Little did I know about the charming riverside town of Wilmington. Until I learned that is where my favorite show (One Tree Hill) was filmed! I realized this when I saw an event hosted by Friends with Benefit where you could meet the stars of the show. I was surprised, but excited about the news, so I bought myself a ticket and have driven down three times now. Though I am partially biased because of the show having a special place in my heart, I fell in love with Wilmington. It was perfect, having the riverwalk with shops and eateries, combined with Wrightsville and Carolina Beach both a short drive away. Other filmography here includes Dawson’s Creek, The Summer I Turned Pretty, Safe Haven, and Outer Banks.
Some of my favorite stops include:
New Hanover County Arboretum – 7 acres of flowers and a Japanese garden featuring a Koi pond
Wilmington Riverwalk – boardwalk nearly 2 miles long, hosting cute boutiques, an array of markets, outdoor cafes, small shops, art galleries, and spectacular view of the water
Kure Beach – located at the bottom of the beach is a parking lot where we pulled over to get a pretty view of the sun setting from a nearby gazebo
Wrightsville Beach – 4.5 miles long, east of Wilmington, where you will find Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier and waterfront dining
Blue Post Billiards – a small bar with pool, arcade games, and cozy seating right in the center of town
Tric – a main filming spot from the show, open for tours and charity fundraisers, currently being turned into a bar/nightclub
The Cotton Exchange – complex with 20+ eateries/shops
Other recommendations to try:
Airlie Gardens – 67 acre botanical gardens with The Bottle Chapel art installation and Butterfly House
Carolina Beach/boardwalk – home to a 10-story gondola wheel, carnival rides, an arcade, dining, shopping, bars, and live music/fireworks every Thursday during the summer at the gazebo
Old Wilmington City Market – specialty gift shops and bookshops
SUNdays – cafe with beer, wine, acai bowls, and coffee, steps away from Crystal Pier
Historic Downtown Wilmington Artisan Market – held on Sundays from 10am-3pm, with the option to purchased handcrafted goods and unique artwork
Alcove Beer Garden – indoor/outdoor full liquor bar in the Cargo District
Lumina Station – shopping village with locally owned boutiques and restaurants
Tarantelli’s – upscale Italian restaurant along the riverwalk that offers live music
Carolina Beach Grill & Bar – casual pub featuring sports and food served on the patio
Where to Stay
These suites are an ideal choice, as they are located directly on the riverwalk, giving the rooms on both sides of the building a beautiful view of the water.
Located between downtown and Carolina Beach, this resort offers golf packages and pickleball. It will allow guests to feel comfortable while enjoying its historic charm.
Courtyard by Marriott Carolina Beach
I stayed at this hotel in Carolina Beach when I visited and it was really nice! It is located right on the beach and boardwalk, with a large outdoor pool for the warm seasons.
A Sweet Paradise 