Fun Things to Do in Wilmington, NC + One Tree Hill Tour!

When it comes to TV shows, I may watch a lot of them but only a few really capture my attention and love. Like many other females my age, One Tree Hill did that for several years and became a staple to my weeknights while I was in school. When One Tree Hill ended, as did some of my heart. Dramatic? Maybe. True? Absolutely. In fact, OTH is one of the first things me and one of my best friends bonded over, so when we were talking about making our way to Myrtle Beach and realize that Wilmington was kind of sort of on our way home, we knew we needed to make it work.

Wilmington, North Carolina, also known as Tree Hill, still resembles the show, and some of the buildings are still around. We didn’t want to spend a crazy amount of time here (actually—yes, we did, but we couldn’t) since we were only driving through, so we hit some of the big landmarks. Eventually, we hope to make it back for a full-day tour and see all of the sights.

A little bit about Wilmington before we dive in. Wilmington, North Carolina, is a city with a rich and complex history and is full of southern charm. Founded in 1739, Wilmington became an important port city and played a significant role in the history of the Cape Fear region. Its historical significance includes its role in the Civil War, as well as being a major center for Confederate blockade runners. Today, Wilmington’s historic downtown area is known for its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets, reflecting the city’s deep historical roots.

In addition to its historical significance, Wilmington boasts a vibrant culture with a strong emphasis on the arts. The city is home to various cultural institutions, museums, art galleries, and theaters, providing a diverse array of artistic experiences for residents and visitors alike. Wilmington’s cultural scene is further enriched by its annual festivals, music events, and thriving local music and theater communities, making it a dynamic and lively city with a unique blend of history and culture.

Things to Do

Wilmington, or “Tree Hill,” is a city with a rich and complex history. Visitors can explore the downtown area’s cobblestone streets and historic architecture, which testify to the city’s deep historical roots. The Cape Fear region also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as river cruises, scenic waterfront walks, and visits to nearby beaches, providing a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

There are three beautiful beaches in Wilmington, all of them are less than 30-minutes from downtown. 

Wrightsville Beach has the Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier, which is over 1,200 feet into the ocean and perfect for fishermen because of the tackle shop and seasonal snack bar. From the beach, you can take a ferry or paddle to the undisrupted barrier-island of Masonboro Island Reserve. The island beaches are beautiful! You can book a history tour to learn more about this area. 

Kure Beach is known for stunning views of Conquina rocks during low tide to find these unique shell and coral formations. Also has a fishing pier with an arcade, ice cream shop and beautiful views 

Carolina Beach State Park is a beautiful and well-maintained beach with 50-foot sand dunes, and locations to camp, hike, and bike, and spend a day on the beach. 

Tasting History Tours in Wilmington, NC offer a unique exploration of the city’s culinary and cultural heritage. This guided tour provides participants with the opportunity to sample a variety of local beer or wine while learning about the history and significance of Wilmington. In addition to the delicious tastings, the tour also provides insights into the city’s history, architecture, and local landmarks, making it a fantastic way to experience Wilmington’s rich cultural tapestry. If you enjoy good drinks and are a history buff, this is the tour for you! 

The Wilmington Railroad Museum is a popular attraction for local history and interactive exhibits. It is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad industry in the region. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including vintage railcars, locomotives, and model train displays. Visitors can learn about the impact of the railroad on the local economy and its role in shaping the city’s development. The museum offers an educational and enjoyable experience for people of all ages who are interested in trains and railroad history.

Walk along the Wilmington Riverwalk. The views are amazing, there are shops and restaurants along the way, and it’s famous in One Tree Hill, which you will see about below! This scenic boardwalk is the perfect way to take a leisurely stroll in the afternoon. 

Airlie Gardens, located in Wilmington, NC, is a beautiful 67-acre garden that features a variety of stunning landscapes, including formal gardens, walking trails, and freshwater lakes. Take a walk through the Butterfly House to see North Carolina native butterflies landing on you as you walk. 

