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ARRIVE Wilmington
Start where all good summer stories begin: somewhere that feels familiar, even if you’ve never been. ARRIVE Wilmington is equal parts charm and calm, with courtyard string lights, coastal breezes and the Gazebo bar that makes you feel like you're a part of the family. During Season 3, Taylor's mom and members of the wedding party stayed here. Drop your bags and exhale because “this is the summer everything begins.”
Bespoke Coffee
Once you’re settled in, grab a latte from Bespoke Coffee and let the day unfold slowly. Whether you’re journaling solo or catching up with someone who feels like home, there’s something sacred about a quiet corner and a good drink. Or head to Little Loaf Bakery and Schoolhouse and One Belle Bakery, where the croissants flake just right, the chocolate hits that sweet-tart balance Jeremiah would approve of, and yes — even Isabel Conklin would be excited for a cupcake.
Papercut Books
Afterward, head to Papercut Books — a small shop that served as the stand-in for Whale of a Tale Bookshop in the show. Browse the aisles of books, and maybe you’ll find one of Jenny Han’s novels to take with you on your journey.
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria is the perfect place to grab some lunch — it's the same spot where Belly and Steven shared a heart-to-heart in Season 3. For the full TV moment, request a table near the recognizable cheese grater mural in the back. Afterward, stroll over to Kilwins for a scoop of “nature’s air conditioning.” (Taylor would approve.)
Covey ILM
End your day with something seasonal and sparkling at Covey ILM. This modern, effortlessly cool spot is filled with moody lighting, handmade dishes and conversations you'll want to remember. Not to mention it's the site of Belly and Jeremiah's rehearsal dinner. Looking for seaside views? Visit one of the most dramatic moments of Season 3 at Oceanic — the oceanfront restaurant where Belly and Jeremiah announce their engagement, and where Conrad ends up outside, alone. For the full effect, request a table upstairs for panoramic views or dine outdoors on the Crystal Pier.
Coastal Massage & Spa
Sometimes a slow morning leads to a slower afternoon. Book a treatment at Coastal Massage & Spa and let the tension melt out of your shoulders. Denise always said, “Your healing timeline is your healing timeline.” And here, you can take as much time as you’d like.
Trask Family Farms
Remember the peach scene from Season 3? Trask Family Farms serves as the backdrop. Just outside Wilmington, this real working farm is where the trees grow low and the summer air hangs thick and sweet. Come for the fruit stands, stay for the photo ops and that feeling like maybe, just maybe, something’s about to happen. On the way, stop at Russell’s Quik Stop, a gas station-slash-local treasure that feels straight out of a coming-of-age movie. Grab a snack or something cold from the cooler — just like Belly did in Season 2.
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Wander the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where arcade bells ring and the air smells like salt, sugar and sunscreen — the perfect seaside escape for the group’s summer rides and outdoor fun in Season 2. Shoot your shot at winning your own Junior Mint, just like Conrad won for Belly in the show. While exterior arcade scenes were shot at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, interior arcade and go-kart moments from Season 2 were filmed at Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Visit year-round for classic fun, or come in summer for full-on waterpark energy.
Cap’n Bill’s Backyard Grill
The volleyball tournament from Season 1 wasn’t filmed on the beach — it took place at Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill. Relax here with beach volleyball and a burger that hits the spot. This spot also hosts live music, tournaments and special events year-round.
Duck & Dive
Step into Cousins-style nightlife just like Belly, Jeremiah, and the rest of their bachelor and bachelorette crews in Season 3. Grab a laid-back drink downtown at Duck & Dive, like the guys did, or channel girls’ night energy with shots at C-Suite Lounge. Wilmington after dark hits different, especially when you're chasing a summer you'll never forget.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Remember when Belly and Conrad ran through the snow on the beach in Season 2? Most of that was filmed at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area in Kure Beach. You can park at the main entrance and use the central beach access, although bonfires aren’t allowed and snow is rare. And if you spotted Belly and Cam biking by the coast, that scene was filmed near the Fort Fisher Historic Site. It's a solid starting point for a walk with big views and wide-open sidewalks.
Southport
There’s no better way to wrap the trip than with a full-circle moment. Hop aboard the ferry crossing the Cape Fear River for a quick trip over to Southport, where the fictional “Entering Cousins Beach” sign was placed. Southport’s quiet beauty makes it easy to imagine Belly, Conrad and Jeremiah were just here a moment ago.
Need even more Belly and Conrad in your life? UNC Chapel Hill also played a pivotal role in the TV show as Finch College, where Belly and Jeremiah both attended. Fun fact: UNC Chapel Hill is Jenny Han's alma mater.
Snapshot Module
Your Trip at a Glance
Stop 1
ARRIVE Wilmington
Stop 2
Bespoke Coffee
Stop 3
Papercut Books
Stop 4
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria
Stop 5
Covey ILM
Stop 6
Coastal Massage & Spa
Stop 7
Trask Family Farms
Stop 8
Carolina Beach Boardwalk
Stop 9
Cap’n Bill’s Backyard Grill
Stop 10
Duck & Dive
Stop 11
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Stop 12