Natives become tourists for the day

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — On Sunday, New Hanover County residents got the opportunity to visit 30 of the Cape Fear area’s attractions, during the 16th annual “Be a tourist in your own hometown” event.

“That’s the beauty of this day,” says John Henry Scott, who works at the Black Cat Shoppe in downtown Wilmington. “It brings people out and they say, ‘well, I’ve never gone to this, that, or the other thing. Let’s try it out. It’s free today. Let’s go look at it and check it out.'”

Free demonstrations, tours, food and drink specials, and discounted merchandise were available to hometown tourists.

Many says the day gave them the opportunity to discover and explore things they haven’t seen in their hometown.

“Literally, I feel like I’ve driven down from somewhere and am taking advantage of this,” says hometown tourist Jen Riedel. “It’s really been fun.”

Participants say the day gives them the chance to showcase what they have to offer.

“It’s good for the merchants,” says Scott. “We’re happy to giver and we’re happy to get. It pays back more than you put into it.”