The Cameron Art Museum, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a vibrant arts institution that showcases a diverse range of artwork. It features a wide array of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Additionally, the museum often hosts educational programs, community events, and temporary exhibitions that further enrich the local arts scene. With its focus on engaging and inspiring visitors, the Cameron Art Museum serves as a valuable cultural resource for both residents and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the enchanting beauty of the gardens, which are home to thousands of azaleas, camellias, and magnolias, as well as historic structures dating back to the 19th century. Airlie Gardens offers a tranquil and picturesque escape for nature enthusiasts, with its unique blend of horticulture, wildlife, and cultural heritage. It

Museum of the Bizarre is only $3 for admission and is a very strange place to see, but worth it if you have the time! 

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area is home to protected areas for loggerhead sea turtles and 6 miles of protected shoreline. You will also find the North Carolina Aquarium on site. 

Cameron Art Museum is a vibrant arts institution that showcases a diverse range of artwork. It features a wide array of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Additionally, the museum often hosts educational programs, community events, and temporary exhibitions that further enrich the local arts scene. With its focus on engaging and inspiring visitors, the Cameron Art Museum serves as a valuable cultural resource for both residents and tourists alike.

The New Hanover County Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden showcasing a wide variety of plant species. The arboretum offers visitors an opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse plant life in the area. With its well-maintained gardens, educational programs, and events, it’s a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. I highly recommend participating in one of the garden tours! 

Tour the Battleship North Carolina which previously participated in every major naval offense during World War II. 

The Bellamy Mansion Museum is a historic house located in Wilmington, North Carolina. It was built between 1859 and 1861 and is a blend of neoclassical and Italianate architectural styles. Today, the mansion is open to the public as a museum, offering guided tours that provide insight into the history of the Bellamy family and the antebellum South. The museum also hosts various events and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

The Cape Fear Museum of History is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Cape Fear region. The museum features exhibits on a wide range of topics including local history, science, and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the rich history of the area to life. Whether you’re interested in maritime history, civil war artifacts, or the natural environment of the region, the Cape Fear Museum offers something for everyone.

See a show at Thalian Hall. Look into their calendar prior to planning your trip; it’s a beautiful venue! 

The Cape Fear Riverboat tour offers a delightful experience for exploring the scenic Cape Fear River. On this tour, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and its surrounding natural beauty while learning about the area’s history and wildlife. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind while being immersed in the charm of the Cape Fear region. You could also look into a private sailing tour, sunset cruise or an island hopper tour. I always recommend a boat tour if you are visiting someone on the water! It’s such a unique vantage point. 

Head to the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. The park features a water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, providing a refreshing retreat on hot summer days. In addition to the water attractions, Jungle Rapids also offers mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, an arcade, and a climbing wall, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a more relaxed day out, Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park promises a fun-filled experience for the whole family.

Take surfing lessons with your kids. You will find several companies who offer surfing lessons for all ages in Wilmington! 

Rent a kayak or canoe, or charter a boat for a day on the water, or if you want to see downtown, rent a bike or a pub trolley. There are also many self-guided tour options in the downtown area as well! 

While in my eyes, one of the best things about Wilmington to for visiting One Tree Hill sights, however, it’s actually been the home to over 60 movies and television shows! If you are interested in a film tour, this is a great way to see lots of the famous sights in a short amount of time! 

Where to Stay

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in one of Wilmington’s historic homes which are now bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels located in the heart of the downtown area. These accommodations offer a unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich history while enjoying modern comforts. Alternatively, visitors can opt for beachfront resorts or vacation rentals for a more relaxed coastal stay.

Where to Eat

Wilmington’s culinary scene is as diverse as its cultural offerings. From cozy cafes and seafood shacks to upscale restaurants, the city has something to satisfy every palate. For a taste of Southern hospitality and fresh seafood, be sure to explore the waterfront dining options. Additionally, the city’s vibrant food truck scene and local farmers’ markets offer a wide range of culinary delights for food enthusiasts.

For fresh catch of the day and/or farm to table:

• Catch – 4.6 stars, modern Seafood 
• Salt Fish Restaurant and Bar – 4.8 stars, Island Cuisine located in Carolina Beach
• RX Chicken and Oysters – 4.6, a stylish, converted drug store servicing seafood and local cuisine 
• Seabird – 4.7 stars, seafood and mindfully prepared meals 
• G Prime Steak & Cellar – 4.3 stars, American steakhouse
• Olivero – 4.7 stars, cocktails and American cuisine 

On the Riverwalk:

• Anne Bonny’s Bar and Grill – 4.5 stars, American grill and seafood 
• Rooster & The Crow – 4.7 stars, Southern cooking
• Pilot House – 4.3 stars, Seafood with a southern flair 
• Michael’s on the Waterfront  – 4.5 stars, American dining
• The George on the Riverwalk – 4 stars, Southern cooking 

For great views: 

• aView Rooftop Bistro – 4.2 stars, American dining 
• Bluewater Waterfront Grill – 4.4 stars, seafood restaurant
• Tequila’s Waterfront – 4.1 stars, Mexican Restaurant 

Coffee:

I don’t travel to a new place without first mapping out all the coffee shops I want to visit! 

