Movie & TV Filming Locations in Durham, North Carolina, United States
1. Duke University Campus
Iconic academic institution featured in films like 'The Fault in Our Stars' and TV shows such as 'Dawson's Creek'. Explore the stunning architecture and beautiful campus.
- Historical Significance: Founded in 1838, Duke University is rich in history and academic tradition.
- Architectural Variety: The campus showcases a mix of Gothic, modernist, and contemporary architectural styles.
- Academic Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Duke's academic programs and research initiatives.
2. American Tobacco Campus
Former tobacco factory turned entertainment complex used as a filming location for 'The Help' and 'One Tree Hill'. Enjoy dining, shopping, and events in this historic setting.
- Historic Preservation: The American Tobacco Campus is a prime example of Durham's industrial past being repurposed for modern use.
- Unique Venues: The complex houses numerous event spaces, museums, and restaurants, making it a vibrant cultural hub.
- Outdoor Events: During the summer, the campus hosts free outdoor movies and concerts for visitors to enjoy.
3. Durham Bulls Athletic Park
Baseball stadium featured in 'Bull Durham' where you can watch a game and experience the charm of small-town America.
- Movie History: The park gained popularity through its appearance in the classic baseball film 'Bull Durham'.
- Minor League Baseball: Catch a game featuring the Durham Bulls, the Triple-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.
- Tours and Events: Visitors can take tours, attend games, or rent the park for private events.
4. North Carolina Museum of Art Park
Spacious outdoor park used as a filming location in 'The Hunger Games' where you can explore art and nature.
- Outdoor Sculptures: The park features over 160 sculptures from artists around the world.
- Art Exhibitions: Indoor galleries showcase a diverse collection of art, including ancient to contemporary pieces.
- Picnics and Events: Visitors can enjoy picnics, concerts, and other events in the park throughout the year.
5. Durham Central Park
Urban park used as a filming location for 'American Underdog' where you can relax, play sports, and enjoy live music.
- Live Music Venue: The park hosts free concerts and events throughout the year.
- Sports Facilities: Visitors can play soccer, basketball, or disc golf on the park's sports fields.
- Community Gatherings: The park serves as a hub for community events and gatherings in Durham.
6. Durham County Courthouse
Courthouse featured in 'The Karate Kid' where you can appreciate its Neoclassical architecture.
- Historical Architecture: Built in 1928, the courthouse is a striking example of Neoclassical design.
- Tours and Events: Visitors can take guided tours or attend court proceedings (subject to schedule).
- Court Museum: The courthouse houses a museum showcasing the history of Durham's judicial system.
7. North Carolina Central University
University featured in 'The Best Man Holiday' where you can explore historic buildings and vibrant student life.
- Historical Significance: NCCU is the oldest historically black university in North Carolina.
- Cultural Events: Visitors can attend concerts, lectures, and other cultural events hosted by the university.
- Campus Tours: Tour the beautiful campus, learn about its rich history, and observe student life.
8. West Point on the Eno
Nature preserve used as a filming location for 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire' where you can hike, birdwatch, and enjoy picnics.
- Hiking Trails: The preserve offers numerous trails suitable for all skill levels.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: Over 150 species of birds have been spotted at West Point on the Eno.
- Picnic Areas: Visitors can enjoy picnics in scenic areas along the preserve's trails.
9. St. Joseph's Historic Church
Church used as a filming location for 'The Help' where you can appreciate its historic beauty and stained glass windows.
- Historical Architecture: St. Joseph's is a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture.
- Religious Services: Visitors can attend Sunday mass or other religious services (subject to schedule).
- Historic Tours: Guided tours of the church and its cemetery are available.
10. Dumas Farmhouse
Historic farmhouse used as a filming location for 'The Secret Life of Bees' where you can explore Durham's agricultural past.
- Historical Significance: Dumas Farmhouse is one of the oldest remaining structures in Durham.
- Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the farm's history and daily life during that time period.
- Seasonal Events: The farm hosts seasonal events, such as pumpkin patches in the fall.
11. Hope Valley Station
Train station featured in 'Dumbo' where you can take scenic train rides and explore railroad history.
- Scenic Train Rides: Visitors can take a scenic train ride through the countryside.
- Museum of American Railroad History: The station houses a museum showcasing the history of railroads in America.
- Special Events: The station hosts special events throughout the year, such as holiday-themed trains.
12. North Carolina Botanical Garden
Botanical garden used as a filming location for 'The Best of Me' where you can explore diverse plant life and take peaceful walks.
- Diverse Plant Life: The garden showcases plants from around the world, including rare and endangered species.
- Research Facilities: The garden is a research facility for the study of botany and conservation efforts.
- Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the plants, their uses, and their significance.
13. Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Beautiful garden used as a filming location for 'One Tree Hill' where you can appreciate its serene beauty and diverse plant life.
- Diverse Plant Life: The gardens showcase plants from around the world, including rare and endangered species.
- Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the gardens, their history, and their conservation efforts.
- Seasonal Events: The gardens host seasonal events, such as concerts, festivals, and workshops.
14. American Tobacco Trail
Bike trail used as a filming location for 'Iron Man 3' where you can enjoy scenic rides and explore Durham's outdoors.
- Scenic Rides: The trail offers beautiful views of forests, farmland, and historic buildings.
- Bike Rentals: Visitors can rent bikes at various locations along the trail.
- Dog-Friendly Trail: The trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for pet owners.
15. Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts
Performing arts center used as a filming location for 'The Karate Kid' where you can enjoy live theater and concerts.
- Live Theater: Visitors can watch Broadway shows, ballets, and other live performances.
- Concerts: The center hosts concerts featuring popular musicians from various genres.
- Tours and Events: Visitors can take guided tours of the center or attend special events, such as galas and fundraisers.