Carolina Day Trips: Insider Guide to a New Bern, NC Getaway

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Tours in Tryon Palace are always guided;
the historic houses may or may not have tour leaders. Don’t miss this adventure – in colonial times, it was known as one of the most beautiful houses in America. (Allow one-half day to see everything – less time for an overview.)

	New Bern, NC

Carolina Day Trips: Insider Tips for Visiting New Bern, NC

f you only have 36 hours to spend
in New Bern …

You’ll find plenty of ways to amuse little ones, history lovers, sports enthusiasts and shop-til-you-droppers. Unlike many destinations which seem to specialize in attracting visitors with certain interests, New Bern has it all, beginning with an appealing downtown and unique attractions.

Celebrating their 300th anniversary in 2010, New Bern has even more than its usual delightful fare, beginning with the bears.

These whimsical fiberglass creatures were created by local artists. Visitors can stalk their prey and find the bears (with the help of a map from the New Bern/Craven County Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Children can play “Where on the Bear” to find hidden features on each bear. Whether you go on a hunt, or simply enjoy stumbling on them around the area, their very presence adds to the fun.


bit more regal entertainment will be found at Tryon Palace, with its seven major buildings, 14 acres of gardens, and craft demonstrations to remind us how life used to be. (You will probably cross paths with somebody from history, so be alert.) For lunch, you have options. Morgan’s Tavern and Grill comes highly recommended by folks on Trip Advisor, who’ve awarded it the #1 dining choice in New Bern. With lunch specials and homemade desserts, you can’t go wrong. (The super friendly staff helps, too.) Sated with history and yummies, it’s time to stroll the streets in search of memorabilia. Carolina Creations features hand blown, hand thrown gifts. I’ve got my eye on a garden sparkler – a perfect centerpiece for the herb garden. Another must-visit is the Boathouse, with its nautical gifts (we are on the water, after all). Opt for a t-shirt, or perhaps a waterside print or miniature lighthouse. Lots of fun. And speaking of which, if you love critters, stop by Nauti Paws and look for Diving Doggies: A Celebration of Play Underwater. Not only will you see canines in a whole new light, Brooke Mayo, the photographer, is recognized for her great skill at capturing our world. (Check out the reviews on Amazon and you’ll find effusive adoration of this artist.) After you’ve done your bit to help the economy recover, perhaps you’d like to consider a more formal way to get to know the area. Depending on your fitness level and fear factor, you can choose from Tarheel Adventures Segway Tours (earpiece provided to self-guide), Carolina Carriage Tours, New Bern Trolley Tours, tugboat water tours from the Grand Marina or Colonial Capital Helicopter Tours for a true “overview.” Once you’ve seen it all it’s clear; you’ve got to stay the night. With great possibilities, you can choose what fits your mood and pocketbook. The Aerie Bed & Breakfast – an Inn of Distinction is one block from the Tryon Palace and within walking distance to shopping, dining and the marina, plus other attractions. The Inn is romantic, historic, warm and charming – perfect for those with discriminating tastes. A number of visitors recommend dinner at Harvey Mansion Historic Inn & Restaurant, for a bit of a splurge. It’s another good possibility for lodging as well. The wine list is topnotch and the menu filled with regional favorites and classics. You can’t go wrong. After all that, if you’ve got any energy at all, consider an evening ghost tour. Ghosts of New Bern is a walking tour that begins at Morgan’s Grill at 7:30 pm Wednesdays through Sundays. Myth and legend are interwoven. You’ll learn something and have fun in the process. With full tummies and tired legs, return to a sumptuous bed and rest up for tomorrow. Day two promises more adventure. For sure, plan a visit to the Croatan National Forest and specifically the Island Creek Forest Trail walk. Well marked with easy ups and downs, you’ll need boots in damp weather. At almost 160,000 acres, the forest is bordered by several rivers and has excellent recreation and camping facilities. And, it’s simply beautiful! Back in town, if you’ve got time, the Birthplace of Pepsi is good for an inexpensive cold drink, and the Fireman’s Museum will amuse little ones. Finally, there’s always fun to be had watching the boats come and go at the marina. From sailboats to tugboat tours and fishing vessels, the water’s the thing, here and has been so for generations – 300 years, to be precise. Recommended Reading New Bern, NC Day Trips Directory



About the Author Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business and management.