Tryon Palace

529 South Front Street, New Bern, North Carolina, (800) 767-1560. At Tryon Palace, North Carolina's history is more than a story...it's an experience. At Tryon Palace, you can participate in a living history like no other — one that uniquely blends cutting-edge technology with the events, experiences and tools of centuries past. Immersive encounters and learning adventures abound for the whole family. Interactive, multi-person games and hands-on exhibits delight visitors young and old at the new North Carolina History Center, while guided tours, live re-enactments and conversations with costumed interpreters bring history to life in vivid detail at the Governor’s Palace, Gardens and Historic Homes. Whether you’re exploring one of our riverside gardens or sharpening your skills as a quilter, printer, ship’s captain or blacksmith, there are endless opportunities for making cherished family memories at Tryon Palace.

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New Bern Trolley Tour

(Trolley Tour) – 333 Middle Street, New Bern, North Carolina, (252) 637-7316. Experience the charm of Historic Downtown New Bern in a 90 minute tour. Professional guides recount the fascinating historical and architectural details of this former royal capital of North Carolina. Tours begin and end at Tryon Palace. April through October tours begin Mon-Sat at 11am & 2pm, Sunday at 2pm; November tours are Monday and Saturday at 11am & 2pm and Tues-Fri and Sunday at 2pm only; December tours take place Thursday thru Sunday at 2pm; January and February toursare Sat-Sun at 2pm and tours take place on Fri-Mon at 2pm in March. Tickets can be purchased on board the trolley.

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Birthplace of Pepsi

256 Middle Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 636-5898. On this spot in his pharmacy, Caleb Bradham invented “Brad’s Drink,” which later he patented as Pepsi Cola. Today you can relax and enjoy a Pepsi Cola at the recreated soda fountain and purchase a souvenir. No admission fee.

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New Bern Firemen's Museum

408 Hancock Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 636-4087. Take a step back in time where horse drawn steam engines are brought back to life. Listen to the tales of the first Chartered Fire Department in the State of North Carolina and enjoy an educational and historical look at the City of New Bern Fire Department. The Firemen’s Museum houses steam pumpers and an extensive collection of early fire-fighting equipment along with rare photographs, Civil War relics, and even the mounted head of a faithful old fire-horse named Fred, who died while answering an alarm. Admission is $5 for adults, $2.50 for children and free for children 6 years and younger.

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Bank of the Arts

317 Middle Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 638-2577. This former bank building (c.1913), headquarters of the Craven Arts Council and Gallery, is both a cultural and an architectural treat. The Bank of the Arts changes exhibits of various media such as painting, sculpture, photography, pottery, and fiber art by artists of the southeastern United States are provided free of charge in the Bank of the Arts gallery area.

 

**The Bank of the Arts/Craven Arts Council will be closed for renovations for 4-6 months beginning March 14, 2013. The Craven Arts Council's Office will be temporarily located at 308 George Street from March 26th until the renovations are complete. The box office, all other business and gift shop sales will be conducted at the George Street location.**

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Scenic River Cruises

New Bern Grand Marina, Dock F, Middle Street, New Bern, North Carolina, 252-504-2628. Step aboard the M/V Lookout Lady and cruise the calm, inland waters with New Bern's largest cruising fleet.  This fast, comfortable, and stable catamaran is licensed and inspected by the USCG for 49 passengers, enabling us to go farther and see more during the trip. Enjoy nature's beauty on a 2-hour, fully narrated, relaxing cruise while seeing New Bern's picturesque & historical waterfront in its splendor, including Tryon Palace, the N.C. History Museum, and New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.  Then sit back and enjoy the beauty of the river while cruising past Millionaires Row (including the homes of Nicholas Sparks and former Gov. Beverly Perdue) and the world famous "Notebook" house.  See ospreys, deer, otters and possibly alligators.  We even pull a commercial crab pot giving you a taste of life as a professional crab fisherman.  A fun experience for all ages.  (Call for info on our Discovery Nature Cruises.) Tour times are April through October,  Mon-Sat at 10am, 12:30pm & 3pm and Sun 11am. Special Sunset Cruises depart from Dock F. June, July and August tours are Thurs-Sat from 6:30-8:30pm. From Mid-September through February the M/V Crystal Coast Lady, a 75' Luxury Yacht, docks in New Bern Grand Marina offering Lunch & Dinner Sightseeing Cruises.  This vessel is also available for private parties and events. Located at the New Bern Grand Marina - Dock F. Call 252-728-8687 for more information.

