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

Relax in the serene outdoor patio surrounded by lush greenery and shaded by a central umbrella.
Enjoy cooking and serving in this well-equipped kitchen with ample storage and a convenient espresso machine.
Relax in our inviting lobby, featuring a comfortable seating area and a beautiful view.
Stunning multi-story building with a central entrance and covered porch area, set amidst a well-maintained lawn.
Two single beds with white linens and a wooden headboard, complemented by a bedside table and lamp.

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Gym
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

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.)
    ‪8 min drive‬

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Room options

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

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

Suite, 2 Queen Beds with Kitchen, Non Smoking

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(39 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
(34 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed

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

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

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
  • ‪Jax 5th Avenue Deli & Ale House - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Crumbl Cookies - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Cracker Barrel - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Golden Corral - ‬16 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.

Languages

English

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 Jul 28, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area on Aug 7, 2025 start from $106.25, 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.

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 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, 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, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area.

MainStay Suites Wilmington - University Area Reviews

Reviews

8.2

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 356 out of 776 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 223 out of 776 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 105 out of 776 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 54 out of 776 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 38 out of 776 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

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

6/10 Okay

Adreyana

Checked in April 7th and was told only 30 days is optional when booking for not booking completely on how long your planning on stay , hotel is ok prices doesn’t match the room so I’m assuming it’s for the location it’s in based off pricing, they do offer appliances which is cool and housekeeping is always knocking on door and if you don’t answer they’ll use their key to come in, had an incident where they turned off my recorder I always had a yellow I’m assuming pee on my bed , I do recommend buying your own cleaning supplies before after cleaning counters in 310 they were a bit dirty then being moved to room 303 the kitchen was dirty , while I was gone for work a housekeeper came in which is ok but they didn’t clean anything they just swapped towels and put up new ones , the same stain that was on toilet when I left is there , the staff are pretty cool tho certain ones the front desk manager has an attitude problem along with a orange headed female’ I have no idea but whatever it is I hope they are ok, other than them two everyone else is great ! The breakfast lady has a attitude problem as well but again I don’t speak with them besides when paying for my room or snacks/drinks in front office i did ask after 30 days when can I check back in I was told 30 days but I won’t be coming back to this location there’s plenty of hotels , places to book , also a blonde hair girl slammed my key down , girllll everyone in this building has issues hope everything is ok with them ,
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maria

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Vanessa

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Courtney

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Boss

Liked: Cleanliness
👍
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Arlene

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
It was average, the hotel rooms are outdated & small tvs. Our room had a mild cigarette/stale smell. Overall okay, only stayed for one night
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

amanda

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
No pool on property, shares with a hotel next door.. no coffee at breakfast they told us we could walk across the parking lot to other hotel if we wanted some. The furniture inside rooms was very damaged and old. Hallways reeked everyday of Marijuana. Evening staff has lots of attitude for simple questions.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joanne

Traveled with family
Liked: Amenities
We were close to the elevator and it was very convenient. Room was clean and bed comfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Joanne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We were on the second flour where the hall carpet was dirty. Our room was clean but we could hear the traffic and we were a long way from the elevator which makes it very inconvenient when you have trouble walking. For breakfast we were very disappointed to find no coffee made. Someone said the staff had advised them to go next door for some.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Melissa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This is the perfect spot for an individual on a business trip, however, it offered little for families. The hotel was clean, but the breakfast was very sparse and we were told each morning of our 3 night stay to, "go across the street if you want coffee-we are out." While the price was right, we would most likely not choose this place to stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Nichole

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Audra

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good parking. Quick check in. Safe. Near dining and shopping. Pet friendly
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

2/10 Terrible

John

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

8/10 Good

Candice

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The room was very clean but had a terrible smell that was overwhelming the second we walked in the door. Everything else was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Katherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Zakaria, Raleigh

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Good for family
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Verified traveler

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The staff there was super friendly now problem checking in or out at all. Room was very muggy and overall not the cleanest. Breakfast they provide is not the best.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Jarette

Traveled with family
Liked: Room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alan

Traveled with family
Liked: Amenities
Great
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Audra

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property was close to shopping for groceries and beach supplies. It is dog-friendly and has a doggy relief area on site.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hui-Wen

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

JAVIER

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My room was very clean
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025