Things To Do
in New Bern
New Bern, North Carolina sits at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, offering a scenic blend of colonial-era architecture and riverfront charm. As one of the state’s oldest towns, it preserves history at Tryon Palace, the Bellamy Mansion, and a walkable Historic District. Its waterfront parks, bakeries, and cozy eateries make it easy to linger along the water.
The coordinates 35.0955, -77.0723 place you in a town known for hospitality, Pepsi Cola’s birthplace lore, and a relaxed southern vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of New Bern, where you'll find charming colonial architecture and quaint shops. Visit Tryon Palace, the first official residence of the Royal Governor of North Carolina, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. Don’t forget to snap photos of the beautiful gardens that surround the palace.
After lunch at a local café, head over to the New Bern Academy Museum, where you can learn about the city's educational history and view interesting exhibits. Spend some time wandering along the Neuse River waterfront, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps spotting some local wildlife. As the afternoon winds down, visit the nearby Cedar Grove Cemetery, known for its historic significance and beautiful landscapes.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant downtown for dinner, sampling some southern cuisine or fresh seafood. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverfront, enjoying the tranquil ambiance and the twinkling lights reflecting off the water. Consider catching a live music performance or a local theater show to wrap up your evening.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a waterfront café, overlooking the Neuse River. Afterward, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the river, taking in the natural beauty and spotting local wildlife. This early morning paddling will give you a refreshing start to the day as you explore the waterways of New Bern.
Return to shore for a picnic lunch in one of New Bern’s lovely parks, such as Union Point Park, where you can relax under the shade of trees. After lunch, embark on a riverboat cruise to gain a unique perspective of the city from the water, learning about its history and significance along the way. The cruise offers a perfect opportunity to unwind while soaking in the views of waterfront homes and lush landscapes.
As evening approaches, head back to the downtown area and enjoy dinner at a local bistro with outdoor seating. After your meal, take a ghost tour through the historic district to learn about the haunted history of New Bern and hear spooky tales from knowledgeable guides. This thrilling experience will leave you with a memorable twist to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1,200-1,600 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🧾Utilities (monthly for 85 m² apartment) | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich colonial history and riverfront charm
- Compact, walkable downtown with easy access to nature
- Smaller city feel with fewer large-scale nightlife options
- Summer humidity and storm risk
Places to Visit in New Bern
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic boardwalk along the river with docks, boats, and sunset views ideal for wide-angle river shots.
Historic gardens and stately architecture provide formal composition opportunities and light at different times of day.
Gothic Revival architecture with elegant facades—great for exterior details and moody interior shots.
Cobblestone streets and preserved storefronts offer charming, character-filled street photography.
Waterfront greens with river views and play of light on the water—excellent for golden-hour photography.
Food in New Bern
New Bern Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy grits topped with tender local shrimp, often finished with andouille or a light seafood ragout; best found at seafood-focused restaurants along the river.
Must-Try!
Pork with a tangy vinegar-based sauce, a regional staple you’ll encounter at casual eaties and barbecues around town.
A communal boil of corn, sausage, potatoes, and shellfish seasoned with Old Bay and herbs; a popular option at waterfront markets and casual eateries.
Fresh catch of the day prepared fried or grilled, often with local vegetables and regional sides.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal local produce, pastries, seafood, and crafts; great for tasting fresh regional ingredients and picking up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
friendly, polite, and patient—small-town courtesy goes a long way. A simple hello and thank you are appreciated.
Respect quiet residential areas and local shop hours; ask before taking photos of people or homes.
Safety
Tipping in New Bern
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., a 15-20% tip at sit-down restaurants is standard; round up for small cash purchases or small orders, and tip service staff in cash if possible.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments; carry a little cash for markets, cafes, or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with blooming gardens; perfect for outdoor walking tours and riverfront photography.
Warm and humid; afternoon storms possible. Plan indoor museum visits or early morning outdoor activities.
Comfortable weather and fall colors along the river; ideal for scenic strolls and outdoor markets.
Cool to mild with occasional frost; fewer crowds but great for city strolls and cozy dining.
New Bern at Night
Hiking in New Bern
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A longer multi-use trail through coastal forests and marshes offering scenic river crossings and wildlife viewing.
Coastal trails and boardwalks near Swansboro for short hikes with beach access and wildlife viewing.
Gentle loops and day hikes showcasing coastal habitats and diverse ecosystems within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach New Bern by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial flights; convenient for quick trips in and out of New Bern.
Larger regional airport about an hour away; offers a broader set of domestic flights and more frequent schedules.
Major international hub about 2 hours away by car; broadest flight options and connections for international travel.
Coastal airport with convenient departures to the region and some direct national routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with good schools, parks, and historical attractions appealing to children and adults alike.
Quieter winter months attract retirees and spring/summer visitors looking for riverfront relaxation.
A growing scene around dining, small businesses, and cultural events; many commute to nearby cities for work.
Diverse communities contribute to the town’s cultural events, dining options, and local heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Neuse and Trent Rivers foster a strong culture of boating, fishing, and waterfront recreation.
Local recreational leagues and school teams contribute to a community-centered sports scene.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Bern.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-focused mains, salads, vegetarian soups, and tofu or legumes; many menus offer meat-free options. Ask for vegetable sides as a main, or request substitutions when possible.
Choose seafood, salads, and naturally gluten-free dishes; alert staff of gluten sensitivities and verify sauces and bread options are GF.
Request dairy-free preparations (no butter, cream, or cheese) and substitutions such as olive oil or dairy-free sauces where available.