15 Delightful Things to Do in New Bern NC You Can’t Miss

New Bern is regarded as one of the safest and most affluent cities in North Carolina.

It’s a great travel destination for visitors of all ages, featuring plenty of recreational activities and a host of national landscapes.

Besides, New Bern is a pleasurable city to explore for nature lovers because of its awesome parks, lakes, mountains, and lots of well-maintained trails.

Located 354.82 miles away from Cherokee in the west direction, this city has a series of beautiful sites that are sure to make your vacation experience more memorable than ever before.

However, to enjoy the best of this city, you can go through the 15 compiled list of attractions to visit below.

So, shall we begin? Scroll down to have your picks from the best recommendations!

Things To Do In New Bern

1. North Carolina History Center – Tryon Palace

The best way of learning through the past is not by relying on oral narrations.

Sometimes, due to its age-long transition, there’s no chronology in oral narrations.

Meanwhile, excavated artifacts are not only accurate, but they’re also highly informative. Artifacts of such nature cover history that human memories can not ordinarily retain!

If North Carolina is your next vacation destination and you’re so desirous of learning about its history, don’t leave without having a stop at North Carolina History Center – Tryon Palace!

Essentially, this museum is a modern family-friendly attraction with hands-on displays of history exhibits, a playground for the kids, a waterfront cafe & a store.

Its rare artifacts, shopping aplenty, rotating exhibitions, and a wide range of interactive activities here add up to keeping visitors’ experience fresh and that’s why it’s one of the most visited historic sites in the United States.

Although to fully experience the real beauty of this site, you’ll need enough time considering the hundreds of artifacts available here with each reflecting a particular phase of historical development in the United States.

For instance, this spot of New Bern has various sections that display how America was in the dark age Era. The history of the Civil War, the history of the industrial revolution, and many more.

Besides, there’s an opportunity for every visitor to enjoy some relaxing moments by checking through its little garden.

You’ll also enjoy the film that’s being played in rotation, actual depictions from historians on site, and lots more!

Obviously, North Carolina History Center – Tryon Palace offers lots of interesting things that are sure to make your trip to New Bern a more pleasurable one.

Address: 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28562, United States

2. Union Point Park

Quite certainly, history is much more than lines of stories! Although, to some travelers, history is merely a combined narration of events.

Hence, to those categories of travelers, historic sites don’t fit in as interesting destinations worth exploring.

As much as individual peculiarities are taken into consideration, our list of best and most fun places in New Bern is all encapsulating!

So, if you’re a solo adventurer who doesn’t find historic landmarks enjoyable, anytime you’re in New Bern, find time to check out Union Point Park.

This is 6 acres of land attraction with great recreational activities for visitors of all interests.

Union Point Park’s acres of grassy terrain are beautifully dotted with picnic tables, wooden benches, and grills. So visitors can take a comfortable and quick break, enjoying the scenic waterfront and overlooking the rivers.

There’s also a playground for younger visitors with a well-functioning goodies store.

Even at that, water lovers will surely feel at home being here as this site features a notorious fishing Pier as well as dual public boats. This Pier is ideal for canoes, kayaks, or any boating cursing.

But is that all you could enjoy on this fantastic site?

Absolutely not! Its new gazebo gains notoriety for being an all-time venue of choice for so many popular events and musical performances.

That suggests that, while you’ll have quite a lot of time enjoying yourself, your relaxing moment is sure with loads of seasonal performances by local musicians and bands.

Note, this perfectly picturesque site opens all year round between 6 am to 11 pm.

Address: 210 E Front St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

3. Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery

Providing the utmost curatorial and artistical displays, Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery is a dream come through for every lover of art coming to New Bern.

Whether you’re on holiday vacation or traveling by this city, it will not be too good of you to leave without checking out this award-winning fun place.

Aside from its various artworks ranging from pottery to paintings and jewelry, this site is also remarkable for its series of cultural activities.

For the past 24 years of its existence, it has been the key factor why travelers couldn’t resist coming for summer vacation to this downtown.

A unique attribute that still preserves the relevance of this art gallery despite being one of the oldest amongst its contemporary in North Carolina is how visitors pay less yet go home with quality items.

Whimsical sculptures, wood ducks, and a host of other sculptures don’t cost up to $10, which is considerably low, unlike what’s obtainable elsewhere.

Similar to that, the recycling sofa, loads of snacks in its gift store, and the friendliness of the staff are enough to make you stay longer than your schedule.

