Duration: 3 Days
Available: Year-round
With its charming brick-lined streets, historic architecture and sweeping river views, Wilmington has been stealing the spotlight on the silver screen for decades. Known as “Hollywood East” and “Wilmywood,” this vibrant coastal city and its island beaches have served as the backdrop for more than 400 film and television productions – from cult classics to blockbuster movies. This three-day set-jetting itinerary takes you on a star-studded journey to the real-life locations where some of your favorite on-screen moments were filmed.
Day 1
Morning
Breakfast at Dixie Grill
Kick off your journey through Wilmington’s iconic film and movie sites with a stop by Dixie Grill for a hearty breakfast. This diner served as the setting for Sam’s favorite spot in “One Tree Hill,” and it’s where Brooke’s foster child hung out during several episodes. Order Cappy’s Classic for a two-egg breakfast meal with bacon, grits or home fries, and toast.
Morning Activity: Explore the Riverwalk
After breakfast, take a stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk, which serves as the backdrop for many notable scenes. An “Iron Man 3” stunt sequence was filmed along the Cape Fear River and at several other downtown spots. “Scream” also filmed a running scene along this riverside walkway.
Don’t miss the iconic “Naley Bench,” where Nathan gave Haley a Cracker Jack bracelet on “One Tree Hill.” The Black Cat Shoppe, located a few steps off the Riverwalk, was also featured in “One Tree Hill” and now sells merchandise from the show, as well as other movie and TV-themed goodies.
The Alton Lennon Federal Courthouse made an appearance in “Dawson’s Creek,” specifically in the scene where Andie and Pacey kissed for the first time. Those familiar with “Sleepy Hollow” may also recognize the Kenan Memorial Fountain, where Ichabod and Abbie encountered the lost boy.
Afternoon
Lunch at The Basics
Once you’ve taken in all the spots along the Riverwalk, walk over to The Cotton Exchange for lunch at The Basics. If you’ve watched “The Waterfront” on Netflix, you’ll recognize the restaurant from the dinner scene between Wes and Belle.
Early Afternoon Activity: Discover Greenfield Park
After lunch, head to Greenfield Park, a 250-acre park with biking and walking trails nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington. The park has appeared in several shows, serving as the Lost Colony Island in “Sleepy Hollow” and the venue for Lucas and Peyton’s wedding in “One Tree Hill.” It also appeared in many park scenes throughout “Under the Dome.”
Late Afternoon: Drive by Cinespace Studios
Cruise past Cinespace Studios, the filming hub behind many of Wilmington’s most beloved movies and TV shows. The studio has been in operation since 1983 and has helped produce over 400 projects. While public tours aren’t available, it’s worth stopping by to catch a glimpse of the space. “One Tree Hill” fans can drive down One Tree Hill Way and stop for a photo opp with the street sign.
Evening
Dinner at Hell’s Kitchen
Grab dinner at Hell’s Kitchen, a family-owned restaurant and bar that has appeared in two popular TV series. It doubles as Molly’s Market in “Dawson’s Creek” and most recently serves as a lounge area in the second season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty.”
Evening Activity: Drinks and games at Blue Post Billiards
Wrap up your first day of set-jetting in Wilmington with drinks at Blue Post Billiards, a local downtown hangout that has appeared in several productions. Beyond its film fame, the bar is a Wilmington favorite for its quirky character – the tucked-away alley entrance sets the scene, while the game room in the back offers pool and arcade games. If you’ve seen “Tammy,” you’ll recognize it as the barbecue joint in the movie. The 2015 series “Secrets and Lies” also used Blue Post during its first season, and the alleyway to the bar was frequently featured in “Sleepy Hollow.” Lucas and Brooke also visited Blue Post for their first tattoo date in “One Tree Hill.” It’s also a popular destination for spotting local film celebrities, with “One Tree Hill” cast members known to return during their visits back to “Tree Hill,” as well as other Hollywood legends.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast at Bespoke Coffee & Dry Goods
Start your morning with a perfectly brewed latte at Bespoke Coffee in downtown Wilmington. Fans of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” will recognize this charming café as a spot where Belly and Taylor sipped and shared meaningful moments. Pair your drink with a fresh pastry before heading out to explore more of Wilmington’s movie magic.
