“The Peanut Butter Falcon” was not just a heartwarming tale; it was a journey of friendship and resilience that captured audiences worldwide. The film follows Zak, a young man with Down syndrome, who escapes from a nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a wrestler. Along the way, he befriends a small-time outlaw named Tyler, and the two embark on a life-changing adventure through the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
The locations used in “The Peanut Butter Falcon” were integral to the film’s authenticity, showcasing the beauty of the Outer Banks and adding depth to the character’s journey. Let’s journey through the main filming destinations of “The Peanut Butter Falcon,” what fans can see and do there, and tips for visiting.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Key Scenes: The stunning coastline and small towns of the Outer Banks served as the backdrop for many pivotal moments in the film, including Zak and Tyler’s encounters with various characters along their journey.
Best Time to Visit: The spring and fall months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the Outer Banks.
Transportation Options: Visitors can drive to the Outer Banks via bridges or ferries, and once there, renting a car is the best way to navigate the area.
The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, provided the perfect setting for the Peanut Butter Falcon’s adventure. Remember the scene where Zak escapes the nursing home and stumbles upon the vast, seemingly endless coastline? The camera lingers on the endless stretch of sand, mirroring the boundless spirit of a young man yearning for independence. It’s a powerful visual metaphor, emphasizing Zak’s longing for a life beyond the confines of the institution.
One of the most memorable scenes filmed in the Outer Banks is when Zak and Tyler navigate through the marshes and encounter Eleanor, played by Dakota Johnson. The picturesque landscapes and charming coastal towns also feature prominently throughout the film.
The Outer Banks offer a unique blend of natural beauty and Southern charm, with pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and delicious seafood cuisine. Tours highlighting filming locations and local attractions are available for fans looking to delve deeper into the movie’s world. During filming, the cast and crew immersed themselves in the local culture, with Shia LaBeouf and Zack Gottsagen, who plays Zak, even participating in a wrestling match at a local event.
Plan your vacation during the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather. Renting a beach house or staying in a cozy bed and breakfast allows you to experience the laid-back atmosphere of the Outer Banks.
Things to Do in Outer Banks: Explore historic sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial or take a boat tour to spot wild horses on Shackleford Banks.
Where to Eat in Outer Banks: Sample fresh seafood at local favorites like Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar or indulge in Southern comfort food at Sam & Omie’s.
Where to Stay: Lodge at the John Yancey Oceanfront Inn or Surf Side Hotel.
Brunswick County, North Carolina
Key Scenes: Interior scenes of the wrestling school, including the climactic wrestling match, were filmed here.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, while summer is peak season with vibrant festivals and events.
Transportation Options: Brunswick County is easily accessible by car. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is recommended for exploring the area.
While the Outer Banks provided the film’s breathtaking coastal backdrop, Brunswick County, located on the mainland of North Carolina, housed the interiors of the fictional wrestling school, The Saltwater Redneck. This is where fans can relive the energy and excitement of the wrestling scenes, particularly the final showdown between Zak and Tyler.
This location might be of particular interest to die-hard fans wanting to visit every filming spot. Brunswick County itself offers a wealth of Southern charm and historical landmarks.
Things to Do in Brunswick County: Take a step back in time at the Brunswick Town/Fort Frederica National Historic Site. For a unique experience, visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and discover the fascinating marine life of the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to Eat in Brunswick County: Enjoy classic Southern comfort food at Leland’s Restaurant, a local favorite known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Where to Stay in Brunswick County: The Holiday Inn Express Leland Wilmington Area offers comfortable accommodations in a convenient location for exploring Brunswick County.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Key Scenes: A few exterior scenes, including the gas station and diner where Tyler encounters Eleanor, were filmed here.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city, while summer brings vibrant festivals and events.
Transportation Options: Wilmington is a mid-sized city easily accessible by car. Public transportation options include buses and a limited light rail system. For exploring the historic district, walking and biking are popular choices.
Wilmington, a charming port city on the Cape Fear River, served as a backdrop for some of the film’s exterior scenes. Eagle-eyed fans might recognize the gas station and diner where Tyler has a chance encounter with Eleanor. Wilmington’s historic downtown district and scenic riverfront offer a glimpse into North Carolina’s rich history and coastal beauty.
This location is easily accessible and offers a vibrant cultural scene to complement your film-inspired adventure. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Battleship North Carolina, a World War II battleship turned museum. For a touch of Hollywood glamor, take a self-guided movie location tour and see where other films were shot in Wilmington.
Things to Do: Catch a performance at the historic Thalian Hall, the oldest operating theater in North Carolina, or explore the Cape Fear River on a kayaking or boat tour. For a unique perspective, take a sunset cruise and enjoy the city skyline from the water.
Where to Eat: The Cape Fear Brewing Company offers delicious pub fare and craft beers in a lively atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Front Street Inn, Arrive Wilmington or Hotel Ballast is located in the heart of the downtown district, putting you close to filming locations and other attractions.
Savannah, Georgia
Key Scenes: The iconic river scenes where Zak and Tyler’s journey begins, showcasing the serene beauty of Savannah’s waterfront.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the city’s charming streets.
Transportation Options: Getting around Savannah is easy with its walkable downtown area, but for longer distances, consider renting a bike or using public transportation.
Savannah, Georgia, known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture, served as the backdrop for several key scenes in “Peanut Butter Falcon.” The picturesque riverfront scenes capture Zak and Tyler’s initial meeting and set the stage for their transformative journey together.
Explore Savannah’s charming streets, historic squares, and scenic riverfront, immersing yourself in the same locations that brought “Peanut Butter Falcon” to life. The production team faced challenges filming on the Savannah River due to unpredictable weather conditions, adding an element of authenticity to the movie’s adventurous spirit.
Things to Do in Savannah: Explore Forsyth Park, take a historic walking tour, or indulge in a riverboat cruise to experience the best of Savannah’s charm.
Where to Eat in Savannah: Dine at The Grey, a restaurant housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, or enjoy Southern comfort food at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room.
Where to Stay in Savannah: Experience Southern hospitality at The Gastonian, a historic bed and breakfast, or enjoy waterfront views at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa.
Beyond Scenery
The movie is beyong just a scenery, the historical sites scattered throughout the Outer Banks, which portrays the remnants of a rich past that has continued to live on matches Zak’s story of defying limitations.
Savannah, on the other hand, with its vibrant architecture and Southern charm, is a place where strangers can become allies, a quality Eleanor desperately needs as she searches for Zak. Remember the scene where she encounters Leah, the kind dock worker, in the bustling Savannah port? This moment offers a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos of Zak’s escape. The warmth of the community, embodied by Savannah itself, becomes a potential source of support for both Zak and Eleanor. As you visit the locations where this beautiful heart-warming story was captured, bear in mind the unique features that bond the characters together.
