The Ultimate Day Trip to New Bern, NC (Travel Guide)
Ready to explore? Let’s take a day trip and explore deeper into the magic of New Bern!
New Bern is the coolest little secret on the East Coast, tucked away near the Pamlico Sound with a riverfront charm that’ll sweep you off your feet.
Think cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses, sailboats bobbing on sparkling water, and history whispering from every corner. This North Carolina city is the second-oldest European settlement in the state, where pirates and colonists came together.
It was even the first capital of North Carolina, back when people like George Washington were strolling through town.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Thanks for the support!
Traveling to New Bern for a Day Trip: How to Get There
Other than taking a train from Fayetteville, the best mode of transportation is driving a car or a bus.
If you’re going to New Bern from Asheville by car, this scenic route takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes via I-40 E and US-70 E. Brace yourself for stunning mountain views and winding roads through Pisgah National Forest.
Greyhound offers a direct bus from Asheville to New Bern with a travel time of around 6 hours. It’s not the fastest option, but you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the changing scenery.
If you’re coming from Raleigh, driving a car is the quickest option, taking about 2 hours and 15 minutes via I-40 E. Cruise through rolling farmland and charming towns like Greenville along the way.
You may look into going by the Amtrak train, which offers a scenic train ride from Raleigh to New Bern, taking about 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Greyhound and GoRaleigh both offer bus options from Raleigh to New Bern, with travel times ranging from 3 to 4 hours. It’s a budget-friendly choice, perfect for saving some travel funds for New Bern adventures.
Getting Around New Bern
One of the most popular options is to walk around Downtown New Bern, as it is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it a delightful place to explore on foot.
Hop on a bicycle and cycle along the beautiful Neuse River Greenway. Breathe in the fresh air as you pass by parks, boat launches, and scenic overlooks.
Coastal Cycle Share offers convenient bike rentals, making it easy to explore on two wheels.
New Bern Trolley offers a hop-on, hop-off tour that takes you to all the major attractions, from Tryon Palace to the New Bern Riverfront. Sit back, relax, and let the guide tell you stories of the town’s history and culture.
For a unique perspective, hop on a water taxi and cruise along the Neuse River. This is a fun way to get around while enjoying the waterfront scenery.
Uber and Lyft also operate in New Bern, offering another convenient option for getting around town.
Top Restaurants to Eat for a Day Trip to New Bern
- Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant: Nestled on the historic downtown waterfront, Persimmons boasts stunning river views and an elegant yet casual atmosphere. Savor their signature Carolina crab cakes, indulge in the pan-seared scallops with risotto, or try their decadent chocolate lava cake for a sweet ending.
- Captain Ratty’s Seafood & Steakhouse: This lively spot offers a true taste of the coast, with fresh seafood dishes like grilled grouper, succulent crab legs, and peel-and-eat shrimp. Don’t miss their award-winning clam chowder and juicy steaks.
- The Chelsea: This charming downtown restaurant with outdoor seating serves up New American cuisine with a Southern twist. Their shrimp and grits are legendary, and the fried chicken is a crispy, golden masterpiece.
- Cow Cafe: This cozy cafe is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. Their menu features classic Southern dishes like fluffy pancakes, cheesy grits, and creamy chicken pot pie.
- Michael’s Pub & Patio: This restaurant is a vibrant hub where friendly faces, delicious food, and good times create a truly memorable experience. Try the signature “Michael’s Burger” with cheddar cheese, bacon, and fried onions, or indulge in the “Blackened Cajun Burger” with its spicy kick.
Seasonal Events to Attend in this Charming City
New Bern, North Carolina, knows how to celebrate the seasons! From vibrant spring festivals to cozy winter gatherings, there’s always something special happening in this historic town.
If you want something a bit more exciting, look into booking a day trip to New Bern when one of these events takes place.
- Mumfest: This massive chrysanthemum festival is the crown jewel of New Bern’s spring. Held in October, the town explodes with a riot of color as over 150,000 mums are on display. There’s live music, arts and crafts vendors, and even a Mum Queen Pageant!
- New Bern Farmers Market: As the weather warms up, the New Bern Farmers Market comes alive with fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts. It’s a great place to meet local vendors.
- Footloose on the Neuse Summer Concert Series: Enjoy free concerts by local and regional bands every Thursday night throughout the summer at Union Point Park.
- New Bern Beer and Wine Festival: Sample over 200 beers and wines from around the world at this popular festival held in June. There’s also live music, food trucks, and games.
