3-Day Adventure and Relaxation in New Bern, NC

Day 1: Historic Downtown Tour

New Bern, NC on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Morgan's Tavern & Grill

Enjoy a Southern-style breakfast in a lively atmosphere featuring local favorites like shrimp and grits or classic eggs benedict with coffee. Open from 7:30am on weekdays.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Tryon Palace

Tour the restored 18th-century governor's mansion and experience the lush gardens and museum exhibits that tell the story of New Bern's colonial history. Open 9:00am–5:00pm.
USD16, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant

Dine with river views on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, featuring dishes like crab cakes and NC shrimp. Open from 11:00am.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore the New Bern Riverwalk

Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the scenic waterfront with opportunities for photos and bird watching. Open daily, always free.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola

Discover the small museum celebrating the invention of Pepsi in New Bern in 1898. Open from 11:00am–5:00pm on weekdays.
USD5, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Chelsea

Enjoy an upscale dinner with a menu featuring steak, seafood, and craft cocktails in a stylish venue. Open from 5:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h

Day 2: Nature and Cultural Exploration

New Bern, NC on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee & Crema

Start your day with artisan coffees and fresh baked goods including crepes and pastries. Opens at 7:30am.
USD10, 1h

9:30am

Croatan National Forest Visit

Take a short drive to explore hiking trails, kayaking, and wildlife viewing within this vast coastal forest. Open sunrise to sunset, free access.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Fat Pelican

Casual seaside dining famous for oysters, burgers, and local seafood with a fun atmosphere. Open from 11:30am.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

North Carolina History Center

Explore regional history, natural history exhibits, and the adjacent farmers market if open. Open 9:00am–5:00pm.
USD10, 1.5h

5:00pm

Relaxation at Union Point Park

Spend early evening relaxing at this riverfront park with picnic areas and walking paths. Perfect to wind down your day. Open daily, free.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Osteria

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine including wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas in a cozy setting. Open from 5:00pm.
USD30, 1.5h

Day 3: Waterfront and Leisure

New Bern, NC on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Chelsea Coffee Shop

Casual spot for coffee, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches to fuel your last day. Opens at 7:00am.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Boat Tour of the Neuse River

Enjoy a guided cruise showcasing local wildlife and scenic views of New Bern from the water. Tours run mornings from 9:00am; check schedule for availability.
USD25, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit the New Bern Farmers Market

Browse local produce, crafts, and artisanal foods at this vibrant market open Saturdays from 8:00am to 1:00pm.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Well Coffeehouse

Enjoy light lunch options like sandwiches, salads, and excellent coffee in a community-focused venue. Open 8:00am–5:00pm weekdays.
USD15, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the New Bern Firemen's Museum

Learn about the history of firefighting in New Bern with interesting exhibits and vintage equipment. Open Wednesday through Saturday, 10:00am–4:00pm.
USD5, 1h

4:00pm

Leisure at Twin Rivers Memorial Park

Relax on the grass, play some frisbee, or simply enjoy the waterfront views one last time. Open daily, free admission.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at The Brown Pelican

Savor waterfront dining with a menu featuring fresh seafood and Southern classics to end your trip on a high note. Open till 9:00pm.
USD35, 1.5h