35 College Campuses Where Hollywood Movies Were Secretly Filmed

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: The Choice (2016)

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), one of the oldest public universities in the U.S., has long been admired for its picturesque campus, classic Southern charm, and stately colonial architecture. Its mix of historic brick buildings, tree-lined walkways, and iconic Old Well fountain makes it a visually striking yet relatable setting for coming-of-age films, romances, and dramas. UNC made a notable Hollywood appearance in "The Choice" (2016), based on the Nicholas Sparks novel. The film used UNC's quintessential college-town atmosphere to enhance its romantic narrative, capturing both the university’s timeless beauty and the laid-back, intellectual spirit of Chapel Hill. The film’s blend of romance and drama, set against the backdrop of this charming Southern campus, showcases UNC’s ability to evoke warmth, nostalgia, and youthful ambition.