23 Best & Fun Things to Do in New Bern (NC)

If you are currently looking for a list of fun things to do in New Bern, NC, you just found it.

Nestled close to the North Carolina Coast, New Bern is a riverfront town found in Craven County right at the meeting point of the Trent and Neuse river.

New Bern is known as the second oldest city in North Carolina after the city of Bath, with a population of twenty-nine thousand, eight hundred and eighty-five.

Some of the top places to visit in the city include Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park, New Bern Farmers Market, Beer Army Burger Company, Birthplace of Pepsi Store, Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery, New Bern Aquatic Center, and more.

New Bern offers a wide variety of attractions established to Cater to the needs of the various kinds of tourists.

Let’s explore some of the best things to do in New Bern, NC.

Things to Do in New Bern

1. New Bern Academy Museum

Another top thing to do in New Bern is learning more about the history of the city, so do well to visit the New Bern Academy Museum.

New Bern Academy Museum is a museum that features an impressive collection of exhibits associated with the fascinating tales of the community.

The Museum is housed in a historic building constructed way back in 1809, which was formerly used as a hospital during the Civil War.

After the Civil War, New Bern Academy Museum was used as a Schoolhouse up until 1971; you will find various exhibits about the history of Education, Civil War stories, the Civil War Military Occupation, and Architecture.

New Bern Academy Museum is usually open Saturdays, Fridays, and Sundays from 12:30pm-4:30pm free of charge.

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

2. Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery

One top thing to do on your first day in New Bern is visiting Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery.

Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery is a one-of-a-kind art gallery directly overlooks the River of Neusa.

This gallery showcases unique artworks by more than three hundred talented regional and international artists.

Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Gallery was founded by Virginia Spencer with the primary purpose of bringing the public closer to the world of art.

There are several sculptures, paintings, home decor, jewelry, ceramics, bronze pieces, glass items, furniture, and more on display.

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

3. The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park

The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park extends over thirty acres, an undeveloped area in a likely pristine condition.

This area was a battlefield during the civil war, precisely on the 14th of March, 1862, when the Union and Confederate soldiers fought.

The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park has been in existence for over one and a half-century with the various fighting points still intact.

There are nicely designed and easily understood panels and information along the battlefield trails and around the visitors center, giving more insight into the Civil War.

The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park is open for guided tours for simply $5 per person, and the park is open throughout the year.

This battlefield park is an excellent place for lovers of nature, dog walkers, family gatherings, history fanatics, and outdoor fans.

Address: 300 Battlefield Trail, New Bern, NC 28560-4803 United States

4. Union Point Park

At Union Point Park, the fun is just getting started, and visiting the park is one of the best things to do in the city of New Bern.

Union Point Park is a beautiful park of six acres widely surrounded by water found right at the spot where two rivers meet.

There is a beautiful playground with many play amenities for the little ones to explore and have fun.

Union Point Park consists of a fishing pier and two public boat launches open for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

There are picnic areas with many picnic tables, wooden benches, and grills scattered throughout the park, where visitors can stop by to relax and feast.

Whenever you want to relax or have fun make sure you visit this park and also enjoy the amazing scenery and tranquility.

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

5. Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park

A visit to Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park should be added to your list of fun things to do in New Bern, NC, especially if you love nature.

Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park is a nature park open to the public and a place that offers several outdoor recreation activities.

The park is a popular place for birdwatching as you will find a wide variety of birds flocking around the nature Park.

Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park is also perfect for hiking, kayaking, biking, and fishing, consisting of an excellent fishing area with a dock and kayak launch.

There is a boardwalk of approximately 2, 000-foot which spirals around the park offering incredible views of the broad creek.

Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park features a good number of picnic areas with picnic shelters and tables, plus its beautiful scenery.

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

6. Stand Up Outfitters

Are you in the mood to have an amazing, fun time? Add a visit to Stand Up Outfitters to your list of things to do in New Bern.

Stand Up Outfitters was founded in 2011 as a lovely store offering a wide variety of Stand-up equipment for paddling.

This paddle-powered shop offers good equipment for rentals and purchases that guarantees you an amazing kayaking, skating, and surfing equipment.

Stand Up Outfitters offers exciting lessons, events, tours, workshops, and many more.

The tours and lessons are usually fun and exciting, do well to visit and make sure you participate in any of their events.