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Tugboat Cruises

New Bern Grand Marina Dock E, (252) 349-3819. Enjoy a tug boat cruise, hosted by a local captain, along the beautiful Neuse and Trent Rivers or ub Brices Creek. Pick your interest:  wildlife, gorgeous homes, remote tanin-stained waters, interesting insights - a view of our area that is part of the allure that has made this area so special for 300 years. Standard cruises are 2 hours in length for up to 6 passengers and vary in price based on the number of your party. Quick 30 minute harbor tours are also available. Special charters/custom cruises available including private 'Romantic Evenings.' Tours depart from the New Bern Grand Marina's E-Dock located behind the DoubleTree Hotel.

 

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On the Wind Sailing Cruises

Northwest Creek Marina, New Bern, North Carolina, (252) 670-3047. Harness the power of the wind to take you on a journey away from the ordinary when you set sail on "Nirvana," a 43 ft. ocean going sailing sloop skippered by a US Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Take the wheel and steer the boat or just sit back and enjoy the cruise. You can sit in the shade or sun on the deck as you explore the waters the notorious pirate Blackbeard sailed before he met his demise in 1718. Enjoy brilliant sunsets, see osprey nests and other local wildlife as you learn about the history of the surrounding area. Find out why the North Carolina Coast is known as the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" and learn how a sailboat can sail into the wind. Complimentary soft drinks are served and you are welcome to bring your own cooler with your favorite beverages and food. Reserve your spot on the next hour and a half daysail or sunset cruise so you can experience the wonderful world of sailing!

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Excursions on Land & On the Water with Palm Coast Tours & Outings

Fairfield Harbour Recreation Center, 107 Marina Drive, New Bern, North Carolina, (252) 665-1175. Discover our family-friendly activities for New Bern-Craven County visitors on both land and on the water. Our professional guides will entertain and introduce you to ALL that our local historical towns and sites have to offer. Current tour destinations include historic New Bern, Beaufort, the village of Oriental, the NC Aquarium, Eastern Carolina Aviation Exhibit, and the beautiful Neuse River. ALL of our land tours & outings include our exclusive discount coupon package for local businesses. Regular tours & outings depart from and return to the Recreation Center in Fairfield Harbour located at 107 Marina Drive. Experience the awesome power of the wind when you ride on one of our 2-hour sailing cruises up the beautiful Neuse River. Take time out to enjoy a relaxing sail aboard our 43 ft. sailboat, Two Peas.  Our USCG licensed Captain & Crew will take you on a fun outing where you can experience the rush of moving along the river with just the power of the wind.  This sailing excursion will be one of the most memorable highlights of your visit.  The sail trips depart from Northwest Creek Marina in Fairfield Harbour.

 

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Rivertowne Ballroom

305 Pollock Street, New Bern, North Carolina, (252) 637-2003. Located in historic downtown New Bern, the Rivertowne Ballroom dance studio specializes in teaching all the most popular social and ballroom dances, as well as line dancing and Zumba fitness classes. Our well-trained and experienced staff can instruct people at all levels, from the beginner who has never danced before to the advanced student who wants to perform or compete. We offer three types of learning experiences, group lessons, private lessons and dance parties in a warm and friendly environment. All our classes and dancy party events are open to the public. We require no contracts and drop-ins are always welcome. Visit our website for more information and to view our monthly calendar of events.

 

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Havelock Tourist & Event Center USMC Aviation Exhibit

252-444-4348, 201 Tourist Center Drive, Havelock, North Carolina. Discover an exciting aviation exhibit highlighting over 100 years of aviation in Eastern North Carolina. Eight restored aircraft on loan from the US Marine Corps and Department of the Navy are on display along with scaled models depicting the aircraft lineage of the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing at MCAS Cherry Point from its inception in 1942. Historic photographs and artifacts from Indian settlements to civil war history round out the exhibit. The adjacent waterfront park along Slocum Creek features a nature boardwalk and boat ramp. 