• 24 South Coffee House – I love their motto, “Life is short. Stay awake” 
• Bespoke Coffee 
• Bitty & Beau’s Coffee House – I’ve visited multiple locations and absolutely love the mission behind this company! 
• Brooklyn Cafe & Market
• Concorde Espresso Bar
• Crush & Grind
• Drift Coffee (Wrightsville Beach, Front Street)

Breweries:

Breweries are popping up all over Wilmington, so be sure to check out this post from Wilmington and Beaches prior to your trip to see which ones have recently opened! A few that caught my eye: 

• Flytrap Brewing pays tribute to the Venus Flytraps, which are local to the 60-mile radius of Wilmington! The Venus Flytraps are carnivorous plants with an interesting role in the ecosystem. Such a fun idea for a brewery! 
• Edward Teach Brewing is located in a historic firehouse. Their Teaches Peaches Peach Wheat has me drooling from 400 miles away! 

Now for the grand finale, all the One Tree Hill things! 

Our first stop- The Bench. This is where Haley met Nathan to study and he gave her a Cracker Jack box along the Riverfront. We were a little nervous that we wouldn’t be able to find it, quickly realizing that the signatures ALL around the bench make it obvious. This bench is right next to the Visitors Center along the Riverwalk. The lady at the Visitors desk was full of knowledge about everything we should do and see, and she gave us coupons with a map.

Next we walked by Black Cat Records, which is still a store and now sells records along with touristy items. We had a coupon, but the nice lady told us that Krazy Mikes was the place to go to purchase One Tree Hill goodies. Thankfully it was right across the street. We spent a good 20 minutes trying to find the perfect One Tree Hill items to purchase.

We then made our way down the road to what used to be Karen’s cafe & Clothes Over Bros. This was the only disappointment of the day because it’s now a sporting goods store. The only thing left of the building from the show are the doors and windows. No awning, no tables, no desk. Just a photo on the counter of what each looked like.

To cheer ourselves up a bit, it was time to get tattoos! I mentioned this is my vlog, but this is how it happened. Gina, Jenn and I were all talking about our love for One Tree Hill and how it meant a lot to us. We were all so excited to step foot in Tree Hill and couldn’t wait to get there. We tossed the idea around all weekend, and Cara found a place in historic downtown Wilmington to make it happen. Thankfully, they were open and had time to tattoo all 4 of us. Friends who get spare-of-the-moment tattoos with you are the best – we all got “23” tattoos, but not where Haley got hers 🙂 

After our tattoos, we needed some drinks so we had a great meal and good beers at the Front Street Brewery. Then headed to our car to travel to the houses. We only made it to three of them, but again there are more in our future! First, we went to Brookes House, which was about 10 minutes out of the way, but worth it!

Brooke’s house- 2341 Tattersalls Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403

Peyton and Haley’s houses are right next to each other, which worked out really well. We took photos in front of them and remembered amazing scenes from these locations, like the Nathan and Haley kiss in the rain in front of her house or the girl fight in Peyton’s front yard. Oh, the memories…it’s like we were there!

Peyton- 1901 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, NC 28405

Haley- 1811 Chestnut St., Wilmington, NC 28405

Our last stop was the bridge from the opening credits. This is another piece of history in Tree Hill and had signatures of fans from all over it. With only 2 hours in Wilmington (minus the tattoo time) I would say we made out pretty well. I can’t wait to go back!

In conclusion, the Wilmington area of North Carolina is a city that effortlessly weaves together its historical significance with a thriving arts and cultural scene, offering visitors a truly unique and enriching experience. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, vibrant arts community, or picturesque waterfront, Wilmington is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire all who visit.

Did you watch One Tree Hill? Who was your favorite?