Colonial Governors ruled, legislators debated, patriots gathered and George Washington danced. At Tryon Palace, where British rule once flourished, American independence took root and the state of North Carolina was born. Here you can still experience the adventure of North Carolina’s earliest beginnings and a living history like no other. Guided tours, live re-enactments and conversations with costumed interpreters from centuries past bring history to life in vivid detail at the Governor’s Palace, Gardens and Historic Homes. And, at the new high-tech North Carolina History Center, interactive games and hands-on exhibits delight visitors young and old. Whether you’re exploring one of our riverside gardens or sharpening your skills as a quilter, printer, ship’s captain or blacksmith, there are endless opportunities for making cherished family memories at Tryon Palace.

Attraction featuring antique fire engines including those used in the 1922 fire that destroyed one-third of the city. All equipment was used in New Bern, so the tour includes info about the persons who used the equipment, as well as how it worked. A Children's area offers many hands-on opportunities

The New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park, site of the Battle of New Bern, is comprised of over 30 acres in near pristine condition, unmarked by development or agriculture. The “redans” or fighting positions remain as they were a century and a half ago. You can literally walk in the footsteps of young Confederate and Union soldiers who were here on that fateful day: March 14, 1862. The Gateway Plaza leads to a unique 24 foot diameter color ground map and signage that provides an overview of the battle and a starting point for tours. Around the Visitors Center and along the battlefield trails are arrayed 36 informative and well-designed interpretive panels that tell the Battle of New Bern and the impact of the Civil War in great detail. The Visitors Center Pavilion is handicap accessible; the trails leading to the redans are gravel and mulch. The Park, which is unstaffed, is open dawn to dusk 365 days a year. Guided tours by volunteer Battlefield Guides are available for only $5 per person and can be arranged by calling the New Bern Historical Society at 252.638.8558 (preferably at least 48 hrs in advance if possible). Only 5 miles from historic downtown New Bern, the battlefield is a perfect spot for history buffs, nature lovers, families, and dog walkers.

Carolina Creations Gallery of Fine Art, Design and Contemporary Craft In Historic Downtown New Bern, NC since 1989. We represent local artists as well as artists around the country working in all mediums: painting, hand blown glass, lampworking, metal sculpture, pottery, fine handcrafted jewelry, plus handcrafted gifts and stationary. We carry a large selection of New Bern original art, prints and Celebration Pottery painted by our resident artist, and founder of Carolina Creations, Janet Francoeur. We also provide custom framing, wedding registry and interior design services. We are open 7 days a week and 24 hrs online.

New Bern Civic Theatre is a downtown performing arts venue that presents local concerts, national concerts, and annual seasons of plays, musicals, and youth theatre events. NBCT has called the historic Athens Theatre home since 1980.