Hart of Dixie Television Show: Filming Locations of the Pilot Episode

The charming town of Bluebell, Alabama, the central setting of the beloved Hart Of Dixie Television Show, may be fictional, but the locations used to film the pilot episode are very real. While the series eventually settled into Warner Bros. Studios in California, the pilot took a detour to the picturesque towns of Southport and Wilmington, North Carolina. These locations, known for their Southern charm and frequent appearances in film and television, provided the perfect backdrop for Zoe Hart’s introduction to small-town life.

One of the earliest scenes, Zoe’s graduation speech, was filmed at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, with the iconic “Hoggard Hall” visible in the background. This establishes Zoe’s ambitious beginnings before her journey to Bluebell.

The memorable entrance to Bluebell, often featured on postcards, is actually the 6th Avenue North bridge in Wilmington, viewed from 5th Avenue North. While new construction has altered the landscape since filming, the bridge itself remains recognizable. This iconic shot sets the stage for Zoe’s arrival in the quaint Southern town.

When George Tucker drops Zoe off in Bluebell’s town square, the scene unfolds on Southport’s Main Street, in front of The State Port Pilot newspaper office. The distinct architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the law firm, remains largely unchanged, allowing fans to easily recognize the location. This scene marks Zoe’s first steps into the heart of Bluebell.

Harley Wilkes’ medical practice, where Zoe first encounters her professional challenges in Bluebell, is a Victorian home located at 308 South 2nd Street in Wilmington. The prominent tree in the front yard remains a key feature of the property. This location visually represents the traditional Southern setting of the Hart of Dixie series.

The lunch scene between Zoe and Emmeline was filmed at Southport Coffee Co. & Kitchen, a real cafe located near the previous drop-off scene. While the interior has been updated, the original architecture of the building is still discernible. This location further grounds the show in the reality of small-town Southern life.

The park where Zoe first meets Lemon Breeland, amidst a rehearsal of the Belles, is Franklin Square Park in Southport. The unique twin gazebo and surrounding benches are easily recognizable features of this location. This scene showcases the importance of community gatherings in Bluebell.

Lavon Hayes’ grand Southern mansion, located on a plantation, was filmed at 2609 Shandy Lane in Wilmington for the pilot episode. The impressive white columns and mature trees surrounding the property are key visual elements. This establishes Lavon’s prominent standing in the Bluebell community.

The oak-lined alley where Lavon leads Zoe to her new home is believed to be Pleasant Oaks Plantation, adjacent to Orton Plantation. This picturesque setting further emphasizes the Southern atmosphere of the show. The scene highlights the natural beauty surrounding Bluebell.

When Zoe seeks solace in a bottle of wine after learning of Lemon and George’s engagement, she visits The Dixie Stop, portrayed by The Village Market in Wilmington. Both exterior and interior shots were filmed at this location. This scene demonstrates Zoe’s initial struggles adapting to life in Bluebell.

The poignant scene where Emmeline reveals Harley’s paternity was filmed in front of the same Victorian home used for Harley’s medical practice on South 2nd Street in Wilmington. The distinctive red brick wall and steps are clearly visible. This location brings a sense of closure to Zoe’s initial journey in Bluebell.