30 Must Visit Places In New Bern
New Bern, North Carolina, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located where the Neuse and Trent rivers meet, this charming town has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, New Bern won't disappoint. Historic homes, beautiful parks, and unique shops line the streets, inviting visitors to explore. Don't miss the Birthplace of Pepsi, where you can sip on a soda while learning about its origins. With so many must-visit places, New Bern promises a memorable experience for all who come. Ready to discover what makes this town special? Let's dive in!
Historic Sites
New Bern, North Carolina, is a treasure chest of history. From colonial times to the Civil War, this town has seen it all. Here are some must-visit historic sites.
Tryon Palace Step back in time at Tryon Palace, the first permanent capitol of North Carolina. Wander through the lush gardens, explore the Governor's Mansion, and learn about colonial life through interactive exhibits.
New Bern Academy Museum Originally a school, this museum now showcases New Bern's rich history. Discover artifacts from the Civil War, learn about early education, and see exhibits on local architecture.
Cedar Grove Cemetery This cemetery is more than just a resting place. It's a walk through history, with graves dating back to the 1800s. The unique architecture and poignant epitaphs tell stories of New Bern's past residents.
Natural Wonders
Nature lovers will find plenty to admire in New Bern. From scenic rivers to lush parks, the natural beauty here is breathtaking.
Croatan National Forest A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Croatan National Forest offers hiking, fishing, and camping. Explore diverse ecosystems, from saltwater estuaries to pine forests.
Union Point Park Located at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, this park is perfect for picnics, fishing, or just relaxing by the water. The scenic views are unbeatable.
Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park This park features trails, boardwalks, and observation decks. It's a great spot for birdwatching or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Cultural Attractions
New Bern's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse. From art galleries to theaters, there's something for everyone.
New Bern Civic Theatre Catch a live performance at this historic theater. From musicals to dramas, the Civic Theatre showcases local talent and brings the community together.
Bank of the Arts This gallery features rotating exhibits of local and regional artists. It's a great place to see contemporary art and maybe even purchase a piece to take home.
North Carolina History Center Located at Tryon Palace, this center offers interactive exhibits on North Carolina's history. It's educational and fun for all ages.
Family-Friendly Spots
Traveling with kids? New Bern has plenty of family-friendly attractions that will keep everyone entertained.
Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola Visit the spot where Pepsi was invented in 1898. The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola offers a small museum and a soda fountain where you can enjoy a cold Pepsi.
Bear Towne Escape Room Challenge your family to solve puzzles and escape the room. It's a fun, interactive experience that requires teamwork and creativity.
New Bern Firemen's Museum Learn about the history of firefighting in New Bern. The museum features antique fire trucks, equipment, and exhibits on famous fires in the town's history.
Outdoor Activities
For those who love the great outdoors, New Bern offers a variety of activities to get your adrenaline pumping.
Kayaking on the Neuse River Rent a kayak and paddle down the Neuse River. It's a peaceful way to see the town from a different perspective and get some exercise.
Fishing at Lawson Creek Park This park is a popular spot for fishing. With two boat ramps and plenty of shoreline, it's easy to find a good spot to cast your line.
Biking the New Bern Greenway The New Bern Greenway offers miles of trails for biking. It's a great way to explore the town and enjoy the fresh air.
Unique Experiences
Looking for something a bit different? New Bern has some unique attractions that you won't find anywhere else.
Ghosts of New Bern Tour Take a guided tour through the haunted streets of New Bern. Learn about the town's spooky history and maybe even see a ghost or two.
New Bern Trolley Tour Hop on a trolley and take a guided tour of New Bern. It's a fun and informative way to see the town's historic sites and learn about its history.
New Bern Farmers Market Visit the farmers market to buy fresh, local produce, handmade crafts, and more. It's a great way to support local vendors and get a taste of New Bern.
Shopping and Dining
New Bern offers a variety of shopping and dining options. From quaint boutiques to delicious restaurants, there's something for everyone.
Mitchell Hardware This historic hardware store has been serving New Bern since 1898. It's a great place to find unique gifts, home goods, and more.
Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant Enjoy a meal with a view at Persimmons. This waterfront restaurant offers delicious food and stunning views of the Neuse River.
Bear Plaza Located in the heart of downtown, Bear Plaza is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to spend an afternoon shopping and dining.
Festivals and Events
New Bern hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. From music festivals to holiday parades, there's always something happening.
MumFest This annual festival celebrates the town's history and culture. Enjoy live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and more.
New Bern Christmas Parade Celebrate the holiday season with the New Bern Christmas Parade. The parade features floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus.
New Bern Music Festival Enjoy live music from local and regional bands at the New Bern Music Festival. It's a great way to experience the town's vibrant music scene.
Educational Experiences
New Bern offers a variety of educational experiences for visitors of all ages. From museums to historical sites, there's always something to learn.
New Bern Historical Society Learn about the town's history through exhibits, lectures, and tours. The Historical Society offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
New Bern Public Library Visit the library to browse their collection of books, attend a lecture, or participate in a community event. The library is a great resource for visitors and residents alike.
New Bern Maritime Museum Learn about the town's maritime history through exhibits and interactive displays. The museum offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Relaxation Spots
Need to unwind? New Bern has plenty of spots where you can relax and recharge.
Carolina Colours Golf Club Play a round of golf at this beautiful course. The club offers a challenging course and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
New Bern Spa Treat yourself to a day of pampering at one of New Bern's spas. Enjoy a massage, facial, or other relaxing treatments.
Riverfront Park Relax by the water at Riverfront Park. The park offers beautiful views of the Neuse River and is a great place to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
New Bern Awaits Your Adventure
New Bern offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the Tryon Palace to strolling through Union Point Park, there's something for everyone. Don’t miss the Birthplace of Pepsi or the New Bern Firemen’s Museum. The Neuse River and Croatan National Forest provide outdoor fun, while the North Carolina History Center enriches your knowledge.
Whether you're into historic homes, local cuisine, or scenic views, New Bern has it all. The city's charm and friendly locals make it a perfect getaway. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of what this North Carolina gem has to offer.
New Bern is calling, and your adventure is just a visit away.
