Filming Locations for The Notebook Around South Carolina: A Journey Through Romantic Charleston

Photo byNick Jhon

When The Notebook was released in 2004, it quickly became a cinematic love story that captured the hearts of audiences. Adapted from Nicholas Sparks' novel, the film's setting in a fictional Southern town was brought to life through various locations in South Carolina, particularly around Charleston. These picturesque sites still attract fans eager to experience the magic of Noah and Allie's romance. Here’s a closer look at some of the key filming locations you can visit.

1. The American Theater, Charleston

One of the most memorable scenes of The Notebook is when Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams) go on their first date to a movie, followed by a sweet moment lying down in the middle of a quiet street. This scene was filmed outside the American Theater, a vintage 1940s movie house located on King Street in downtown Charleston. While the theater now serves as an event venue, its charming facade remains, offering fans a nostalgic spot for photos​ This Is My South​Wide Open Country.

2. Boone Hall Plantation, Mount Pleasant

Boone Hall Plantation, just outside of Charleston in Mount Pleasant, served as the exterior for Allie’s family’s grand summer home. Known for its stunning Avenue of Oaks, Boone Hall is one of the oldest working plantations in America. Visitors can explore the grounds, tour the mansion, and learn about the plantation’s history, including its ties to the film​ Southern Living​Wide Open Country. The property has a rich past, making it a place of reflection as well as a picturesque filming site.

3. Cypress Gardens, Moncks Corner

The serene scene where Noah and Allie paddle through a swan-filled lake was filmed at Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner, about 30 minutes from Charleston. In the movie, this location creates a magical backdrop with tall cypress trees and a reflective swamp. Visitors today can take their own boat rides through the gardens, though the swans from the film were brought in specifically for the scene​ This Is My South​The Keys to Travel. After sustaining damage from flooding, Cypress Gardens has reopened, allowing visitors to relive this iconic moment.

4. Martins Point Plantation, Wadmalaw Island

Martins Point Plantation on Wadmalaw Island, near Charleston, was used for one of the most central locations in The Notebook: the house that Noah renovates for Allie. This private property served as the exterior for the home, which becomes a symbol of Noah's enduring love. While the plantation itself is not open to the public, it remains a key site for fans of the film​ Southern Living​Wide Open Country.

5. Calhoun Mansion, Charleston

The lavish interior scenes of Allie’s summer home were filmed at the historic Calhoun Mansion, now known as the Williams Mansion, located at 16 Meeting Street in Charleston. This stunning home, built in 1876, features 35 rooms, intricate chandeliers, and lush gardens. Though it remains a private residence, guided tours are available, allowing fans to get a glimpse of the elegance portrayed in the film​ Film Locations Guide.

6. College of Charleston

In the film, Allie attends Sarah Lawrence College in New York, but these scenes were actually shot at the College of Charleston. The campus's classic Southern architecture and charming courtyards provided the perfect stand-in for a prestigious northeastern college. This location is just a short walk from other filming sites like the American Theater​ This Is My South​The Keys to Travel.

Explore Charleston Through The Notebook

The city of Charleston, with its well-preserved history and Southern charm, plays a starring role in The Notebook. From intimate moments captured along cobblestone streets to grand plantation homes, these locations help tell the story of Noah and Allie’s enduring love. Visiting these sites offers fans a chance to immerse themselves in the romance and beauty of the Lowcountry.

Sources:

• This Is My South
• Southern Living
• Wide Open Country
• The Movie Locations
• The Keys to Travel