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MCAS Cherry Point

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is one of the country's largest Marine Corps air stations, occupying nearly 16,000 acres. It is home to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and the Navy's Fleet Readiness Center-East -- the largest industrial employer in eastern North Carolina. The roar of jets overhead or the rumble of helicopters is affectionately known around here as "the sound of freedom!" Tours are available on weekdays by appointment only; and include observation of Marines at work and the aircraft and other equipment that Marines use to complete their mission of being America's 9-1-1 force. Tours can be scheduled by calling (252) 466-4241. Visit the Cherry Point website at www.cherrypoint.marines.mil and select the "Public Affairs" tab to learn more about visiting the air station.

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Croatan National Forest

141 East Fisher Avenue, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 638-5628. The Croatan National Forest was one site of a battle that was fought in New Bern during the Civil War. Outdoor recreation opportunities include camping, picnicking, hiking, hunting, and fishing. The Croatan Forest has been nationally recognized for its trails and recreation opportunities.

 

Grumman F-11A Tiger Jet Memorial

(252) 638-5781, Lawson Creek Park, New Bern, North Carolina. Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation and the City of New Bern are very appreciative of the public/private partnership that led to the restoration and relocation of the historic Grumman F-11A Tiger Jet to a highly visible location in Lawson Creek Park. The F-11A Tiger aircraft, dedicated to the City in 1973 in recognition of the community's close relationship with MCAS Cherry Point, deteriorated over the 37 years it was displayed and lost its visibility on MLK Boulevard due to extensive growth along the business corridor. In 2009, the Department of the Navy, National Museum of Naval Aviation, made a site inspection requesting renovation of the plane or they would require the City to return the aircraft to the National Museum of Naval Aviation. The sidewalk circling the base of the jet allows pedestrians to walk around the site easily and have greater visibility of the historic artifact.

 

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Havelock 9/11 Memorial Plaza

(252) 444-7260, Havelock, North Carolina.  On September 11, 2011, nearly three years after requesting an artifact from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and the 10 year anniversary of the attacks of 2001, the City of Havelock dedicated an erected artifact from the World Trade Center. During the next year, the design and assembly of other integral pieces came together in time to dedicate the City's 9/11 Memorial Plaza on September 11, 2012. The Memorial contains an artifact over 10,000 lbs supported in concrete in the same position it was as a part of the building it came from.  A double wall surrounds the artifact, ringed with bricks donated by those with a special connection to the event and others simply recognizing the sacrifices. On pedestals around the artifact, are additional remnants of the other sites affected; a limestone brick from the Pentagon wall and a piece of shale from the field in Shanksville, PA. The names of each of the sites and the official times of their attacks are emblazoned on the circular wall around the memorial, doubling as benches on which to pause and reflect.  The memorial is lit at night, and open 24 hours a day, immediately between the Police/Fire Station and US Hwy 70 in midtown Havelock, just right of the Harrier monument. The City of Havelock welcomes all visitors.

 

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Ghosts of New Bern Walking Tour

252-571-4766, Historic Downtown New Bern, North Carolina. New Bern is rich in history and heritage. Let the Ghosts of New Bern share some of the old city’s mysteries, myths and legends with you on an entertaining one-hour walking tour through the streets of the Historic District. Explore why New Bern is host to many unexplained happenings and unsolved mysteries. Do ghosts really haunt some of the city’s buildings and walk its streets? You be the judge! Tours are available Wednesday through Saturday evening at 7:30pm beginning at Morgan’s Tavern & Grill (235 Craven St.) During the summer, tours also are offered at 8:30pm. Adult tickets are $12 and children 12 years and under are $6. Check our website www.ghostsofnewbern.com for tour schedule, pricing, and special offers and events.

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Carolina Carriage & Tours

252-675-5360, New Bern, North Carolina. Enjoy a daytime tour of New Bern's downtown historic district or choose a romantic evening drive through this beautiful coastal town while relaxing in a horse drawn carriage. Hours of operation are Fridays from 5:30pm-9:30pm and Saturdays from 1pm-9pm. Please call for more information or to make a reservation.

