North Carolina has quietly become one of the most prolific filming hubs on the East Coast. From the collegiate charm of the Piedmont to the sweeping coastal vistas of the Atlantic, the state’s diverse landscapes serve as a versatile backdrop for everything from sweeping period dramas to modern teen romances.
For travelers, this has birthed a growing trend known as “set-jetting” —the practice of traveling to locations seen on screen. Whether you are a fan of Nicholas Sparks’ romantic landscapes, the historical grit of Outlander, or the nostalgic teen drama of One Tree Hill, North Carolina offers a ready-made itinerary of cinematic landmarks.
The Collegiate Charm of Chapel Hill
In the heart of the state, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill serves as more than just an academic institution; it is the fictional home of “Finch College” from the hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty .
- On-Screen Landmarks: Fans can visit Old East, the oldest building on campus, which stood in for the character Belly’s dormitory. You can also find the exact location of the emotional “Lacy” scene outside Old West.
- Where to Eat & Drink: For a taste of the local filming crew’s favorites, visit Top of the Hill Restaurant and Brewery (TOPO). For a unique treat, Epilogue Books Chocolate Brews offers Mexican-inspired sweets alongside specialty chocolate beverages.
- Where to Stay: The historic Carolina Inn provides a luxurious stay and served as the setting for the conference scenes involving Belly’s parents in the show’s first season.
New Bern: Where History Meets Romance
New Bern, the original capital of North Carolina, offers a bridge between historical reality and literary fiction. It is a central setting for several Nicholas Sparks novels, including The Notebook , and provides deep historical context for the Outlander franchise.
- Historical Immersion: Tryon Palace offers a glimpse into the 18th century. While Outlander is set largely in Scotland, the series weaves North Carolina’s colonial history into its narrative, making this site a must-visit for fans.
- Waterfront Views: To experience the scenery that inspired Where the Crawdads Sing , take a boat tour through the estuaries and swamps of the Croatan National Forest.
- Dining & Lodging: Enjoy local flavors at Lawson’s On The Creek or creative small plates at Cypress Hall. For an elegant stay, the Aerie Bed & Breakfast offers a preserved Victorian atmosphere.
Wilmington: “Hollywood East”
Wilmington is the undisputed heavyweight of North Carolina filming. Nicknamed “Wilmywood,” the city has been a mainstay for productions since the 1980s, ranging from Dawson’s Creek to various blockbusters.
Exploring the City and Coast
The city’s charm lies in its blend of colonial history and modern coastal life:
– Historical Tours: The Burgwin-Wright House offers a look at the gritty colonial era seen in Outlander.
– Literary Hubs: Visit Old Books on Front Street (a location used in Sleepy Hollow ) or Papercut Books, which served as the “Whale of a Tale” bookstore in The Summer I Turned Pretty.
– Coastal Vibes: Wrightsville Beach provides the iconic white sands seen in Dawson’s Creek, while the Wilmington Riverwalk features the famous “Naley bench” from One Tree Hill.
Dining and Staying in the Cape Fear Region
- Eats: Dine at Elijah’s (the setting for Pacey’s restaurant in Dawson’s Creek ) or catch the sunset at Oceanic on Crystal Pier, the site of a major engagement in The Summer I Turned Pretty.
- Stay: ARRIVE Wilmington is a boutique option featuring a courtyard gazebo used in several filming scenes.
Southport: The Quintessential Coastal Set
Southport offers a more relaxed, small-town atmosphere that has made it a favorite for romantic thrillers and coastal dramas alike. It served as the primary location for Safe Haven and provided the backdrop for A Walk to Remember .
- Local Flavor: Enjoy seafood at Fishy Fishy Café or a laid-back lunch at the Provision Company.
- Where to Stay: The Southport Carriage House Inn, a restored 1935 brick bed and breakfast, puts you within walking distance of the town’s most scenic spots.
🗺️ Travel Logistics
To maximize your cinematic tour, the most efficient route is to:
1. Fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to begin in Chapel Hill.
2. Rent a car to navigate the 30-minute to two-hour drives between New Bern, Wilmington, and Southport.
3. Fly out of Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to avoid the long drive back to Raleigh.
Summary: North Carolina’s diverse geography—from historic university campuses to rugged coastal estuaries—provides a rich, multi-layered landscape that continues to captivate filmmakers and travelers alike.
