New Bern, North Carolina, US

New Bern, North Carolina, is a charming riverside city with rich colonial history, scenic waterfront views, and a vibrant arts community. Explore its historic sites, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience Southern hospitality at its best.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

09:52 AM

Population

29,963

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

70-88°F (21-31°C) - Hot and humid; hurricane season begins.

Best Time

Apr-May, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

RDU

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes by car, 134 miles, primarily via US-70 W and I-40 W.

Description

Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers a wide range of airlines and services. Featuring dining, shopping, and lounges, it's accessible via I-40.

New Bern combines historic charm with vibrant culture, offering visitors a unique experience. Stroll through its charming downtown with colonial architecture, quaint shops, and cafes. Visit Tryon Palace, a restored Georgian mansion, and enjoy its beautiful gardens. For nature lovers, New Bern's waterfront offers kayaking, sailing, and fishing opportunities on Neuse and Trent Rivers. Cultural events like the Mumfest add local flavor, while its rich history as North Carolina's first capital and the birthplace of Pepsi adds depth to your visit. Don't miss the local seafood cuisine, a highlight for any traveler.

Top trips icon

New Bern Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of North Carolina's laws, including those related to alcohol consumption and vehicle operation.

Crime Rates

New Bern generally experiences low to moderate crime rates. Property crimes are more common than violent crimes, but the overall crime rate is lower than the national average.

Health Risks

Health risks in New Bern are minimal. The city has access to healthcare facilities, including CarolinaEast Medical Center, which provides comprehensive medical services.

Natural Disasters

New Bern is susceptible to hurricanes and flooding, particularly during the hurricane season from June to November. Residents and visitors should stay informed about weather conditions.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence in New Bern is visible and effective. The New Bern Police Department is proactive in community engagement and crime prevention.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in New Bern is limited but generally safe. The city is served by buses operated by Craven Area Rural Transit System (CARTS).

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel safe in New Bern by taking standard precautions.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in New Bern. The city continues to maintain a stable safety environment.

No data Found...

No data Found...

Top trips icon

New Bern Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

arrow down icon

Average High


Average Low


Humidity


Rainy Days


Sunny Days


Wind Speed


Daylight Hours


Sunrise


Sunset


Pattern

Best season to visit

arrow down icon

Current Conditions ():

Top trips icon

Best Time to Visit New Bern

Summary: The ideal time to visit New Bern is from April to May and September to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor activities.

❄️

January

Cold with temperatures from 34°F to 52°F (1°C to 11°C). A quieter time to visit historic sites indoors.

💘

February

Chilly start to spring; temperatures range from 37°F to 55°F (3°C to 13°C), ideal for offseason visits.

🌱

March

Spring awakens; temperatures between 7°C and 17°C (45°F to 63°F). Flowers begin to bloom.

🌸

April

Best

Pleasant weather with temperatures from 54°F to 72°F (12°C to 22°C), perfect for outdoor activities.

🌷

May

Best

Warm spring days, ranging from 61°F to 81°F (16°C to 27°C). Great for festivals and riverfront walks.

☀️

June

Start of summer with temperatures from 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C). Beach activities begin.

🏖️

July

Hot and humid; expect temperatures from 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C). Perfect for water sports.

🌞

August

Continued summer heat with temperatures between 21°C and 32°C (70°F to 90°F). End of summer events.

🍂

September

Best

Cooler autumn weather; temperatures from 64°F to 84°F (18°C to 29°C). Great for sightseeing.

🍁

October

Best

Mild and pleasant with temperatures from 54°F to 75°F (12°C to 24°C). Fall foliage brightens the scenery.

November

Cooling down, temperatures range from 45°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C). Begin holiday festivities.

🎄

December

Cold, festive season; temperatures from 37°F to 57°F (3°C to 14°C). Enjoy holiday lights and events.

Top trips icon

Seasonal Events in New Bern

October

Mumfest

A vibrant festival with live entertainment, food vendors, and a stunning chrysanthemum display.

Visit New Bern
December

Christmas Flotilla

A festive parade of decorated boats lighting up the Neuse and Trent Rivers.

Visit New Bern
October

Ghostwalk

Historical ghost tours with reenactments and storytelling in downtown New Bern.

New Bern Historical Society
May

Greek Festival

Cultural celebration featuring Greek food, music, and dance.

Saint Paul's Greek Orthodox Church
Top trips icon

Popular Foods in New Bern

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Southern dish featuring succulent shrimp served over creamy grits.

Eastern Carolina Barbecue

Known for vinegar-based sauces and slow-cooked pulled pork.

Pecan Pie

A sweet staple dessert made with locally sourced pecans.

Fried Catfish

A crispy and flavorful dish enjoyed throughout the region.

She-Crab Soup

A creamy soup featuring crab meat, often enhanced with sherry.

