When One Tree Hill debuted on The WB network on September 23, 2003, it did not take long before it became a sensation. Created by Mark Schwahn, the show managed to hook the viewers on the drama and romance with the backdrop of sports and the lives of the two half-brothers, Lucas Scott and Nathan Scott, portrayed by Chad Michael Murray and James Lafferty.
What captivated the fans of One Tree Hill was the characters' storylines and the outdoor shooting scenes, most of which were shot in Wilmington in the fictional town of Tree Hill in North Carolina. To fans, it is interesting to be informed on the specifics of those areas and streets where the scenes were shot. Let us look at some of the most memorable One Tree Hill filming locations.
One Tree Hill filming locations
1. 6th Street Bridge, Wilmington
The opening credits of any show are memorable, and in One Tree Hill, we see Lucas dribbling a ball across a bridge with Gavin DeGraw’s song, ‘I Don’t Want to Be,’ playing. The particulars of this bridge indicate that it is located beyond North 6th and Hanover Streets and is referred to as the 6th Street Bridge.
2. Emsley A. Laney High School, Wilmington
The school basketball scenes in the series were shot at Emsley A. Laney High School. One of the notable scenes shot here is episode 2 of season 1, where Lucas says to Peyton:
“Your art matters. It’s what got me here."
3. Graystone Inn, Wilmington
The Graystone Inn is a historic place in Wilmington; Dan Scott’s funeral scene in season 2 was filmed here. The Graystone Inn’s grand architecture contributed to the scene's eerie feeling.
4. Cape Fear Community College – Joe and Barbara Schwartz Center, Wilmington
The horrific event where Jimmy Edwards went to Tree Hill High School and opened fire was a scene shot at Cape Fear Community College’s Joe and Barbara Schwartz Center. Since the episode deals with the realistic portrayal of issues and themes like despair, hopelessness, and the tragic consequences of Jimmy’s actions, the episode is quite memorable.
5. 1901 Chestnut Street, Wilmington
In season 4, Ian Banks kidnaps Brooke Davis and Peyton Sawyer and holds them hostage at Peyton Sawyer's house. Peyton Sawyer's house is located at 1901 Chestnut Street.
6. 1829 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington
Lucas' house, where he receives the tragic news about Quentin's death, is another notable shoot location in One Tree Hill. It is situated at 1829 Wrightsville Avenue.
7. North College Road, Wilmington
The hospital scene where Peyton had an emergency cesarean in season 6 of One Tree Hill was shot at the Corning Manufacturing site on North College Road. The set has been demolished, but fans can visit the area and envision the passion that was depicted on the set.
8. Dixie Grill, Wilmington
A diner, Dixie Grill, which is located in downtown Wilmington, was featured in several episodes of One Tree Hill. Similarly, most of the conversations between the characters were filmed here.
9. The Rivercourt in the Battleship Park in Wilmington
The Rivercourt, where Lucas and Nathan used to practice basketball, is one of the most iconic spots of the show. Located at Battleship Park, this court is a dedicated basketball ground. The original Rivercourt was later demolished, although the park is one of the iconic spots for fans who wish to honor the show.
10. Tric, 1121 S Front Street, Wilmington
Tric, the nightclub many characters frequented, was filmed at 1121 S Front Street. This place was relevant in the musical context of One Tree Hill as it hosted performances and significant moments in the characters' lives.
One Tree Hill can be streamed on Hulu & Prime Video.
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