Charleston Filming Locations for Millennials
Want to plan your own Millennial Summer wander or extend your Millennial Day in Charleston? Here are the must-see Charleston filming locations from The Notebook, plus some other classic Millennial movies to help you create your own movie-moment day in the Lowcountry.
Boone Hall Plantation — 1235 Long Point Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Used as Allie’s summer house in The Notebook. With its famous oak-lined driveway and classic Southern architecture, Boone Hall is one of the most recognizable movie locations in Charleston and is worth a visit for fans of Southern romance films.
Cypress Gardens — 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
Home to the iconic boat scene between Noah and Allie, Cypress Gardens is easily one of the most romantic and memorable filming locations near Charleston. Visitors can rent rowboats to recreate the moment themselves (although we can’t promise any rain).
College of Charleston — 66 George St, Charleston, SC 29424
The College of Charleston doubled as Sarah Lawrence College in the film. Its historic buildings and shaded courtyards offer classic Lowcountry charm and a quick, picturesque stop on your Millennial Day in Charleston.
The American Theatre — 446 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
The setting for Noah and Allie’s first date. This vintage Art Deco building gives serious Charleston nostalgia and makes a perfect photo stop while wandering King Street.
Williams Mansion (formerly Calhoun Mansion) — 14–16 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Used for interior shots of Allie’s family home, this grand mansion captures that timeless Southern Gothic elegance that defines The Notebook. *The mansion has been closed for tours for a while, so check their website before planning to visit. Even if it is closed for tours, you can still walk by the outside.
High Cotton — 199 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
This upscale restaurant served as the filming location for the scene where Noah spots Allie at dinner. Stop in for a cocktail or dessert to soak in the ambiance of this classic Charleston movie spot.
Martins Point Plantation — 2018 Martins Point Rd, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487
This private estate was used for the exterior of the house Noah built for Allie. While it’s not open to the public, it’s an iconic piece of The Notebook legacy and a must-know for film buffs exploring Charleston filming sites. *This is simply a drive-by experience, so if you plan to go, be open to a simple day of driving without the expectation for more.
More Millennial Movie Film Locations to Spot Around Charleston
Beyond The Notebook, Charleston has served as the backdrop for countless other Millennial-era films and shows that bring out the same nostalgic emotion. Here are a few more places that fit the theme — from romantic Sparks settings to coastal favorites.
Bowens Island Restaurant — 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
Used in Dear John for John and Savannah’s first date, this rustic seafood spot delivers coastal charm and sunset views — a perfect romantic detour for Millennial movie fans.
Isle of Palms Pier — 1300 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Featured in Dear John during the pier scene. A relaxed beachside stop that adds breezy coastal energy to your Charleston itinerary.
Joe Riley Waterfront Park — Vendue Range & Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
Also seen in Dear John, this park (home to the famous Pineapple Fountain) offers quintessential Lowcountry views and makes an easy stop for photos between filming locations.
Magnolia Cemetery — 70 Cunnington Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
Featured in Halloween (2018), this hauntingly beautiful cemetery adds a different kind of Millennial nostalgia — a nod to our teen-drama and spooky-season roots.
North Charleston Riverfront Park / Former Navy Base — North Charleston, SC
Appears in some Notebook filming records and more recent projects — a quieter spot for those who like uncovering lesser-known filming gems.
The Citadel Military College — 171 Moultrie Street, Charleston, SC 29409
Used in Dear John for several of John’s military scenes. The striking architecture offers a sense of history and emotional weight that fits perfectly in the Millennial romance genre.
Note for Visitors
Some of these filming locations are on private property. Please be respectful, remain on public grounds, and observe local signage when visiting.
Continue Your Millennial Moments Adventure
Charleston delivers the full cinematic experience — straight out of a Nicholas Sparks movie — but it’s not all about the romance on screen. Take time to fall in love with the city itself as you wander from one filming location to the next. A Millennial Day in Charleston, SC offers a mix of iconic scenes and local gems to help you create your own story in the Lowcountry.
Still craving more Millennial Moments? Explore the full Millennial Summer Travel Guide and start planning your next nostalgic getaway.