 

Bear Town Bears

Bears are making tracks all over New Bern…decorated, fiberglass bears that is! Adored with hats, flags, flowers and other unusual and creative features, you will be delighted with each bear’s unique design. To coincide with New Bern’s 300th Anniversary Celebration in 2010, Bear Town Bears, a nonprofit organization, recruited local artists to implement hand-painted designs on life-size standing and walking fiberglass bears for public enjoyment during the entire year. Sponsors for the bears have placed their bears in historic downtown, as well as in outlying areas. The public is invited to enjoy their own “Bear Tracks Hunt” by picking up a free map from the New Bern/Craven County Convention & Visitors Center, the New Bern Chamber of Commerce and other supporting businesses. Children can participate by playing the game “Where on the Bear” to find hidden features on each bear using clues listed on the map. Track bears all over New Bern while enjoying the beauty of these public art sculptures in 2010!

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Captain Bly's Shipwreck Cove

4605 US Hwy 70 East, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 636-COVE. Enjoy fun in the sun at Captain Bly’s Shipwreck Cove! We offer Pirate’s Plunge Water Slides, Splash 'N' Slide, Buccaneer Bounce, Castaway Island Mini Golf and Pirate’s Cove Batting Cages. Activity pricing is available with activities offered for all ages as well as Birthday Party Packages. Please visit our website for more information on the fun activities we have to offer.

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National Cemetery

National Avenue, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 637-2912. The graves of brave soldiers who fought and died for our country make up the National Cemetery found in historic New Bern.

 

Farmer’s Market

421 South Front Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 633-0043. Fresh local produce is available in the historic New Bern Farmer’s Market. Also a location for community gatherings and events. Can be rented for special occasions.

**Now open on Tuesdays at 8:00 a.m.**

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New Bern Civic Theatre

(Saax Bradbury Playhouse) - 414 Pollock Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 633-0567. The New Bern Civic Theatre presents dramas, comedies, musicals and even performances in sign language. Call for a complete listing of performances and dates.

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RiverTowne Players

(252) 633-3318, 514 Hancock Street, New Bern, North Carolina. This volunteer community theatre performs several shows annually including musicals, dramas, comedies, concerts and Rising Stars productions. RiverTowne's performing arts home is the historic Masonic Theatre.

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Christ Episcopal Church

320 Pollock Street, (252) 633-2109. Founded as Craven Parish in 1715, it is the third oldest church in North Carolina. Visitors may walk the historic church grounds, including the outdoor chapel, which is built over the site of the first church building (c. 1752), and visit the church building, including the Communion Silver given by King George II in 1752. Tours are available Monday-Friday from 12:30pm-4pm.

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Foscue Plantation

7509 US Highway 17, Pollocksville, North Carolina (252) 224-1803. Located just 10 miles south of New Bern, the Foscue Plantation welcomes you to a period in time more than 200 years ago. Built in 1824 by Simon Foscue, Jr., the plantation house has been in the family for eight generations. The décor is high-style antebellum and retains a number of original furnishings. In addition, the family has continued to acquire antiques which are correct to the period. If you want to step back in time and find out about a fascinating tale of love and war and the strength of a Southern family, you have come to the right place! With three floors and a working basement, cemetery, garden, forest, plantation land, and the Trent River at the back of the property, there is certainly much to see.

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Stand Up Outfitters

244 Craven Street, New Bern, North Carolina (252) 514-0404. Experience the amazing beauty of New Bern’s twin rivers on a Stand Up Paddleboard! We make it easy and fun to enjoy the planet’s most popular watersport. Suitable for people of all ages, SUP is the perfect excursion for family outings, date nights, and girls (or guys) gone wild. We offer SUP rentals, river tours, and classes from beginners to advanced taught by an ACA Certified SUP Instructor. We also stock a huge selection of new SUP boards, paddles and all the fun accessories. Forget your sunblock or flip flops? We specialize in sun protection gear from head to toe, and exclusive active lifestyle provisions. Call us today to customize your New Bern SUP adventure!

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Bear Town Adventure Co. Kayak & Bike Tours

Bear Town Adventure Co. is now offering Kayak and Bike Tours for the public to enjoy! Kayak Tours available include a 2 Hour Eco Adventure for $50/Person, 4 Hour Eco Adventure for $75/Person, Disc Golf Excursion for $75/Person, Fishing Excursion for $75/Person and a Full Moon Paddle for $50/Person. Bike Tours available include the Historic Downtown Bike tour for $20/Person and the New Bern Nightlight Tour for $20/Person. For booking information please call (252) 288-5823 or Visit Surf, Wind and Fire located on Middle Street in Downtown New Bern.