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New Bern was founded in 1710 by Swiss and German Palatine settlers led by Christoph von Graffenried, who named it after Bern in Switzerland. Set where the Neuse and Trent Rivers meet, it is the second-oldest colonial town in North Carolina and served as the colony's capital, with the royal governor's residence, Tryon Palace, completed in 1770. After the Revolution it grew wealthy on river trade and became one of the largest towns in the state.
Today its historic districts hold more than 160 buildings listed on the National Register within walking distance of the waterfront, from Federal-style homes and churches to the 1897 City Hall with its clock tower. Tryon Palace, rebuilt on its original foundations, anchors a complex of gardens, historic houses and a modern history center, and the Masonic Temple and Athens Theatre recall the days when New Bern was called the Athens of the South.
New Bern is also the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, first mixed by pharmacist Caleb Bradham in 1893, and bear statues around town honor its Swiss namesake. Union Point Park looks out over the rivers, the Firemen's Museum and the Civil War battlefield park add more history, and Croatan National Forest lies just south.
A reconstruction of the 1770 colonial governor's palace, built on the original foundations, with formal gardens, costumed interpreters and historic houses. The adjoining North Carolina History Center has interactive galleries on state history. Buy a combined ticket and allow at least half a day; gardens are best in spring.
A park south of downtown preserving part of the site of the 1862 Battle of New Bern, when Union forces captured the town. Walking trails pass earthworks and interpretive signs explain the fighting. It is free and quiet. Wear sturdy shoes, as some trail sections are uneven and wooded.
A historic cemetery from the early 1800s near downtown, entered through an arched gateway built of coquina-like shell stone. It holds graves of many prominent New Bern families, a Confederate monument and fine old funerary art beneath moss-draped trees. It is open daily; please be respectful.
In 1893, pharmacist Caleb Bradham created the drink later named Pepsi-Cola at his drugstore on the corner of Middle and Pollock streets. The site now has a small store and exhibit with Pepsi memorabilia and a soda fountain. It is a fun, quick stop downtown; buy a fountain drink while you look around.
A museum near downtown covering the history of New Bern's fire companies, among the oldest in the state, with antique hand-pumped and steam fire engines, uniforms, equipment and Civil War artifacts. It is small but full of detail. Check opening days, as hours are limited.
A Romanesque Revival building from 1897 with a tall clock tower at the corner of Pollock and Craven streets. Bronze bears, the city's symbol taken from Bern in Switzerland, decorate the building. It is a working government office, but the exterior is a favorite photo stop on a downtown walk.
Completed in 1822, this white Federal-style church with a tall steeple is one of the finest early churches in North Carolina. During the Civil War it served as a Union hospital and lookout. The church is active today; visitors can see the exterior anytime and may ask about interior visits.
An Episcopal congregation founded in colonial times, with a brick Gothic Revival church from the 1870s on Pollock Street. The church keeps a silver communion service given by King George II. Its shaded churchyard contains colonial-era graves. Visitors are welcome to walk the grounds.
Founded by Swiss and German settlers in 1710, New Bern has one of the state's richest historic districts, with Georgian and Federal homes, brick storefronts, galleries, restaurants and painted bear statues on many corners. Walking tour maps are available at the visitor center. Parking is free in most lots.
A waterfront park where the Neuse and Trent rivers meet at the edge of downtown, with a riverside walkway, lawns, benches, a playground and space for festivals. It is the best spot in town for sunset views over the wide Neuse. Bring a picnic, and check event dates for concerts and holiday celebrations.
A large national forest south and east of New Bern with pine savannas, swamps, rare carnivorous plants such as the Venus flytrap, and trails like the Neusiok Trail. Fishing, paddling and camping are popular. Bring insect repellent, and check fire and weather alerts before heading out on longer trails.
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North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
North Carolina, United States
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