- Beary Merry Christmas: New Bern gets into the holiday spirit early with Beary Merry Christmas, a month-long celebration that includes caroling, tree lighting, and carriage rides.
Where to Stay in New Bern, NC
If you are only spending the day in this city, you don’t need to look for accommodations. But if you’re looking to spend a night or two here, consider booking a stay in one of these places.
- Bridgepointe Hotel and Marina – Modest quarters in a riverfront hotel with a marina and an outdoor pool, as well as a sundeck. Average Price: $79 per night.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New Bern Riverfront – Upscale rooms with free WiFi, plus an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and a seasonal deck bar. Average Price: $130 per night.
- Aerie Bed and Breakfast: Old-world B&B in a genteel Victorian house, plus free Wi-Fi, parking, and access to a health club. Average Price: $158
- Hanna House Bed and Breakfast: Victorian B&B with antique furnishings offering gourmet breakfast and wine with a garden. Average Price: $130
Things to do in New Bern
New Bern, nestled in the coastal plains of North Carolina, boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a charming coastal escape, New Bern has something for everyone.
Here are the top things you shouldn’t miss:
Tryon Palace
Step back in time with Tryon Palace, the first governor’s palace built in America. Explore the lavishly furnished rooms, stroll through the manicured gardens, and learn about North Carolina’s colonial past.
Make sure to not miss out on the Candlelight tour that happens every year on certain days in December.
Address: 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC
New Bern Historical Society Civil War Battlefield Park
Discover the remnants of earthworks and fortifications from the Battle of New Bern, a pivotal Civil War clash. The park also offers scenic trails and interpretive exhibits.
Address: 300 Battlefield Trail, New Bern, NC
New Bern Firemen’s Museum
Explore the history of firefighting in New Bern, from the first chartered fire company to the devastating 1922 fire. This museum is one of the most popular things to do in New Bern and is a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Address: 420 Broad St, New Bern, NC
Union Point Park
Soak up the sunshine and enjoy panoramic views of the Neuse River at Union Point Park. This waterfront park is perfect for picnics, strolls, or boat-watching.
Address: 210 E Front St, New Bern, NC
Crystal Coast Kayak Tours
Paddle through the serene waters of the Neuse River and its tributaries on a guided kayak tour. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles, and diverse birdlife.
Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery
Discover the work of local and regional artists at Carolina Creations. This gallery showcases a diverse range of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and pottery.
Address: 317 A Pollock St, New Bern, NC
Neuse River Trail
Hike or bike along the scenic Neuse River Trail. This paved trail offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding woodlands. Even though the recreation area is 12 miles from New Bern, this trail is still worth exploring!
Take a Ghost Tour with Ghosts of New Bern
New Bern is known for its rich history, which includes some spooky tales. Embark on a ghost tour and hear chilling stories of pirates, hauntings, and the city’s dark past.
Address: 246 Middle St Ste B, New Bern, NC
See a Performance at the New Bern Civic Theatre
Catch a play, musical, or dance performance at the historic New Bern Civic Theatre. This beautifully restored theater offers a variety of entertainment throughout the year.
Address: 414 Pollock St, New Bern, NC
Go Antiquing
New Bern is a treasure trove for antique lovers. Browse the shops on Middle Street or head to the Craven County Flea Market to find unique pieces of furniture, jewelry, and collectibles.
Visit the New Bern Crafts and Antiques as well as Franklin’s.
Visit the Local Bookstore: The Next Chapter Books & Art
Nestled in the downtown area of New Bern, this local bookstore is a cozy place to spend the afternoon picking up books from famous authors and local authors. You may even come across a cat who watches over the store.
Address: 320 S Front St, New Bern, NC
Take a Day Trip to Emerald Isle from New Bern
The charming seaside town of Emerald Isle is just an hour’s drive from New Bern. Relax on the pristine beaches, swim in the turquoise waters, or try your hand at paddleboarding or surfing.
New Bern Day Trip Guide
New Bern has a way of weaving its magic into the fabric of your memory. It whispers stories of pirates and patriots and bursts with the vibrancy of a town that cherishes its past while embracing the future.
This is a place where history comes alive, not just in museums, but in every building.
So, when wanderlust strikes, remember this little haven tucked away on the Neuse River, and know that New Bern will always welcome you back with open arms.
Whether you’re taking a day trip to New Bern or spending a few days in this beautiful city, this guide will help you plan your trip to the fullest.
Find your next getaway below: