North Carolina has some of the most picturesque towns in the country. From mountain communities to coastal gems, these small towns make up the heart and soul of the Tar Heel State. If you’re looking to explore the best of North Carolina’s small-town life, look no further than the lovely little town of New Bern, North Carolina. Tucked away near the coast, this riverfront town boasts scenery, historic charm, restaurants, and much more. Situated where the Piedmont region gives way to the coast, this corner of North Carolina has it all. Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about planning your visit to this charming and historic town in North Carolina.
Founded in 1710, New Bern has over 300 years of history. In 1770, Tryon Palace was completed and New Bern became the first official capital of North Carolina.
Retire To New Bern
The moment you arrive you won’t help but notice the historical influence of this charming town in North Carolina.
Visit New Bern, North Carolina / Facebook New Bern survived ravaging events such as the Revolutionary War and Civil War, with much of the remaining architecture and buildings still intact. And there are several other points of interest too, such as the site of the first printing press in North Carolina.
If you’re a fan of striking architecture, you might start by exploring the historic districts of New Bern such as Ghent, downtown, and Riverside. You can see some amazing turn-of-the-century homes as well as the quaint, historic downtown.
ChrisBoswell / Getty Images
In fact, this picturesque scenery inspired the famous novelist Nicholas Sparks, who was a resident of New Bern himself.
Visit New Bern, North Carolina / Facebook
Next up on the list is a trip to the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, which is located on Middle Street.
New Bern Step inside and you can get your delicious, carbonated refreshment from a recreated soda fountain while you browse the shop and pick up neat souvenirs. Kids and families will also love the Pepsi Family Center.
As you continue your downtown walking tour, you’ll be enamored by the scenery at every turn.
JillLang / Getty Images Additional points of interest include the Queen Anne style architecture at the Blades House, the enchanting City Hall, and Christ Episcopal, circa 1858.
From a spooky ghost tour to a historic house tour or even a gardens tour, there’s something for everyone to see in this charming and historic town in North Carolina.
Visit New Bern, North Carolina / Facebook
So much exploring is bound to work up an appetite and fortunately, New Bern has no shortage of incredible restaurants.
The Chelsea / Facebook
Stop by the Chelsea for a famous helping of shrimp and grits…you won’t be disappointed!
A M / TripAdvisor
Best of all, this gorgeous town is located right where the Neuse and Trent River meet, and the beach is not too far. Hop on a sailboat, take a boat along the river, or simply just soak up the scenery on a stroll.
Eifel Kreutz / Getty Images
Retire To New Bern
Visit New Bern, North Carolina / Facebook
New Bern survived ravaging events such as the Revolutionary War and Civil War, with much of the remaining architecture and buildings still intact. And there are several other points of interest too, such as the site of the first printing press in North Carolina.
ChrisBoswell / Getty Images
New Bern
Step inside and you can get your delicious, carbonated refreshment from a recreated soda fountain while you browse the shop and pick up neat souvenirs. Kids and families will also love the Pepsi Family Center.
JillLang / Getty Images
Additional points of interest include the Queen Anne style architecture at the Blades House, the enchanting City Hall, and Christ Episcopal, circa 1858.
The Chelsea / Facebook
A M / TripAdvisor
Eifel Kreutz / Getty Images
Curious to take a virtual step inside the town of New Bern? Watch the brief video below, courtesy of Beacon Street Development, and you can catch a glimpse of all there is to explore inside one of the best small towns in North Carolina:
Have you visited this charming and historic town in North Carolina lately? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience there! For related content, be sure to check out some of North Carolina’s most picturesque small towns.
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Address: New Bern, NC, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Charming and Historic Town in North Carolina July 23, 2020 Beth C. What is the most scenic town in North Carolina? After reading about the town of New Bern in the article above, you may very well be convinced that it’s the most scenic town in North Carolina. Of course, New Bern is just one of many scenic places to explore in the Tar Heel State, and there are several more you’ll be inspired to add to the list. Other scenic towns in North Carolina include Kitty Hawk, Asheville, Pinehurst, Boone, Bath, Wilmington, Elizabeth City, Hillsborough, and Southport. Of course, it all depends on what kind of scenery you prefer. North Carolina offers a diverse array of landscapes, from the alluring Smoky Mountains to the peaceful coastlines. Inspired to explore some incredible North Carolina scenery? Check out these 12 North Carolina day trips, one for each month of the year. What are the most unique towns in North Carolina? If you’re looking for unique towns in North Carolina, you’ll find plenty. Whether you’re fascinated by North Carolina’s extensive history or you prefer scoping out some amazing outdoor attractions, you’re bound to find a town that captures your interests. One example of a fascinating outdoor town is Banner Elk. With a population of just over 1,100, this small town in western North Carolina is nothing short of heavenly for outdoor enthusiasts. When you visit, be sure to check out the Banner Elk Museum, Mill Pond, Elk River, Mile-High Swinging Bridge, Wildcat Lake, and, of course, Grandfather Mountain State Park. For accommodations, you can stay at the Banner Elk Inn or the Lodge at River Run. What is the most charming town in North Carolina? If its coastal charm you’re after, it doesn’t get much better than the town of Rodanthe, North Carolina. Just as the town of New Bern inspired The Notebook, the seaside town of Rodanthe inspired Nicholas Sparks’ novel, Nights In Rodanthe. This teeny-tiny town has a population of just over 200, although it welcomes several visitors annually. While you’re there, be sure to check out Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Rodanthe Fishing Pier, Pamlico Sound, and the utterly picturesque Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. You can look forward to staying a night or two at accommodations such as Waves Village Watersport Resort or the Inn on Pamlico Sound. Plus, for delicious food, you can try Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar, StingWray’s Bar & Grill, and Lisa’s Pizzeria. For more charming places in North Carolina, be sure to check out this list of 15 fairytale-like places.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Charming and Historic Town in North Carolina
July 23, 2020
Beth C.
