Appreciate the artistry of hand-crafted coffee at Crema Brew. This family-owned coffeehouse is the cornerstone of New Bern’s Five Points neighborhood. Beyond the delicacy of drinks and pastries, the old-world charm of the coffeehouse is a work of art itself, making it the perfect place to begin a day of artistic adventures!

Only a short two-minute walk away is your first sight of the day. “Unity” is a 12’ tall papier-mâché sculpture created by more than 100 children in Craven County. This sculpture was a work of love and collaboration during the quarantine lockdown of 2020, representing a unified community between uptown and downtown New Bern.

 MARHMI, a group of six artists from the Dominican Republic, created this three-sided mural to beautifully encapsulate the rich history of New Bern. From its origin as a European settlement to a distinguished railroad trading hub, this art showcases how New Bern’s promising future and long history intersect like two hands intertwined.

By now you’ve probably worked up an appetite! Head over to Poppy’s Bites and Barrels for some insta-worthy southern food. Located on Pollock Street, the restaurant is dedicated to honoring veterans. You will find the beautifully-preserved building and patriotic decor the perfect atmosphere to wind down.

As if the waterfront view wasn’t enough, make your way to see the Spider Lily sculpture. The eye-catching kinetic sculpture by Susan Pascal Beran features the heirloom plant of the south. The spider lily became New Bern’s signature flower as a Navy Captain’s homecoming gift from Japan in the 1800s.

Artist Derrick Bryant, also known as Benetez, has made a tradition of his artwork, repainting it every 5 – 7 years when he visits his hometown. On the side of his mother’s hair salon, Designing Image, the mural features the sun and warm skies that cover our waterfront town at sunrise. 

Take a break from the heat with ice cream from the one & only – Cow Cafe. Treat yourself to cow-themed desserts at New Bern’s “4 Hoof” rated restaurant. Surrounded by murals of farm scenes and “moo choo train,” this beloved spot is the perfect place to channel your inner child and enjoy a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Moo-ving on… Take your ice cream to-go and cross the street. On the corner of Broad and Middle Street, you will find the Downtown New Bern Sculpture Park. A rotating exhibition of works features different artists and sculptures every 1-3 years, making art available to the public 24/7, 365 days a year.