No debating, those who regret their lives at an older age are people who take time living without creating memories.

If you want some beautiful memories to flash back in your old age, Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery will create one for you!

After all, lots of money in your bank account may make you rich, but it can never create memorable moments for you other than the interest you’re sure of getting.

Address: 317 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

4. New Bern Firemen’s Museum

No one should be forced to learn history because history has a way of forcing people to learn!

Definitely, living without the knowledge of history is waking up with totally a blank memory.

Aside from helping people to gain adequate knowledge that will help in avoiding the shortfalls of earlier inhabitants, history is an amazing thing that teaches mankind to be wiser than the forefathers!

Lovers of history, your visit to New Bern in North Carolina wouldn’t be a wrong decision!

Established in 1955, New Bern Firemen’s Museum presents the history of firefighting in the United States in a more interesting and insightful way.

Honoring and preserving pivotal times in history, New Bern Firemen’s Museum has amazing collections of artifacts and monuments.

In fact, on this site, you’ll learn so much not only about fire trucks history, but equally about the history of New Bern generally.

If perhaps you’re on vacation to this city with your kids, that’s so great!

New Bern Firemen’s Museum equally has a dedicated kids’ space and a scavenger hunt for them.

Evidently, this museum isn’t just fire memorabilia. There’s something engaging, fun, and entertaining for visitors of all ages!

While on a trip to this site, if you have some cash in your wallet, be sure to check the first floor for some wonderful antique fire trucks and apparatus.

Bear in mind that this museum is open Monday through Saturday between 10:00 am and 4:00 p.m. and the admission fee is $5.00 for adults and $2.50 for little ones.

We, however, suggest you come early so as to beat up the crowd.

Also, endeavor to bring some snacks because there is no food truck on site.

Address: 420 Broad St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

5. Kidsville Playground

Kids expect every parent to go the extra mile so they’ll feel loved, noticed, special and cared for.

When you do the extraordinary for the kids, like getting them gifts or taking them to fun places, kids will certainly enjoy it! – it’s just an extra confirmation of them being cherished by you!

Although every kid is aware that a parent cares for them. In all cases, actions like these are better proof that they are beloved and so important.

Since New Bern is your next vacation destination, then they are many things for kids to engage in.

Kidsville Playground is strictly dedicated to kids with every amenity that’s sure to make every little one feel special, like never before.

Situated along West Parrot Park, Kidsville Playground is an interactive and active environment that allows kids to explore their imagination.

This attraction in a fort-like setting allows them to swing, run, slide, and climb through climbing frames, turns, twists, and lots more.

Besides, Kidsville Playground is the home to the West New Bern Recreation Center which proudly features two lighted baseball fields, four tennis courts, three field houses, two lighted little league fields, a lighted basketball court, and a picnic spot.

So, while the little ones enjoy themselves to the fullest, the adults aren’t left out amidst the fun things available at Kidsville Playground!

Agreeably, there’s no exercise better for the heart than going on vacation, enjoying the moment, and having a blast.

Do ensure to bring your kids here for a couple of minutes anytime you’re in New Bern.

Address: 210 E Front St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

6. Brewery 99

Do you want to have some nice beer for yourself during your subsequent travels to New Bern?

If you would, that will be pretty good! Although, it’s quite evident that this city of North Carolina is riffed with lots of breweries.

Meanwhile, with much certainty, Brewery 99 will surpass your expectations!

Brewery99 offers tasty beers, great wines, and cigars at inexpensive prices.

Do note that, as for its opening hours, this taproom opens mostly from 4:00 pm until sunset.

Different from being a renowned bear house in New Bern, the presence of an outdoor area with cornhole and a miniature golf zone here makes Brewery 99 exceptionally unique.

Little wonder this site has been a favorite point of interest to several travelers since 2015 that it was established.

Incorporating quality ingredients and providing a diverse range of beers with amazing and appealing tastes and flavors, Brewery 99 is just too good to be avoided!

Although payment is required for other adventurous activities here. However, if you’re visiting for beer alone, it’s a win-win for you. No additional payment would be payable except for the beer you’re being offered.

If you’re among the luckiest one percent of humanity that has the ability to think right, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think differently and enjoy life differently!

No doubt, it’s sure you’ll come back with positive reviews after your subsequent trip here.

So, ensure you update your itinerary to include this fantastic place!

