Top reasons to visit New Bern
- Historic Downtown: Stroll through New Bern's charming downtown, filled with friendly locals, quaint shops, and family-friendly attractions.
- Scenic Boardwalk: Enjoy leisurely walks along the beautiful boardwalk, perfect for soaking in the picturesque views of the waterfront.
- Cultural Experiences: Discover a variety of historical museums and cultural sites that highlight the rich heritage of the area.
- Outdoor Activities: Engage in a range of outdoor activities, from golfing to picnicking in inviting parks.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Experience the lively nightlife, ensuring memorable evenings filled with entertainment.
Find great hotels in New Bern
In New Bern, North Carolina, you'll discover a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Many establishments cater to diverse needs, including pet-friendly amenities, business facilities, and a warm welcome for LGBTQIA travellers. Whether you seek a picturesque retreat or a convenient base for exploring, New Bern offers an array of hotels to ensure a memorable stay.
- BridgePointe Hotel & Marina: Located along the scenic waterfront of New Bern, BridgePointe Hotel & Marina offers budget-friendly accommodation with a charming nautical theme. Guests appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and various fitness facilities, ensuring a refreshing start to the day. The hotel’s proximity to the river provides opportunities for relaxation and exploration, while the entertainment options, including premium cable channels, cater to those seeking comfort in their downtime. With a guest rating of 8.6, it is an inviting choice for travellers wishing to enjoy a tranquil stay with splendid views.
- Springhill Suites by Marriott New Bern: This modern 3-star hotel is designed for those seeking a blend of adventure and business amenities. With a guest rating of 9.0, Springhill Suites offers a vibrant atmosphere and a range of recreational activities nearby, such as surfing, hiking, and mountain biking. The spacious suites are equipped with thoughtful amenities to accommodate both relaxation and productivity, ensuring guests feel at home whether they are on a business trip or a leisurely escape. Its strategic location makes it easy to explore the best of New Bern's attractions.
- Candlewood Suites New Bern by IHG: Ideal for pet-friendly stays, Candlewood Suites New Bern provides a comfortable and accommodating environment for guests travelling with furry companions. With a guest rating of 8.8, this budget-friendly option offers essential amenities for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel features a pet policy that allows dogs, making it a convenient choice for pet owners. Guests can enjoy spacious suites, perfect for longer stays, along with facilities that cater to their various needs, ensuring a pleasant experience in New Bern.
Where to stay in New Bern
New Bern, North Carolina, offers a delightful blend of history and scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Explore the charming downtown area, where friendly locals and family-friendly attractions abound. Take a short trip to nearby Emerald Isle for stunning coastal views and relaxation. Whether you're wandering through historic streets or enjoying the picturesque surroundings, New Bern promises a memorable travel experience filled with unique vibes and warm hospitality.
- James City: Nestled within the picturesque surroundings of New Bern, James City is a quaint village offering a delightful blend of outdoor, family, and romantic experiences. The area sees a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, with peak arrivals during the summer months. Adventurous souls can enjoy activities like golfing and exploring the scenic boardwalk, while families can take advantage of nearby lakes and beaches. Local attractions, including a convention centre, provide ample opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature or engage in family-friendly activities, James City is a charming destination to explore.
- Fairfield Harbour: This serene village, also located in the New Bern area, is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and beachside relaxation. Visitor numbers are moderately seasonal, with a peak in summer, making it an ideal getaway during warmer months. Fairfield Harbour is renowned for its golf courses and theatre, ensuring enjoyable days for all types of travellers. With its proximity to beautiful marinas and sandy beaches, you can indulge in water sports or leisurely strolls along the shore. The local convention centre also hosts various events, making Fairfield Harbour a vibrant community to experience.
- New Bern Historic District: Steeped in history, the New Bern Historic District captivates visitors with its charming architecture and rich heritage. This neighbourhood is a hub for outdoor, family, and adventure experiences, attracting consistent visitor interest year-round. The area offers educational activities and engaging local attractions, including a marina and a visitor centre. Strolling through the district, you'll encounter captivating stories of the past while enjoying the pleasant ambience. With its unique blend of history and modern amenities, the New Bern Historic District is a must-visit for anyone looking to delve into the culture of this beautiful region.
Things to do in New Bern
Shopping
In New Bern, explore the charming downtown shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Craven County Shopping Center, located 16km away, featuring a variety of stores that cater to different tastes and budgets.
Recreation
The serene Riverwalk in New Bern offers scenic views along the Neuse and Trent Rivers, perfect for leisurely strolls. For relaxation, visit the Sound of Serenity Spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and holistic therapies that rejuvenate the mind and body amidst a tranquil setting.
Adventure
Explore the scenic Neuse River by kayaking or paddleboarding, where you can appreciate the beautiful waterways and wildlife. For a thrill, try zip-lining at the nearby outdoor adventure park, offering a unique perspective of the lush landscapes surrounding New Bern.
Nightlife
Visit the Brown Pelican on East Front Street for a laid-back atmosphere and local brews. For a lively vibe, check out the Tap Room on Pollock Street, where you can enjoy craft cocktails and live music from regional artists.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for New Bern
To save money during your visit to New Bern, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are at their lowest. Utilise walking, cycling, or car transport for affordable travel options. Take advantage of free activities, such as exploring Northwest Creek Marina. For the best accommodation deals, check Expedia for discounts and combine your hotel and flight bookings for potential savings. Additionally, aim to stay on a Monday to benefit from lower rates, avoiding the pricier Saturday stays.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in New Bern are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in New Bern is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in New Bern is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce costs by combining your hotel reservation in New Bern with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in New Bern
New Bern offers a delightful mix of outdoor and romantic experiences, perfect for scenic getaways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including historical museums, marinas, and cultural sites, catering to those seeking adventure and a taste of local heritage. With its charming atmosphere, New Bern promises enjoyable activities for travellers looking to immerse themselves in its rich culture and natural beauty.
- Tryon Palace: Immerse yourself in the rich history of North Carolina at Tryon Palace, the first permanent state capitol. This stunning Georgian-style mansion features beautifully restored gardens and offers a glimpse into 18th-century life, showcasing exquisite architecture and intriguing exhibitions.
- New Bern Grand Marina: For those seeking adventure, the New Bern Grand Marina offers a picturesque setting for boating and water activities. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with opportunities for fishing, sailing, and soaking up the sun along the waterfront, making it a delightful spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Union Point Park: This urban park is a serene escape in the heart of the city, featuring lush green spaces and scenic views of the Neuse and Trent rivers. Ideal for families, it offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths, perfect for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Best time to go to New Bern
The best time to visit New Bern can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in New Bern falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in New Bern falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.