Sandy Chamberlin
Director
New Bern/Craven County CVB
New Bern, N.C.
What are three of the best ways for attendees to experience the historic heritage of New Bern/Craven County?
Director
New Bern/Craven County CVB
New Bern, N.C.
What are three of the best ways for attendees to experience the historic heritage of New Bern/Craven County?
- Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens: No trip to New Bern would be complete without a visit to North Carolina’s first capitol. History comes alive in the place where governors ruled, patriots gathered and George Washington danced. The elegant Georgian-style mansion served as both home of Royal Governor Williams Tryon and the capitol of the Colony of North Carolina. Restored to its 18th century glory, Tryon Palace is furnished with an impressive collection of antiques and art. There are 13 gardens ranging from English formal gardens to a kitchen garden to wilderness garden areas. The 18-acre site also includes three contrasting homes of exceptional beauty. Tryon Palace offers a variety of tour options for groups. Attendees can also take part in cooking, basket weaving and blacksmithing demonstrations. Special events are often held on the South Lawn. The North Carolina Symphony performs for the public here each June.
- Birthplace of Pepsi: This former pharmacy is where Caleb Bradham invented “Brad’s Drink,” which he later patented as Pepsi-Cola. Bradham’s goal was to create a soft drink that would increase energy and help with digestion. Since opening during Pepsi’s 100th Anniversary Celebration in 1998, groups can purchase a souvenir or relax and enjoy a Pepsi-Cola at the recreated soda fountain.
- New Bern Trolley Tour: Experience the charm of historic downtown New Bern with a 90-minute tour that includes a visit to the New Bern Academy Museum. Professional guides recount the fascinating historical and architectural details of this former royal capital of North Carolina. Group Civil War and African American Heritage tours are available with reservations in advance.