What is the most scenic town in North Carolina? After reading about the town of New Bern in the article above, you may very well be convinced that it’s the most scenic town in North Carolina. Of course, New Bern is just one of many scenic places to explore in the Tar Heel State, and there are several more you’ll be inspired to add to the list. Other scenic towns in North Carolina include Kitty Hawk, Asheville, Pinehurst, Boone, Bath, Wilmington, Elizabeth City, Hillsborough, and Southport. Of course, it all depends on what kind of scenery you prefer. North Carolina offers a diverse array of landscapes, from the alluring Smoky Mountains to the peaceful coastlines. Inspired to explore some incredible North Carolina scenery? Check out these 12 North Carolina day trips, one for each month of the year. What are the most unique towns in North Carolina? If you’re looking for unique towns in North Carolina, you’ll find plenty. Whether you’re fascinated by North Carolina’s extensive history or you prefer scoping out some amazing outdoor attractions, you’re bound to find a town that captures your interests. One example of a fascinating outdoor town is Banner Elk. With a population of just over 1,100, this small town in western North Carolina is nothing short of heavenly for outdoor enthusiasts. When you visit, be sure to check out the Banner Elk Museum, Mill Pond, Elk River, Mile-High Swinging Bridge, Wildcat Lake, and, of course, Grandfather Mountain State Park. For accommodations, you can stay at the Banner Elk Inn or the Lodge at River Run. What is the most charming town in North Carolina? If its coastal charm you’re after, it doesn’t get much better than the town of Rodanthe, North Carolina. Just as the town of New Bern inspired The Notebook, the seaside town of Rodanthe inspired Nicholas Sparks’ novel, Nights In Rodanthe. This teeny-tiny town has a population of just over 200, although it welcomes several visitors annually. While you’re there, be sure to check out Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Rodanthe Fishing Pier, Pamlico Sound, and the utterly picturesque Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. You can look forward to staying a night or two at accommodations such as Waves Village Watersport Resort or the Inn on Pamlico Sound. Plus, for delicious food, you can try Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar, StingWray’s Bar & Grill, and Lisa’s Pizzeria. For more charming places in North Carolina, be sure to check out this list of 15 fairytale-like places.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
After reading about the town of New Bern in the article above, you may very well be convinced that it’s the most scenic town in North Carolina. Of course, New Bern is just one of many scenic places to explore in the Tar Heel State, and there are several more you’ll be inspired to add to the list. Other scenic towns in North Carolina include Kitty Hawk, Asheville, Pinehurst, Boone, Bath, Wilmington, Elizabeth City, Hillsborough, and Southport. Of course, it all depends on what kind of scenery you prefer. North Carolina offers a diverse array of landscapes, from the alluring Smoky Mountains to the peaceful coastlines. Inspired to explore some incredible North Carolina scenery? Check out these 12 North Carolina day trips, one for each month of the year.
What are the most unique towns in North Carolina?
If you’re looking for unique towns in North Carolina, you’ll find plenty. Whether you’re fascinated by North Carolina’s extensive history or you prefer scoping out some amazing outdoor attractions, you’re bound to find a town that captures your interests. One example of a fascinating outdoor town is Banner Elk. With a population of just over 1,100, this small town in western North Carolina is nothing short of heavenly for outdoor enthusiasts. When you visit, be sure to check out the Banner Elk Museum, Mill Pond, Elk River, Mile-High Swinging Bridge, Wildcat Lake, and, of course, Grandfather Mountain State Park. For accommodations, you can stay at the Banner Elk Inn or the Lodge at River Run.
What is the most charming town in North Carolina?
If its coastal charm you’re after, it doesn’t get much better than the town of Rodanthe, North Carolina. Just as the town of New Bern inspired The Notebook, the seaside town of Rodanthe inspired Nicholas Sparks’ novel, Nights In Rodanthe. This teeny-tiny town has a population of just over 200, although it welcomes several visitors annually. While you’re there, be sure to check out Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Rodanthe Fishing Pier, Pamlico Sound, and the utterly picturesque Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. You can look forward to staying a night or two at accommodations such as Waves Village Watersport Resort or the Inn on Pamlico Sound. Plus, for delicious food, you can try Good Winds Seafood & Wine Bar, StingWray’s Bar & Grill, and Lisa’s Pizzeria. For more charming places in North Carolina, be sure to check out this list of 15 fairytale-like places.
