Long before The Summer I Turned Pretty brought new national attention to North Carolina locations, the state had already earned the nickname “Hollywood’s East” for its history as a popular filming destination. While Wilmington is often thought of first for TV and movie shoots, production has also taken place in the Triad and across the state.

From award-nominated films and classic comedies to beloved teen dramas and Netflix hits, North Carolina has served as the backdrop for a wide range of movies and television shows. Fans and visitors can explore historic streets, coastal beaches, university campuses, stadiums, and scenic natural settings that have appeared on screen.

Movies and TV Shows Filmed in the NC Triad

Winston-Salem and the surrounding Triad communities have hosted a surprising number of productions over the years, thanks to their historic architecture, diverse landscapes, and film-friendly locations.

Junebug (2005)

This Academy Award-nominated film starring Amy Adams was filmed largely in Winston-Salem. Viewers can spot Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and several local churches throughout the movie. Junebug remains one of the most recognizable films shot in the Triad.

The Longest Ride (2015)

Based on the Nicholas Sparks novel, this romantic drama filmed scenes at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum and across the Wake Forest University campus. The Triad’s mix of collegiate and rural settings made it a perfect fit for the story.

Leatherheads (2008)

Directed by and starring George Clooney, this 1920s football film used Winston-Salem locations for period-appropriate shots that helped recreate early professional football settings.

Are You Here (2013)

Starring Owen Wilson, Zach Galifianakis, and Amy Poehler, this comedy filmed throughout the Triad. One of the most recognizable local spots featured is Recreation Billiards in downtown Winston-Salem.

Mr. Destiny (1990)

This cult classic starring James Belushi and Michael Caine filmed key baseball scenes at the former Ernie Shore Field, now known as David F. Couch Ballpark. The location plays a pivotal role in the film.

Madhouse (2010)

This History Channel reality series focused on the intense world of modified racing at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, bringing national attention to one of the most iconic short tracks in the country..

A Little Prayer (2023)

Written and directed by Winston-Salem native Angus MacLachlan, this indie film was shot entirely in Winston-Salem and nearby areas such as East Bend. It showcases the region’s modern and historic settings.

Old Salem Film Locations

Old Salem is a frequent filming location for period pieces thanks to its beautifully preserved 18th-century architecture. Most recently, it appeared in Oscar Wilde About America (2024), continuing its long history as a go-to backdrop for historical productions.

Movies and TV Shows Filmed Elsewhere in North Carolina

Beyond the Triad, North Carolina has hosted countless iconic productions, making it one of the most filmed states in the Southeast.

The Hunger Games (2012)

Several arena scenes were filmed in western North Carolina, including DuPont State Recreational Forest. Triple Falls is a popular filming location that fans still visit today.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Although the famous lift scene was filmed in Virginia, much of Dirty Dancing was shot in Lake Lure, North Carolina. Filming locations include Camp Chimney Rock and the Esmeralda Inn.

Forrest Gump (1994)

Scenes were filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains, including the famous “Forrest Gump Curve” on Grandfather Mountain. Visitors can still see the exact filming spot today.

The Last of the Mohicans (1992)

Chimney Rock State Park served as the dramatic setting for the film’s climactic final scenes, making it one of the most recognizable filming locations in North Carolina.

One Tree Hill (2003-2012)

Filmed entirely in and around Wilmington, this long-running television series helped solidify the city’s reputation as a major filming hub. Many filming locations are still popular tourist stops.

Bull Durham (1988)

This baseball classic was filmed primarily in Durham, North Carolina, including scenes at the historic Durham Athletic Park.

Why North Carolina Is a Top Filming Destination

North Carolina continues to attract filmmakers thanks to its diverse scenery, historic towns, coastal views, mountain landscapes, and film-ready cities. The state offers unmatched versatility for both movies and television shows.

Whether you’re a film buff, a local history lover, or planning a North Carolina road trip, visiting filming locations across the Triad and beyond is a fun way to see familiar places through a cinematic lens.

Written by TMoM Blogger, Emi Sano updated by Kodia Byers

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