Famous Movies and TV Shows Filmed in Charleston and Its Waterways

Charleston, South Carolina, is a popular destination for filmmakers. Its historic buildings, scenic waterways, and natural beauty provide an ideal backdrop for many films and TV shows. Below is a detailed look at productions that have showcased Charleston’s unique charm.

The romantic drama The Notebook used multiple locations in Charleston to capture its emotional story. Cypress Gardens, with its serene lake and graceful swans, became the iconic setting for the rowboat scene. Boone Hall Plantation, with its stately oak-lined driveway, served as Allie’s summer home. These locations added authenticity to the film’s Southern feel, making the setting as memorable as the story itself.

In Forrest Gump, Charleston’s harbor and nearby waterways brought Forrest’s shrimping adventures to life. The local marshes and creeks provided a realistic setting that captured the essence of the South. These scenes highlighted the area's natural beauty while staying true to the story’s Southern roots.

Middleton Place and Cypress Gardens were used to recreate the look of the 18th century. These historic locations added depth and credibility to the film’s depiction of the era. The plantations’ lush landscapes were a fitting backdrop for the film’s action-packed and emotional moments.

Dear John, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, featured several Charleston locations. Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms were prominently showcased, with their beaches and coastal areas creating the perfect romantic setting. These spots emphasized the emotional connections between the characters and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

This inspirational film tells the true story of Zach Bonner, a young boy who created the Little Red Wagon Foundation to help homeless children. Portions of the movie were filmed in Charleston, utilizing the city’s streets and neighborhoods to depict Zach’s journey. The production highlighted both the area’s scenic beauty and its welcoming community, bringing Zach’s story of hope and determination to life.

While primarily filmed in Beaufort, The Big Chill included key scenes shot in Charleston. The city’s waterways and marshes added to the nostalgic feel of this classic drama. The Lowcountry’s unique setting played a subtle but important role in creating the film’s atmosphere.

Charleston’s Kiawah Island and other scenic golf courses were featured in The Legend of Bagger Vance. The film’s elegant visuals relied on Charleston’s pristine landscapes to enhance its storytelling. These locations showcased the city’s ability to seamlessly blend natural beauty with cinematic appeal.

Cold Mountain, starring Jude Law and Nicole Kidman, used Charleston’s rural areas to depict the Appalachian Mountains. The untouched landscapes around Charleston provided a rugged and authentic backdrop for this Civil War-era drama.

Charleston’s military history and coastal environment made it the perfect location for G.I. Jane. The film used local naval bases and waterways to add realism to the story of a woman undergoing grueling Navy SEAL training. The city’s coastal terrain enhanced the film’s intense and action-packed scenes.

The Civil War epic Glory filmed several battle scenes in and around Charleston’s plantations and rivers. The area’s historic landmarks gave the film an authentic feel. These locations brought the struggles and triumphs of the story to life, grounding the narrative in real history.

Based on Pat Conroy’s novel, The Prince of Tides featured Charleston’s serene marshlands and waterways. The film’s emotional story relied heavily on the beauty and tranquility of the Lowcountry, which provided a striking backdrop for its key scenes.

By Richard T. Bryant, Photographer

A key scene in Die Hard with a Vengeance was filmed on Charleston’s now-replaced Cooper River Bridge. The thrilling sequence featured Bruce Willis and Samuel L. Jackson as they navigated an intense and action-packed moment on the iconic structure. The old bridge added a gritty, industrial aesthetic to the film, and its historical significance makes it a memorable location for fans of the series.

The comedy Black Knight used Charleston’s historic architecture to depict a medieval setting. The city’s preserved buildings and cobblestone streets added charm and authenticity to this quirky time-travel story.

While most of this comedy takes place in a fictional African jungle, Charleston’s Cypress Gardens served as the location for several jungle scenes. The lush greenery and swampy surroundings perfectly captured the exotic look needed for the film.

Despite being set in North Carolina, Outer Banks is filmed almost entirely in Charleston. The city’s waterways, historic homes, and vibrant coastal culture create the perfect backdrop for this treasure-hunting drama. The combination of adventure and Lowcountry charm has made the series a hit.

The reality TV show Southern Charm highlights Charleston’s stunning beauty. The series features local landmarks, including historic streets, harbors, and waterways, giving viewers an inside look at life in the Lowcountry.

Charleston stood in for a fictional Army base in this military drama. Scenes filmed along the Ashley River and in local parks brought authenticity to the show while showcasing the area’s natural charm.

This comedy series captured Charleston’s Southern character, filming scenes along rivers, rural areas, and urban landmarks. The city’s diverse landscapes added depth and variety to the show’s visuals.

Charleston doubled as the setting for this dark comedy about rival school administrators. Local schools and recognizable landmarks became key parts of the storyline, adding a distinct sense of place to the show.

Charleston offers a mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and versatile landscapes. The city’s affordability and film-friendly policies make it an attractive choice for both major studios and independent filmmakers. Its scenic waterways, historic buildings, and mild climate provide filmmakers with diverse options, whether they need a period setting or a modern coastal vibe.

From heartwarming romances to thrilling dramas, Charleston continues to shine on screens big and small. Its timeless charm and cinematic appeal ensure it remains a favorite filming location for years to come.