Address: 1305 Country Club Rd, New Bern, NC 28562, United States

7. Civic Theatre

The Civic Theatre was established in 1911 on the 11th of April as a non-profit community theatre in New Bern.

The theater has become part of the city’s history; it first began with five hundred and seventy-two seats and was then known as Athens Theatre.

The Civic Theatre has been renamed a couple of times like Show shop theatre, Kehoe theatre, and Tryon theatre before it was later shut down in the late-1970s.

Since the 1980s, when the theatre underwent a series of renovations, it has been open since then as the Civic Theatre.

The Civic Theatre also offers a wide variety of workshops, the best live productions, special events, and more all year round.

This Theatre is popularly known as “the Athens of North Carolina,” and it has been a venue for rehearsals, auditions, and performances.

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

8. Bear City Fudge Company

How about trying out fresh, delicious treats? Add a visit to Bear City Fudge Company to your list of fun things to do in New Bern, NC.

Bear City Fudge Company was established in 2003 and has become a favorite place for many people, especially little children.

The company is well known for making and selling an extensive collection of sweets and cakes, always available in different flavors.

Bear City Fudge Company offers the best homemade cream, pralines, fudge, and gourmet food you can’t get elsewhere.

You’re offered a wide variety of options, starting from caramels, truffles, and ice cream in different flavors and combinations.

Make sure you visit Bear City Fudge Company with your little ones and try out all the amazing treats they offer.

Address: 236 Middle St C, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

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9. Croatan National Forest

If you’re a nature aficionado, add a visit to Croatan National Forest to your list of top things to do in New Bern, NC for an amazing experience.

Croatan National Forest stretches for one hundred and sixty acres of natural resources such as saltwater estuaries, swamps, pine forests, bogs, and more.

This forest is one of the only four National Forest in the State, which also serves as a sanctuary for several wildlife like alligators, deer, ospreys, turkeys, and black bears.

 Croatan National Forest is an excellent place for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing either on the saltwater marshes or Blackwater Creek.

The forest is also home to different species of plants, including wildflowers, pitch plants, live oaks, venue fly-traps, and more.

You can also decide to go camping as there are lots of campsites in the Croatan National Forest for those who would like to stay for a while.

Address: 141 E. Fisher Ave., New Bern, NC 28560 United States

10. Pontoon Boat Tours

Are you searching for a company that offers exceptional cruises? Pontoon Boat Tours should be on your list of fun things to do in New Bern, NC.

Pontoon Boat Tours is a certified cruise company that offers three various daytime cruises, including one sunset cruise.

The company offers a 24-foot pontoon boat that leaves downtown New Bern from the DoubleTree Hilton before cruising the beautiful river.

Pontoon Boat Tours offers cruises that last from 60 minutes to 90 minutes; the sunset cruises take visitors close to the dip of the sun right under the horizon.

The cruises passes by several breathtaking riverside landscapes, Historical buildings, attractions, and more.

The tour guides are well informed, sharing stories and history about the region while the visitors enjoy drinks and snacks with cool music.

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

11. Bear Towne Escape Room

Add a visit to Bear Towne Escape Room with your friends and family on your list of fun things to do in New Bern, NC.

Bear Towne Escape Room is a physical adventure requiring full concentration, a high level of curiosity, and logical thinking.

The players are offered 60 minutes to solve puzzles or riddles and search for clues and ideas to help them escape the room in time.

Bear Towne Escape Room is a family-owned and operated business founded in 2015 by Eric and Brittany with sophisticated escape rooms and themes for optimum excitement.

They are open on Monday & Tuesday from 4-8pm, Wednesday & Thursday from 4-8:30pm, Friday from 3-9pm, Saturday from 11am-9pm, and Sunday from 12-7pm.

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

12. New Bern Tours

New Bern Tours has been in existence since 1994 and has continuously offered exciting tours of the city of New Bern.

They offer a variety of vehicles such as motors cars and trolleys with professional coaches and well-experienced coaches.

New Bern Tours also educates the guests about the first capital of North Carolina and other interesting facts during the tour.

During the tours, participants get to visit museums, historical landmarks, galleries, exciting parks, historic homes, and more.

If you want a private tour, a tour can be customized for you for different kinds of special occasions, plus hotel and dinner recommendations if needed.

