge, soiled furniture). Probably most disturbing is the way certain staff seem to let people use the facility who are either not staying there or running some kind of a long term shared room for nefarious activity).
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leonel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Would book again !
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela

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

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Kalyan

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Monica

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was good for a one night stay
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leasa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was nice and the staff was friendly
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yanitza

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean, good quality, and very nice people.The staff was so friendly.Close to the beach aswell.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

SALLIE

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very clean, spacious, safe location, close to sports complex, friendly staff, lady attending to breakfast bar was very helpful. Great weekend, will definitely be back
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Jacqueline

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Overall it was ok. The staff was friendly but they will fully charge you BEFORE check in if they are fully booked with no notification. The elevator is aggressive in its take off and landing. The rooms are nice. The breakfast leaves room for improvement. Not a baf stay but also noy fantastic.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Elizabeth

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Staff & service
There was a hyperdermic needle by the broken doggie doodle receptacle. The bags of dodo went thru the bottomless receptacle. Also, put a picnic table or somewhere to sit with your dog or kids under those pines in the back. Hallway carpets should be cleaned, then maybe you wouldn’t need so much scented air freshener
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025

4/10 Poor

KELLY

Traveled with group
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Location was good Hotel needs an upgrade inside. The smell was horrific in the hallways.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alvinetris, Fayetteville

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tzer

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in May 2025