Top trips icon

Closest Airports to New Bern

Regional Airport

Top trips icon

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN)

Coastal Carolina Regional Airport serves New Bern with essential services and direct flights to regional hubs. Offers parking and rental car facilities.

Approximately 15 minutes by car, 3.8 miles via Glenburnie Dr.

Book car rentals in advance, enjoy free Wi-Fi, and check the website for any updates on facilities.

EWN Website

International Airport

Top trips icon

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers a wide range of airlines and services. Featuring dining, shopping, and lounges, it's accessible via I-40.

Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes by car, 134 miles, primarily via US-70 W and I-40 W.

Utilize parking options, consider RideRDU services for easy transportation, and ensure to check security wait times.

RDU Website

Top trips icon

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

New Bern, North Carolina, offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions, including the North Carolina History Center and Kid's Cove Playground. Families can also enjoy leisurely activities such as boating on the Neuse River and visiting the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola.

Historical Exploration

As the second oldest town in North Carolina, New Bern is rich in history with attractions like the Tryon Palace, various museums, and historic districts. The city allows visitors to immerse themselves in colonial and Civil War history.

Couples Retreat Icon

Couples Retreat

New Bern provides a charming and tranquil atmosphere for couples, offering romantic activities such as strolling along the riverfront, dining at cozy local restaurants, and staying in charming bed and breakfasts or riverside inns.

Nature Adventure

Surrounded by natural beauty, New Bern is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Croatan National Forest, take guided nature walks, or enjoy fishing and kayaking on the Trent and Neuse Rivers.

Cultural Getaway

New Bern offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene with events at the New Bern Civic Theatre, galleries, and local music festivals. The city hosts numerous art and craft fairs, including ArtWalk, that provide a rich cultural experience.

Top trips icon

Custom Language

Bless your heart

Sarcasm or sympathy

Can indicate either genuine sympathy or gentle sarcasm, context is key.

Y'all

You all

Commonly used to address a group of people, friendly Southern vernacular.

Fixin' to

About to

Indicates a future action, as in preparing to do something shortly.

Hush your mouth

Be quiet

A polite way to ask someone to stop talking, commonly used playfully.

Mash the button

Press a button

Southern way to tell someone to press a button, especially on elevators or phones.

Top trips icon

Popular Sports & Teams in New Bern

New Bern High School Bears Football

The New Bern High School Bears football team is a prominent high school football team in New Bern, known for its competitive spirit and strong performance in local and state championships.

New Bern High School Athletics

New Bern Rugby Football Club

The New Bern Rugby Football Club is a local rugby team that welcomes players of all skill levels, fostering a love for the sport in the community.

New Bern Rugby Football Club

New Bern High School Basketball

The basketball team at New Bern High School is known for its competitive edge and dedication, participating in various regional tournaments.

New Bern High School Athletics

New Bern High School Soccer

The New Bern High School soccer team is an active participant in local leagues, promoting soccer as a key sport in the community.

New Bern High School Athletics

Tryon Palace Croquet Club

The Tryon Palace Croquet Club offers residents a chance to engage in this classic sport, hosting regular matches and events.

Tryon Palace

Top trips icon

Unique customs/traditions

Front Porch Gatherings

A Southern tradition where neighbors socialize on their porches, enjoying leisurely conversations.

Mumfest Celebrations

Celebrating autumn with chrysanthemums and community festivals.

Oyster Roasts

A communal event where locals gather to enjoy freshly roasted oysters.

Boat Parades

Community members decorate and parade boats, celebrating local culture with nautical flair.

Historic Reenactments

Reenactments of historic events bringing New Bern's rich past to life.

Top trips icon

Recommended Activities by Group Type

New Bern Academy Museum

Visit the New Bern Academy Museum

Museum (1-2 hours)

This family-friendly museum offers educational exhibits that entertain both kids and adults.

Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company

Tour the Birthplace of Pepsi

Tour (1-2 hours)

Families can learn the history of Pepsi while enjoying some samples, making it a delightful trip for everyone.

New Bern Farmers Market

Participate in the New Bern Farmers Market

Market (1-2 hours)

Families can explore local produce and crafts, encouraging kids to engage with the community and nature.

Lawson Creek Park

Enjoy a picnic at Lawson Creek Park

Outdoor (1-3 hours)

A perfect spot for family picnics; it has playgrounds and scenic views offering a relaxed atmosphere.

Downtown New Bern

Take a Historic Walking Tour

Tour (2-3 hours)

Explore the historic district together, viewing beautifully preserved buildings and learning about local history.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

Our journey partners

Viator Logo
Google Logo
TripAdvisor Logo
BBB Logo
IATA Logo
Duffel Logo
AWS Logo
footer_linear_gradiant_image

Copyright © 2025 Trip Tap Inc | All Rights Reserved