Top 10 Must-Visit Movie Locations in North Carolina: Explore the Film Set Behind Your Favorite Scenes

Lights, Camera, Action! Discover North Carolina's Iconic Movie Spots

From heartwarming dramas to thrilling action flicks, North Carolina's diverse landscapes have provided the perfect backdrop for a wide array of cinematic masterpieces. Here are 10 must-visit movie locations that will transport you right into the heart of your favorite scenes:  

Lake Lure (Dirty Dancing): No one puts Baby in a corner, especially not at Lake Lure! This picturesque lake and the surrounding area served as the primary filming location for the beloved 1987 classic, Dirty Dancing. While the original camp is no longer there, you can still visit the lake, take a boat tour, and even attend the annual Dirty Dancing Festival.  

Biltmore Estate, Asheville (Forrest Gump, Being There, The Last of the Mohicans): This grand estate has played host to numerous productions. In Forrest Gump, it served as the backdrop for Forrest's wedding. You might also recognize it from scenes in "Being There" and "The Last of the Mohicans". Explore the mansion and its stunning grounds for a taste of Hollywood history.  

Chimney Rock State Park (The Last of the Mohicans): The dramatic rock formations and breathtaking vistas of Chimney Rock provided the stunning backdrop for key scenes in the epic historical drama, The Last of the Mohicans. Hike to the top for panoramic views and imagine Daniel Day-Lewis navigating the rugged terrain.  

Henry River Mill Village (The Hunger Games): Step into the dystopian world of Panem by visiting the abandoned Henry River Mill Village, which served as District 12 in the first Hunger Games movie. While some sets have been removed, the eerie atmosphere remains, offering a unique glimpse into the film's setting.  

Wilmington Riverwalk (Dawson's Creek, One Tree Hill, Iron Man 3): Known as "Wilmywood," Wilmington has a rich film and television history. The Riverwalk is a recognizable location from numerous productions, including the popular teen dramas Dawson's Creek and One Tree Hill, as well as a scene in Iron Man 3.  

Southport (Safe Haven, A Walk to Remember, Crimes of the Heart): This charming coastal town has served as the quintessential Southern backdrop for several romantic dramas, most notably Nicholas Sparks' "Safe Haven" and "A Walk to Remember," as well as the classic "Crimes of the Heart." Stroll through its quaint streets and waterfront for a taste of cinematic charm.  

Durham Athletic Park (Bull Durham): Baseball fans will recognize this historic ballpark from the iconic sports comedy, Bull Durham. While it's no longer home to professional baseball, the park is still open and hosts various events, allowing you to step onto the field where Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon shared the screen.  

Grandfather Mountain (Forrest Gump): Remember the scenic mountain road where Forrest kept on running? That iconic stretch of highway is located on Grandfather Mountain along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Boone. Enjoy the stunning views and even drive the same route Forrest did.

Battleship North Carolina, Wilmington (Various Productions): This historic World War II battleship has served as a dramatic backdrop for numerous films and television shows. Explore its decks and imagine being part of a wartime epic.  

Pisgah National Forest (The Hunger Games): The vast and beautiful Pisgah National Forest provided the wilderness setting for various scenes in The Hunger Games. Hike through its trails and imagine Katniss Everdeen navigating the treacherous arena.  

Embark on Your North Carolina Film Adventure!

From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina offers a diverse range of movie locations just waiting to be explored. Whether you're a die-hard fan of a specific film or simply love the magic of Hollywood, planning a trip to these iconic spots is a fantastic way to combine your love for movies and travel. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to step into the film set of your dreams in the beautiful state of North Carolina!