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

13. The New Bern Aquatic Center

Are you looking for a place to cool off during a hot summer day? Add a visit to the New Bern Aquatic Center to your list of top things to do in New Bern, NC.

The New Bern Aquatic Center is a family fun center offering visitors a fun experience through the availability of several amenities.

The center consists of a zero-entry pool with several swim lanes and slides. There are locker rooms, a space for resting, offices, and others.

The New Bern Aquatic Center provides dedicated lifeguards, pool operators, and attendants throughout the facility.

The New Bern Aquatic Center is the best place for you whenever you want to organize that special party, summer camping, family gatherings, get-togethers, and more.

Address: 1155 Laura Ln, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

14. John Wright Stanly House

John Wright Stanly House was erected in 1779, and it was designed by John Hawks for John Wright Stanly.

This house stands out as one of the most beautiful Georgian architecture in the region; Federal forces colonized John Wright Stanly House during the Civil War.

John Wright Stanly House interior is characterized by exquisite features which require your full concentration and attention.

This house is a heaven for many history fanatics; the building is rich with history, and there is something new to learn.

 Address: 307 George St, New Bern, North Carolina 28562 United States

15. New Bern Farmers Market

The New Bern Farmers Market is a community market that was established in 1984, offering local farmers an opportunity to advertise their products.

This market offers a diverse selection of vendors from different parts of the state, offering patrons a wide range of goods and services.

The New Bern Farmers Market offers handmade artworks, freshly sourced vegetables & fruits, baked goods, craftworks, and more.

You can also shop for freshly cut flowers, dairy items, fashionable clothing, fresh eggs, meats, and many more.

New Bern Farmers Market offers the best quality products for reasonable costs; you can’t get anywhere else.

The market offers you a chance to meet and interact with many residents and learn about their native dishes.

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

For a fun road trip in North Carolina, do not miss exploring our checklist of things to do in Burlington, things to do in Black Mountain, and things to do in Statesville.

16. Tryon Palace

Tryon Palace is an ancient structure which is also called the Governor’s Palace, which was used in the 18th century for different purposes.

This historic building was the official home of the North Carolina colonial governors and the administrative headquarters.

Tryon Palace is an incredibly beautiful property surrounded by sixteen acres of nicely manicured gardens.

The gardens and grounds have been in existence for three centuries, and its gardening heritage makes it stand out from other historic sites.

Tryon Palace is open to people of all ages for tours around the building from Monday to Sunday.

The building offers exciting games and significant hands-on exhibits for the public to explore; Tryon Palace ought to be on your list of best things to do in New Bern, NC.

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

17. The New Bern Firemen’s Museum

A museum where you get to discover new facts you certainly haven’t heard of in New Bern is the New Bern Firemen’s Museum.

The New Bern Firemen’s Museum opened its doors to the public in 1955, and its main focus is on preserving the firefighting history in the city.

There is a wide variety of hands-on exhibits with an outstanding collection of original memorabilia, which talks about the history of the oldest fire company.

The New Bern Firemen’s Museum educates the public about the New Bern Steam Fire Engine Company and the Atlantic Hook & Ladder Company.

You also get to learn more about the tragedy that occurred in 1922 when over one thousand buildings were destroyed by fire.

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

18. New Bern National Cemetery

New Bern National Cemetery is a National Cemetery founded by the United States in New Bern, consisting of seven thousand, five hundred and seventeen graves.

The cemetery is operated and managed by the Department of Veterans of the United States; they are in charge of those who want a burial site in the New Bern National Cemetery.

New Bern National Cemetery is open to visitors who would like to pay their last respect to the soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives for the nation.

This national cemetery was officially opened on the 1st of February, 1867, and in 1997, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: 1711 National Ave, New Bern, North Carolina 28560 United States

19. Crystal Coast Lady Cruise

Crystal Coast Lady Cruise is an enterprise that offers visitors nothing but a memorable experience in New Bern.

The company does this by offering guests different varieties of cruises, tours, and trips both on the Trent and Neuse Rivers.

These cruises are offered on a customized motor yacht of 100-foot made of aluminum, also known as the Crystal Coast Lady.

Crystal Coast Lady Cruise consists of a large indoor upper deck and main deck, which features a climate-controlled cabin.

The Crystal Coast Lady also consists of two full-time bars, a fully packed gallery, unique electronics, and a steering station for only kids.