Address: 1014 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

7. Farmer’s Market

Ordinarily, there’s nothing fun about a farmer’s market as it’s not more than a place where goods and services are being rendered.

Meanwhile, a visit to New Bern Farmer’s Market will dispel that assumption!

At New Bern Farmer’s Market, you’ll have access to a series of cultural activities, games, various concerts, and lots more.

In fact, if you’re a history enthusiast, you can never check out this site without seeing a lot to appreciate about the historical antecedents of this city.

New Bern Farmer’s Market is a region that’s far beyond where you can buy things.

So, while coming for the freshest local veggies, cakes, bread, purveyors, and homemade good, you’re also sure of getting something more!

The only drawback of this spot is that it’s not in operation on all days of the week.

It is only open to travelers on Saturdays between the hours of 8 AM to 2 PM all year round.

If your visitation period might fall on a Saturday, coming here is a great way to spend some hours.

Note, there are few parking lots, so parking might be so tricky. Nevertheless, if you can find alternative means of coming, that’s not a good reason to avoid a visit here.

Address:421 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

Planning a road trip to other cities in North Carolina? Then try checking out our list of fun things to do in Cherokee and Corolla!

8. The New Bern Civic Theatre

New Bern Civic Theatre is a performing arts studio in North Carolina that presents national concerts, local concerts, and periodic musical performances and plays.

Opened in the year 1981, this entertaining place educates, entertains, and informs the public and tourists alike through its series of performances.

An outstanding feature of this fun house is that it’s a non-profit community theater which makes the ticketing fee considerably low in comparison to the fun moments everyone enjoys here.

Similar to that, the seating is comfortable, the sound system is functioning well and the waitress are so courteous!

So, how fun do you wish your next summer vacation to be?

How well you’ll want it to be merry and fun. The decision is all yours.

Regardless of your interests, this theatre is just one of the local centers that’ll spice up your stay in this city.

Of note, this spot doesn’t open to the public on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. However, on other days of the week, its opening hours are between 10 am to 4 pm.

Address: 414 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

9. New Bern Academy Museum

Rich with American history, the New Bern Academy Museum is another great attraction for lovers of history coming to North Carolina.

Much certainly, when it comes to learning about the history of earlier inhabitants, there are many things to be learned.

These incidences and happenings occurred years ago. So, it might require moving from one historic site to another in order to have a full grasp.

Some of the knowledge would be more practically useful, by contributing to the decent and normal functioning of well-meaning societies, while others help in the preparation of what the future holds.

For lovers of history, the New Bern Academy Museum is a treasure trove!

It has a beautiful array of exhibits, artifacts, photographs, monographs, and several other books of history.

Situated just about four blocks away from the Tryon Palace, this museum is undoubtedly one of the few areas that you’ll find so insightful when it comes to learning about the history of the United States.

Little wonder this historical landmark that has been established as far back as 1764 still maintains its relevance today.

As for the kids, this museum isn’t without something entertaining for them!

Kids will enjoy playing at its playground without payment of any admission fee.

If not for anything else, this attraction is enough to make your stay in New Bern worth it!

Address: 508 New St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

10. New Bern Farm, Garden, and Landscaping

A visit to a garden creates a better perspective to appreciate nature.

Woods and fields, earth and sky, mountain and sea, lakes and rivers, are excellent schoolmasters!

These natural endowments teach a human being a lot more than what is available from the pages of books.

Once you’re in New Bern and you’ll love to check out a place with so many things to remind you about the beauty of nature, don’t hesitate to extend your voyage to New Bern Farm, Garden, and Landscaping!

From local inhabitants who want to enjoy some quiet moments to travelers who wish to find a unique sight to brighten up their experiences, there’s a lot to explore and discover in this little place.

Impressively, this lovely site is along Old Cherry Point Road, which makes it so nice to reach visitors irrespective of their location.

Note, this landscape isn’t a kid-friendly attraction and except on Sundays, it’s always open on all days until 5:15 pm.

Address: 1309 Old Cherry Point Rd, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

11. Latham Whitehurst Nature Park

On a daily basis, stopping to take a few minutes for yourself is most probably at the tippy end of what you’ll love to do.

You’ll see yourself setting aside some moments to enjoy yourself later in the week, later in the year, and then finally discovering you’ve yet to go on that vacation or buy that special gift.

That’s a bad lifestyle, if you’ll postpone any activity, it shouldn’t be your moment of vacation!

