North Carolina in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive from Wilmington, the town of Southport offers a charming glimpse into cinematic history with its coastal streets and waterfront views that appeared in films like “Safe Haven.” Situated about 45 minutes south of Wilmington, Southport invites visitors to stroll its historic waterfront, enjoy quaint shops, and absorb the small-town charm that has attracted filmmakers. The town’s scenic marina and well-preserved 19th-century architecture provide a peaceful backdrop that feels like stepping into a movie set. Visiting in spring or fall enhances the experience, as mild weather and fewer crowds make wandering the historic district even more enjoyable.
Heading inland, the lush beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville has drawn filmmakers for decades. Just 30 minutes northwest of Asheville, Craggy Gardens along the Parkway features a relatively easy 1.5-mile loop trail that leads to sweeping overlooks and fields of rhododendrons in bloom. This area provided the stunning mountain vistas seen in “The Hunger Games.” The combination of high elevation, vibrant wildflowers, and rugged mountain scenery sets Craggy Gardens apart from other trails. Visiting in late spring or early summer reveals its full floral glory, while autumn offers a fiery display of fall colors against the same dramatic ridgelines.
In the western part of the state, the town of Marshall near Asheville is a quiet gem for fans of the classic film “Dirty Dancing.” Located about 25 minutes northeast of Asheville, this small town’s surrounding areas feature rolling hills and pastoral landscapes that inspired the movie’s lakeside scenes. The nearby Lake Junaluska, with its serene waters and walking trails, offers a peaceful place to reflect on the film’s enduring romance. Early autumn is a wonderful time to visit, when the warm colors of the forest framing the lake add an extra layer of magic reminiscent of the movie’s setting.
Moving east, the historic district of New Bern, roughly 90 minutes east of Raleigh, has served as a backdrop for several period films and TV shows. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and the beautiful waterfront along the Neuse River, New Bern invites visitors to explore the Tryon Palace gardens and the charming downtown streets. This city’s blend of history and southern charm made it an ideal filming location for projects requiring an authentic colonial or antebellum ambiance. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions to wander the outdoor spaces and enjoy river views while soaking up the town’s cinematic atmosphere.
In the heart of Charlotte, the Uptown district has become a popular filming location for contemporary TV shows such as “Homeland” and “One Tree Hill.” Just minutes from the city center, visitors can take in the sleek skyline, modern venues, and urban parks that give the city its dynamic character. Romare Bearden Park, with its beautifully landscaped gardens and views of the skyscrapers, offers a scenic spot to imagine scenes playing out against the backdrop of Charlotte’s bustling streets. Evening visits are especially rewarding when the city lights create a vibrant, cinematic glow that brings the urban setting to life.
Venturing to the Outer Banks, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, about two hours east of Elizabeth City, served as a key location in the film “Nights in Rodanthe.” The seashore’s dramatic dunes, wild beaches, and iconic lighthouse stand as a breathtaking natural stage. Visitors can hike along the sandy trails or explore the historic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the country. The seashore’s raw beauty and peaceful isolation make it a unique coastal experience unlike any other on the East Coast. Early morning or late afternoon light here is especially captivating, accentuating the windswept landscapes that filmmakers sought to capture.
Finally, Chapel Hill’s University of North Carolina campus, about 30 minutes west of Raleigh, has been featured in multiple films and TV shows, including “The Lucky One.” The university’s historic campus features classic collegiate Gothic architecture, shaded quads, and expansive lawns that create a quintessential academic atmosphere. Visitors can walk the campus paths, visit the Morehead Planetarium, and admire the iconic Old Well—an inviting spot that appears in countless photographs and on-screen scenes. Springtime, when the dogwoods bloom and students fill the walkways, is the perfect season to experience the lively spirit and historic beauty that make this university a favored filming location.