Discover Wilmington: Historic Sites, Ocean Views, and Iconic TV Locations

I had an absolute blast catching Wrabel, Andy Grammar, and Gavin DeGraw in concert in Charlotte—the energy was electric! After an incredible day in Charlotte, my friends and I drove 200 kms east back to the port city of Wilmington, North Carolina.

After the fast-paced, high-energy vibes of the live shows, I needed to slow things down a bit and was happy to be spending a few days in Wilmington, North Carolina, with my friend Samantha.

In Wilmington, we enjoyed a slower-paced weekend, enjoying the ocean, exploring local shops and restaurants, the historic Riverwalk, and many filming locations from the TV show One Tree Hill. It was like blending a rocking guitar solo with a mellow beach jam—unexpectedly perfect.

Finding the right place to stay is crucial – this time I didn’t have to worry about hotels, I was lucky to stay with my friend Samantha, which meant that I had a comfy place to sleep and my own personal tour-guide!

For those without local friends here are my top five Wilmington hotel recommendations:

1. Blockade Runner Beach Resort: Located on Wrightsville Beach, this resort offers stunning ocean views, a full-service spa, and easy access to the beach. Perfect for those who want to unwind by the sea.
2. Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton: Situated along the Cape Fear River, this hotel blends historic charm with modern amenities. Don’t miss the rooftop bar with panoramic views of the river and downtown.
3. Dreamers Welcome: For a more intimate experience, this boutique bed and breakfast in a historic Victorian home is ideal. Each room is uniquely decorated, offering a cozy, personalized stay.
4. The Verandas: This elegant bed and breakfast in a restored 1853 mansion is perfect for history buffs. The luxurious rooms and gourmet breakfasts add a touch of sophistication to your stay.
5. Hampton Inn Wilmington Downtown: Centrally located, this hotel offers convenience and comfort. It’s an excellent base for exploring the city’s attractions and nightlife.

Wilmington is packed with attractions that cater to a variety of interests. Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m obsessed with the ocean – and whenever I’m anywhere that is even remotely close to the ocean, I have to visit. There’s nothing like feeling the sand between my toes and listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves to help ground and energize me —and if I can time it to coincide with sunrise or sunset, I will.

Here are five must-see and do activities:

1. Historic Downtown Wilmington: Stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved architecture. Don’t miss the Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk along the Cape Fear River lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
2. Battleship North Carolina: Climb aboard this World War II battleship turned museum. Explore the ship’s decks, quarters, and exhibits for a fascinating glimpse into naval history.
3. Airlie Gardens: These lush gardens span over 67 acres, featuring picturesque landscapes, historic structures, and seasonal blooms. The butterfly house is a must-visit for nature lovers.
4. Wrightsville Beach: Just a short drive from downtown, Wrightsville Beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun. For me, a must-do is a trip to the ocean and a walk along the beach at sunset. The stunning colors and serene atmosphere are unforgettable.
5. Bellamy Mansion Museum: This antebellum mansion offers a glimpse into Wilmington’s past. Take a guided tour to learn about its history, architecture, and the lives of those who lived and worked there.

And for TV fans, Wilmington offers the exciting option to tour filming locations and sets for many popular TV shows, including Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill, Under the Dome, and more. It’s a fun way to see the city through the lens of your favourite shows and relive some iconic scenes.

One Tree Hill Locations: A Fan’s Guide

If you’re a One Tree Hill fan, and are feeling nostalgic, be sure to check out some of the most iconic locations from the show:

1. Tree Hill High School: The exterior shots for Tree Hill High were filmed at Cape Fear Community College. It’s a must-see for any fan wanting to relive those high school drama moments.
2. Karen’s Café/Clothes Over Bros: Located at 300 North Front Street, this spot served as the set for both Karen’s Café and Brooke’s fashion boutique. It’s now occupied by other businesses, but it’s still a fun stop for fans.
3. River Court: This iconic riverside basketball court, where many key scenes were filmed, was located at the intersection of Battleship Road and Cowan Street. Although the court was taken down, the location remains a pilgrimage site for fans.
4. Naley’s Bench: The bench where Nathan and Haley often sat is at Greenfield Lake Park. It’s a beautiful spot for a quiet moment or a photo op.
5. Brooke’s House: The gorgeous home of Brooke Davis is located at 2314 Tattersalls Drive. It’s privately owned, so be respectful, but it’s a great place for a quick snapshot from the sidewalk.
6. Tric Nightclub: Though Tric was a central hub for many characters, the interior scenes were primarily filmed on sets. However, the exterior shots were filmed at a real location, now known as Pravda Nightclub at 23 North Front Street.
7. Nathan & Haley’s Houses: The houses of Nathan Scott and Haley James Scott were located at 118 Skystasail Drive and 2709 Middle Sound Loop Drive, respectively. These are private residences, so while you can admire them from the street, remember to respect the residents’ privacy.
8. Peyton’s Record Store: While the interior shots were on set, the exterior shots of Peyton Sawyer’s record store, “Red Bedroom Records,” were filmed at the Soapbox Laundro Lounge, now defunct, at 255 North Front Street.
9. Blue Post Billiards: This iconic hangout spot for the characters was located at 15 South Water Street. While it’s no longer functioning as Blue Post Billiards, you can still visit the location and reminisce about memorable scenes.
10. Clay & Quinn’s Beach House: The picturesque beach house of Clay Evans and Quinn James is located at 6208 West Beach Drive. While it’s a private residence, fans can still admire its beauty from the beach.

These locations offer fans a chance to step into the world of One Tree Hill and relive some of their favourite moments from the beloved series. Remember to be respectful of private property and businesses while visiting these sites.

Foodie Favorites: Where to Eat in Wilmington

Wilmington’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Here are five restaurants you absolutely must try:

1. Catch: Renowned for its fresh seafood and Southern flavours, Catch is a culinary gem. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the creative dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate – if you are lucky enough to be able to eat seafood.
2. Savorez: This vibrant eatery offers a fusion of Latin American and Southern cuisine. The inventive menu, featuring dishes like shrimp ceviche and arepas, makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
3. The Basics: Located in the Cotton Exchange, The Basics serves up classic Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Their shrimp and grits are a must-try!
4. Rx Restaurant and Bar: This farm-to-table restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients, offering a seasonal menu that highlights the best of North Carolina’s produce. The cozy ambiance and creative cocktails make it a great spot for dinner.
5. Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park: This may sound unconventional, but their snack bar serves some surprisingly tasty treats. Enjoy a casual meal after a day of fun activities like mini-golf, go-karts, and water slides.

Wrapping Up: From Concerts to Coastal Charm

My whirlwind adventure from Charlotte’s electric concert scene to Wilmington’s coastal charm was a journey of contrasts that blended seamlessly. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, lounging on the beach, or indulging in local cuisine, Wilmington offers something for everyone –

filled with more discoveries, delights, and yes, more craft beers and seafood (not that I could enjoy that) than you can shake a surfboard at.

Ready to experience the magic of Wilmington for yourself? Share your travel plans or must-visit spots in the comments below!