Welcome, my fellow truths! I had the pleasure of heading down to this beautiful, extraordinary state called North Carolina, where barbecue there is like pizza to New York. I embarked on this trip for several reasons: to see friends who have become family, uncover hidden gems such as natural wonders, and visit One Tree Hill. This state has a cultural richness about it that makes it one of the most stunning states. From vibrant cities to breathtaking mountains and serene coastal plains, North Carolina is a treasure trove for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
My male best friend Sebastian and his lovely wife Sydney decided five years ago, after college, to leave New York and relocate to North Carolina. He had been asking me for years to come see his life out there, but life has a way of being busy at times. After everything I went through last year, this year has really been me living, traveling, and seeing where else I could live besides New York. My best friend and his wife got a beautiful home out there, and it was amazing to see his home, his new life out there, and just the growth of having ownership. Boy, did we have a time there! From bars, to lounges, to adventures, and visiting One Tree Hill I’d say this trip was a great reset on seeing what I want in life and tapping more into my outdoor girly side. Here’s a list of things we did there that I would recommend anyone try and explore. NC did me well, and I will definitely go back!
U.S. National Whitewater Center: The world’s premier outdoor center, featuring 1,300 acres to run, paddle, ride, climb, and more, is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This was the ultimate highlight of my trip! I have been tapping into my outdoor girly side, and this brought me fully there! From water rafting to rock climbing to mountain biking, zip-lining, and an advanced obstacle course, this was the perfect way to end my trip. I was active the whole day, lmao. It will tire you out. After I rested for the rest of the day, I spent the entire day there until sunset, and it was to die for! I definitely recommend going when you are in North Carolina.
Address: 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214
Lost & Found : Lose yourself in the music and let loose as we transition from lounge to upbeat dance party in the later evenings at Lost & Found, an elevated neighborhood bar and lounge where you can grab a cocktail or specialty martini after a long day at work, catch a bite with your friends, hear some great live music, get lounge-cozy with a date, or have a great nightlife experience! It was a great way to spend my Saturday night out there. The music was amazing, with an upbeat vibe that got everyone on their toes.
- Address: 332 W. Bland St., Suite E, Charlotte, NC 28203
- Early Girl Eatery:A cute little brunch spot located in downtown Charlotte. I saw so many tik-tocks on their mimosa flights, which were amazing—six different flavors and people. I got southern chicken with mashed potatoes and asparagus that had me cheesing from cheek to cheek throughout the airport.
- Address: 515 S. Tryon St., Suite 104, Charlotte, NC 28203
TRIC Nightclub : Spend some time at the recognizable TRIC Nightclub, which was used during the filming of the beloved series One Tree Hill! You can enter inside and take pictures with replicas from Peyton Sawyer’s bedroom, Red Bedroom Records, Chase’s apartment, and even the original Red Bedroom Records door. At the end of your tour, visit their One Tree Hill souvenir shop to discover unique One Tree Hill merchandise available for purchase. The perfect place for fans to work to keep the Ravens spirit alive:).
House from One Tree Hill: Wilmington, North Carolina, is a coastal city with adorable shops, a small-town charm, and locations from two popular teen dramas: Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill. I’m going to provide a self-guided One Tree Hill tour with you so you may explore the places of One Tree Hill while you’re in Wilmington, as many of them are still standing and accessible for photo ops! Once you step into Wilmington, the nostalgia begins, like you just stepped into the One Tree Hill set and saw all your favorite spots. Find out where the infamous bridge of Lucas dribbling basketball and the homes of Brooke, Lucas, Peyton, Haley, and Nathan lived throughout the show. As a female blogger, this was a major inner child moment that I finally reached because I could reminisce on the fun memories of watching the show and now actually place myself there!
**Please respect the privacy of the genuine families who presently reside in these houses by staying off their property. Your companion is the sidewalk in front of these houses.**
Lucas Scott House: 1829 Wrightsville Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403
Lucas Scott’s one and only residence I can’t believe I was standing just outside of their house. I could even make out the side door, which served as the focal point of every scene involving Brooke, Karen, and Peyton. Seeing everyone use the side door to contact Lucas was really breathtaking. This show had enduring appeal and was genuinely innovative.
unfornately these home are occupied with real families so I can’t just go up on the porch the sidewalk is the most possible to do
Peyton’s House: 1901 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28405
It definitely warmed my heart to be able to view Peyton’s home and room because she was one of my favorite characters on the TV show. She had intelligence, edge, and—most importantly—a compassionate heart, which I adored. Because I have also experienced the unmatched pain of losing a parent, I now feel a connection to her narrative. The rest of my life will be spent learning how to cope with it and recover.
Brooke’s House: 2341 Tattersalls Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403
Nathan House: 1621 Country Club Rd., Wilmington, NC 28403
Nathan + Haley” Don’t Say I Never Gave You Anything” Bench: Across the river just out of the picture is the USS Carolina Battleship, which, of course, is where the River Court used to stand. Because our friendship is one based on so much love, I proposed to Mariah (baby/travel buddy) there in honor of Nathan and Haley’s love <3.
Address: Corner of water and market streets, last bench behind the visitor’s desk.
Intro Credits Bridge : The bridge that Lucas is dribbling across during the opening credits. I wish I had a ball so I could experience the energy like Lucas does because this scene from the intro is so well-known. Of course I had to traverse it similarly to how they do on the show!
Address : 694 N 6th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
I had a terrific time, too! I’m glad I visited, explored, and overcame One Tree Hill. Leave a comment about your trip to North Carolina or recommend any new locations I should check out when I go there again!