There is an outdoor and indoor seating which can accommodate up to two hundred and sixty-five persons at once.

Crystal Coast Lady Cruise is perfect for special events, family reunions or fishing trips, sunset cruises, lunch cruises, and more.

Address: 600 Front St, Beaufort, NC 28516, United States

20. The Birthplace of Pepsi Store

Are you a big consumer of Pepsi? Add a visit to the Birthplace of Pepsi Store to your list of best things to do in New Bern, NC.

The Birthplace of Pepsi Store is found in New Bern, making the drink one of the most popular in the city.

The celebrated Pepsi drink was produced by one man known as Caleb Bradham in 1898 right in his pharmacy.

The Birthplace of Pepsi Store was founded in 1998 on the day that marks its 100th anniversary; visit the store and learn more about the history of Pepsi.

This store also offers beautiful souvenirs, gifts, and more available for visitors to purchase. The Birthplace of Pepsi Store is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am-6pm, and Sunday from 12pm-4pm.

Address: 256 Middle St, New Bern, North Carolina, NC 28560-2142 United States

21. Cow Cafe

For a more unique dining experience, add a visit to Cow Cafe to your list of best things to do in New Bern, NC with friends and family.

Cow Cafe is a unique cafeteria beautifully decorated in a cow-inspired theme serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The cafe is surrounded by lovely murals relating to different farm scenes, with a barnyard playground featuring tractors, cows, and many farming instruments for children.

Cow Cafe provides a friendly and welcoming environment for guests to enjoy with a moo choo train moving around the dining room.

The cafe serves Cheesesteak MooBern, gobbling cow, Cuban cow, Grandmoo’s Chicken Salad, Chicken Lemoooon, Kickin’ Creole Cow, Chicken Cordon Moo, California Cow, The Gobbling Chef Salad, MooAnnie’s Grilled Cheese, and more.

They also serve delicious drinks like Pepper, Root Beer, Fruit Punch, Sweet or Unsweetened Iced Tea, and a wide variety of ice creams such as Uncle Mooford’s Chocolate Mountain, Cowlossal Cookie Sundae, Cowamel Apple Walnut Pie ala moo, and more.

Address: 319 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

22. Brewery99

Brewery99 was established in 2015 by an individual passionate about producing and serving the public.

They use the highest quality and locally grown ingredients in producing beers, the reason for their unique and flavorful tastes.

The brewery features a nice taproom where a wide variety of beers are sampled, and guests are allowed to try out whichever they like.

Brewery99 features a spacious beer garden where guests can relax with their family and friends to enjoy their drinks.

Some drinks served included Confignorant Pale Ale, Hideout Oatmeal Stout, Tasty Pants Lager, Coastalina Mist Hard Seltzer, Chaos Agent Imperial Stout, Le Freak, and more.

Brewery99 is open on Wednesday & Thursday from 4-8pm, Friday & Saturday from 12-9pm, and Sunday from 12-5pm ( closed Monday and Tuesday)

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

23. Beer Army Burger Company

Beer Army Burger Company is a unique family-friendly restaurant that guarantees you nothing but the best.

The company also features a lovely taproom that offers visitors a wide selection of drinks to try out, including draft beers, cocktails, and more.

Beer Army Burger Company provides a peaceful area with a 25-square foot bar featuring highly comfortable seats perfect for visitors to relax and try out some beer samples.

They offer drinks like Fire in the hole, liquid bliss, baba organic black lager, Brooklyn summer ale, firestone walker, whiskey tanco foxtrot, blackberry-citrus old-fashioned, and more.

Beer Army Burger Company serves a small food menu including caesar salad, Napalm Burger with Fries, Fried Pickle Spears, pulled pork, chicken tenders, Beer Cheese Pretzels, chicken & waffles, Philly Cheese Steak, and more.

The company is open from Sunday to Thursday from 11an-10pm, and Friday & Saturday from 11am-11pm.

Address: 313 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560, United States

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Plan a Trip to New Bern

New Bern features various attractions, including entertainment centers, museums, fun parks, art galleries, and more.

This is a highly tourist-friendly city, perfect for a memorable family getaway. There is always something for everyone, whether you just want to relax, have fun or visit some innovative centers.

Do well to plan a trip to New Bern for your next vacation as this city is definitely worth a visit.