If you are looking for one-day itinerary, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some things to do in New Bern, NC.

Joe and I both love to travel. Therefore, we decided to take a day-trip to New Bern, NC. Did you know that New Bern used to be the capitol of North Carolina? It is the 2nd oldest city in North Carolina next to Bath, NC. There is a lot of history in this charming city.

It was surprising to see all that New Bern had to offer from hidden treasures, romantic walking areas, good coffee, etc. After watching the Bridgerton, I was craving a modern period experience and this was the perfect answer!

What to do in New Bern, NC?

1. Visit Tryon Palace

Address: 529 S. Front St. New Bern, NC 28562

With COVID, you currently cannot purchase advance tickets and you need to reserve a time slot for a tour of the palace. And, tickets are also discounted to $15/adult. We arrived at around 11:30 AM and were able to easily get a tour slot for 1:30 PM. Make sure to check out the various gardens of Tryon Palace, they are all stunning.

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You can purchase tickets at the North Carolina History Center or the Palace Gardens. The Palace Gardens are located right in front of Tryon Palace if you are trying to squeeze into a time slot. Get more ticket information here.

Tryon Palace was originally the Governor’s Palace and the administrative headquarters of the British governors in North Carolina from 1770 to 1775. You will have enthusiastic tour guides guiding you through each part of the reconstructed Palace and learn information that is quite fascinating!

For example, dinner was the only meal eaten at the table and breakfast and supper was usually eaten in bed. What a life!

I am a big lover of the modern period and was taking note of the beautiful architectural designs of the palace such as the molding on the walls, the pattern of marble used on the fireplace, and the fabric used for curtains.

2. Walk the Waterfront

Put this under one of the most romantic things to do in New Bern, NC.

The waterfront is beautiful and peaceful and Union Point Park (210 E. Front St. New Bern, NC 28560) in downtown New Bern is known to be a popular destination for people looking for a beautiful view. There is a spacious gazebo, boat launch, grassy picnic areas, and a line of benches that overlook the water. I would love to come back here in the spring and have a picnic!

Joe and I took our time walking along the waterfront, enjoying the peacefulness of the water. It was a great time to reflect on all of the things we are grateful for in our current season.

3. Find New Bern Bear Statues

While walking around New Bern, you will see a number of bear statues especially in the downtown area. In fact, there is a legend that a nobleman and founder of the city of Bern in Switzerland named the city for the word “bear” so the the bear is now their official symbol!

Notably, I found that Bear Town Bears, a non-profit organization, recruited local artists to create the hand-painted designs of bears for public enjoyment during the year. You can play “Where on the Bear” to find hidden features of each bear using this map.

4. Go Antiquing at Franklin’s Antique Mall

Address: 215 E. Front St. New Bern, NC 28560

When we visited, Franklin’s Antique Mall was bustling with prospective buyers. It’s always fun to have a keepsake from a trip and what better way to do that than with an antique and supporting a local business.

Where to eat in New Bern, NC?

5. Eat at MJ’S Bar & Grille

Address: 216 Middle St. New Bern, NC 28560

MJ’s is a laid-back spot with seafood and fresh oysters. COVID-wise, I was very happy with how they cleaned and disinfected and I felt safe. We stopped here for lunch and had a great time. Joe got fish & chips and I got a Po’Boy.

Some other recommendations that came highly rated..

Persimmon’s Restaurant

Address: 100 Pollock St. New Bern, NC 28560

Persimmon‘s is a bit more upscale but with a casual feel and views of the Neuse River.

Beer Army Gastropub

Address: 313 Pollock St. New Bern, NC 28560

Beer Army has great reviews for their burgers and has rotating drafts, cocktails, and other pub style food.

Where to Get Coffee in New Bern, NC?

6. Get Coffee at Folks Foundation – General Store & Apothecary

Address: 218 Middle St. New Bern, NC 28560

I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you guys about this place. Joe and I are self-proclaimed coffee snobs and dare I say — we might have had our best cup of coffee here.

Folks is a great community spot with local artists frequenting and it is a non-profit organization. Their nature is to focus on handcrafted & handmade culture, performing arts, fine arts, nature & history, small farm culture & provisions, and traditional folk arts. I can’t wait to be able to check this place out again and support them!

Conclusively, it’s safe to say, we had a pretty magical day-trip to New Bern, NC. I am feeling the pressure to take advantage of all the treasures that NC has to offer. This one is definitely a treasure!

Would you make a trip to New Bern, NC?

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