Get up, and plan your trip well, with Latham Whitehurst Nature Park, you wouldn’t wish to explore any other city other than New Bern!

Latham Whitehurst Nature Park is an attraction that was established in 2011.

Precisely, this recreational center features a boardwalk, a shelter, kayaking, hiking, fishing & more.

The trails have a beautiful layout; the boardwalk is so scenic and the fact that the staff acts like old friends makes it an addictive place you’ll love to stay.

Even at that, there are lots of plants, bird activity, and delightful ecosystems to learn about here.

There are also park benches and shades along the way which make resting quite comfortable if you’re feeling tired along the way.

Despite all these awesome things, you’ll not pay any admission fee in order to enjoy yourself here.

If you’ll be in New Bern, you need to come here to enjoy some moments.

Address: 1095 Broad Creek Rd, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

12. Cruise The Neuse Boat Tours

Still yet to decide on where to visit despite over ten lovely sites recommended above?

That’s possible, and it’s never anything to worry about! Bearing in mind the peculiarities and diverse interests of visitors, the list will surely cover all visitors irrespective of their diverse interests.

So, relax and keep checking the list.

For all lovers of boat cruising, kayaking, and canoeing, Cruise The Neuse Boat Tours is a must-visit if you’re in New Bern

Cruise the Neuse Boat Tours offer daytime and a sunset water adventure.

The tradition of this attraction is that every traveler is required to have a reserved seat before the adventure period.

Doing this is quite easier, just endeavor to come early enough and make some reservations at least about 30 minutes before the take period.

To make the record straight, this fun place offers 3 daily cruises, that is, at 10 am, 12 pm & 2 pm.

More than a mere cruising agency, the energetic captain also tells the history of this city to every visitor.

How about the cost? That’s pretty low. A trip here costs just $45, which is so low.

Address: 101 Craven St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

13. Bear Towne Escape Room

Located on one of the beautiful streets in New Bern, Bear Towne Escape Room offers high-end escape experiences to visitors.

If you love to be challenged and also have some enjoyable moments alongside, don’t miss out on Bear Towne Escape Room on your bucket list.

This escape room provides a real-life interactive gaming atmosphere where you’ll have about 60 minutes to solve several riddles and puzzles and find clues to some mystery.

If you’re smart enough while being locked in a themed room, you’ll escape the challenge and become a champion.

Even if you’re not too timely, the memory and experience will still be worthwhile.

Although, the admission fee here is a bit high. Nevertheless, that shouldn’t constitute any stumbling block.

After all, anything that’s so sure to give you great delight and happiness can never be too expensive!

Other than that, there are parking lots & the staff appears so courteous. In fact, the entire layout is impressive and quite lots of restaurants are in sight.

Do you have what it takes to escape in this themed room?

Don’t be too sure, come and test your skills when next you’re in New Bern!

Address: 233 Middle St #107b, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

14. Birthplace Of Pepsi-Cola

Far beyond the United States, ‘Pepsi’ isn’t a brand that needs any lengthy description. It’s wildly popular!

Since you’ll be in New Bern, the major benefit you may enjoy aside from those who merely know of its existence is that you’ll have access to see where Pepsi-Cola was actually invented by Caleb Bradham.

Herein, you’ll be able to learn more about the history of its inventory through a series of exhibits available on-site.

Of a truth, if you are near North Carolina, this is a great stop!

Kindly note that Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is open Monday through Saturday between 10 am and 6 pm and its opening period on Sundays is between 12 noon and 4 pm.

Address: 256 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

15. New Bern Tours & Convention Services

Experience outdoor fun, history, family activities, and dining centers through the ever-engaging tour with New Bern Tours & Convention Services.

New Bern Tours & Convention Services is an initiative that began in 1997.

Its establishment was targeted at providing tourists the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of historic New Bern.

If you want to discover what makes this city of North Carolina so special, have a stop here.

The tour is for an hour and 30 minutes. Meanwhile, within these 90 minutes, you’ll discover the three centuries of architectural beauty and history of this city comprehensively.

The tour will specifically be in a way that it’ll meet your expectations and it’ll be well worth the fees.

Address: 610 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

Final Remarks

With lots of historic sites and a series of recreational activities, New Bern should be your next travel destination.

Whether you’ll be here for a short time visit or a longer period, this city has a lot to offer.

Meanwhile, to avoid having a sham experience, endeavor to check through our recommendations herein to narrow down your itinerary.

Safe Travels!