Morning Activity: Embark on the Wilmywood Movie & TV Location Walk
Join a 90-minute guided movie and TV show location walk to see even more cinematic landmarks of both past and present. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through scenes from “Iron Man 3,” “We’re the Millers,” “Dawson’s Creek,” “One Tree Hill,” “The Conjuring,” “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and more. Along the way, you’ll also hear behind-the-scenes stories about famous actors who filmed here and the local spots where they liked to hang out – whether it’s cast members grabbing a late-night bite downtown or relaxing at favorite bars and cafés between shoots.
Afternoon
Lunch at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria
Grab a slice (or two) of gourmet pizza at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria. “The Summer I Turned Pretty” viewers will spot familiar décor – the unmistakable cheese grater mural – and table settings from the show’s third season. Try the “Big Time” with pepperoni, sausage and hot honey for a flavor combination worthy of a close-up.
Afternoon Activity: Self-Guided Tour of Airlie Gardens
Spend the afternoon wandering through the 67 acres of blooms, live oaks and fountains at Airlie Gardens. The Pergola Garden made appearances in “One Tree Hill” and “Dawson’s Creek,” while Mount Lebanon Chapel provided the exterior for St. Henry’s Parish in “Sleepy Hollow.” “The Choice” also filmed its dreamy wedding sequence here, making it a true romance-on-film destination.
Evening
Dinner at Oceanic in Wrightsville Beach
End your day oceanside at the Oceanic, a restaurant perched right on Wrightsville Beach’s Crystal Pier. “Dawson’s Creek” filmed several scenes along the pier, and you might even recognize views from “Outer Banks.” Those tuning into “The Summer I Turned Pretty” will recognize Oceanic from Season Three when (no spoilers!) Belly and Jeremiah make a big announcement during a family meal. Dine on fresh local seafood as the sun sets over Wrightsville Beach, feeling like you’ve stepped into your own coastal movie scene.
Day 3
Morning
Morning: Venture to Fort Fisher State Recreation Area and Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach
Explore Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, where dunes, maritime forest and pristine beaches have doubled as cinematic backdrops. In “Safe Haven,” this location provided a romantic coastal escape for Alex and Katie’s surf kiss. “Muppets from Space” filmed here, too, with the Muppets waiting on their mother ship near the jetty. Cast members from “Dawson’s Creek” made a surprise appearance in this scene as well!
Just up the road, visit Fort Fisher State Historic Site, whose iconic earthworks and views were featured in “The Summer I Turned Pretty” during Cam and Belly’s Season One bike ride.
Afternoon
Lunch at The Tropical in Carolina Beach
Refuel with fresh, casual fare at The Tropical. While it’s not a filming location itself, it’s a great place to recharge and overlook filming locations like the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, ranked one of the top 10 boardwalks in the country.
Afternoon Activity: Explore Carolina Beach
Take a stroll along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Featuring classic seaside family fun with shops, restaurants and entertainment, the Boardwalk has popped up in “Dawson’s Creek,” “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and “Eastbound & Down.” Grab a sweet treat from the iconic Britt’s Donut Shop (open seasonally) or the Fudgeboat/Krazy Kones.
Make a pit stop at the legendary Fat Pelican, famous for its walk-in cooler stocked with hundreds of beers and for its cameos in “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and “Eastbound & Down.”
Departure
As the final scene of your Wilmington adventure fades to black, you’ll leave with more than just photos – you’ll carry the memories of standing where your favorite characters and Hollywood stars once walked, laughed and fell in love. Until your sequel visit, Wilmington will be ready for its next close-up!
