Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill Filming Locations in Wilmington, NC
A filming locations guide to Dawson’s Creek & One Tree Hill in Wilmington, North Carolina
Whether you’re extending your Millennial Day in Wilmington or crafting your own nostalgic TV-inspired getaway, this guide includes all the must-see filming locations — complete with addresses, insider notes, and a few extra travel tips to make your wander even more memorable.
Dawson’s Creek Filming Locations in Wilmington, NC
Airlie Gardens — 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
A must-see stop for Dawson’s Creek fans, Airlie Gardens is home to The Ruins and Pergola Garden, where Dawson and Jen shared their first kiss. The romantic scenery and centuries-old live oaks make this one of the most recognizable filming locations in Wilmington.
Joey’s Wall — Corner of Front & Dock Streets
One of the most iconic Dawson’s Creek locations, this is the wall Pacey bought for Joey. To find it, search for “Reel Café” in maps, but don’t go all the way to Reel Cafe. Before you cross Dock Street to Reel Cafe (if you are walking on Front Street), STOP and turn down Dock Street. As soon as you turn, look under the covered patio to your right — you’ll spot the words “Ask Me to Stay” written on the door.
If you are coming from another direction, the most important thing is to make sure you are ON Dock Street (the cobblestone street is your clue).
Hell’s Kitchen — 118 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Used during Dawson’s Creek’s college years, Hell’s Kitchen served as Joey’s workplace alongside Eddie. Today, it’s a real bar and restaurant where you can relive those early-2000s vibes with a drink and a photo in the same booths seen on the show.
Leery’s Fresh Fish — Filmed at Michael’s on the Waterfront, 5 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Fans will recognize Michael’s on the Waterfront as Leery’s Fresh Fish, the restaurant Dawson’s family owned. It’s still an operating restaurant with views of the Cape Fear River — perfect for dinner after a day of exploring filming locations.
Dawson’s House — Private Residence (off Market St, about 20 minutes from downtown)
The actual Leery residence sits on private property along the water. It’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown Wilmington. While you can’t enter, respectful fans often stop by for a quick glimpse from the road.
Bluewater Waterfront Grill — 4 Mariners Alley, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
This waterfront restaurant was used in Dawson’s Creek for the Miss Seabreeze Pageant scene, where Joey performed “On My Own.” It’s still open for lunch, dinner, and cocktails — and offers gorgeous views of the Wrightsville Beach Marina.
Screen Play Video Store — 212 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Formerly Screen Play Video, where Dawson and Pacey worked, this downtown storefront is now home to Nsalo Salon. Stop by for a photo and a wave of nostalgia for simpler, VHS-filled days.
Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp — 2 Ann St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Featured as Pacey’s Icehouse in the series finale of Dawson’s Creek, Elijah’s remains one of Wilmington’s best-known seafood spots. Grab an outdoor table for views of the Cape Fear River while reminiscing about the show’s final moments.
The Original Icehouse — 115 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Before Elijah’s, this location served as the first Icehouse in earlier seasons. Today, you can walk past and imagine Pacey and Joey’s early days together along the waterfront.
University of North Carolina Wilmington — 601 S College Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Used as Capeside High School in Dawson’s Creek, the UNCW campus offers a quick stroll through filming history. While the interiors were repurposed for sets, the exteriors remain familiar to fans.
Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts — 310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401
This historic theater appeared in Dawson’s Creek as The Rialto Theatre, where many pivotal movie scenes took place. It still operates today, hosting live performances and screenings in one of the oldest theaters in the country.
One Tree Hill Filming Locations in Wilmington, NC
Brooke Davis’s House — 2314 Tattersalls Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403
Home to fashion icon Brooke Davis, this quiet neighborhood house is instantly recognizable to One Tree Hill fans. With its classic brick exterior and welcoming red door, it perfectly captured Brooke’s warmth and independence throughout the series. Please be respectful—it’s a private residence.
Lucas Scott’s House — 1829 Carolina St, Wilmington, NC 28403
Located in the heart of Wilmington’s residential district, this cozy white home served as Lucas Scott’s family house. You’ll recognize the porch from countless heartfelt conversations between Lucas, Karen, and Haley. Drive by slowly to snap a quick photo from the sidewalk.
Peyton Sawyer’s House — 1901 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28405
Just a few streets over from Lucas’s, this is Peyton Sawyer’s home — the site of emotional storylines, heartfelt playlists, and open-window confessions. The tree-lined street gives major Tree Hill vibes and is one of the most photographed OTH filming locations in Wilmington.
The Bridge (Harry Forden Bridge) — N 6th St & Hanover St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Featured in the show’s opening credits, this bridge is the heart of One Tree Hill nostalgia. Fans instantly recognize it from the iconic “I don’t wanna be…” intro sequence. Visit at sunset for that same cinematic glow that opened every episode.
TRIC Nightclub — 1121 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Once a warehouse, this building became TRIC, the nightclub where Peyton Sawyer launched her live-music dream and Haley James Scott took the stage. You can still book tours or attend fan events here through the Friends With Benefits Charity Events organization.
Tree Hill High School (Schwartz Center) — 610 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Used as the exterior for Tree Hill High School, the Schwartz Center is part of Cape Fear Community College. You’ll recognize the brick façade and stairway where many pivotal moments between the core five took place.
The Rivercourt — 1 Battleship Rd, Wilmington, NC 28401
Though the original basketball court was dismantled, you can still visit the park where the Rivercourt once stood. Bring your own basketball or simply take in the beautiful view across the Cape Fear River — it’s an emotional spot for any longtime fan.
Karen’s Café — 300 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
The exterior used for Karen’s Café still stands downtown, right on Front Street. Though it’s not a working café today, the storefront remains one of the most popular photo stops for OTH fans retracing the series’ most beloved locations.
Black Cat Shoppe / CD Alley — 8 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Serving as CD Alley, this storefront appeared in One Tree Hill as the record shop where Chris Keller worked and flirted his way into Tree Hill drama. It’s now the Black Cat Shoppe, filled with quirky souvenirs and a perfect stop for nostalgic fans.
Blue Post Billiards — 15 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
This downtown bar set the stage for the tattoo-parlor scene where Brooke and Lucas got their famous matching tattoos. Today, it’s an active pool hall and local hangout — and an easy stop on a walking tour of One Tree Hill filming locations.
Alton Lennon Federal Building & U.S. Courthouse — 2 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401
This striking federal building was featured in multiple scenes across One Tree Hill and Dawson’s Creek. Most memorably, it appeared in the boat-burning sequence early in One Tree Hill — one of the show’s most cinematic moments.
Notes for Wanderers
Many of these filming locations are private residences, so please be mindful of the people who live there. Take your photos from the sidewalk, follow any posted signs, and remember — part of the Wander to Breathe spirit is honoring the spaces we explore.
Go Beyond the Filming Locations in Wilmington
While visiting these Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill filming locations is an unforgettable experience, don’t forget to enjoy Wilmington itself. From charming local shops and waterfront restaurants to the best coffee in town at Maroon Monkey Coffee, this city deserves its own moment in the spotlight.
Want a full itinerary to pair with your filming-location wander? Check out the complete Millennial Day in Wilmington travel guide for insider tips, nostalgic stops, and places that make Wilmington shine beyond the screen.