Day Trips from Oriental
exploring New Bern, NC
Visit Our Big Sister Up the River
Shrimp Trawlers that you’d normally see in Oriental made their way up to Union Point Park to protest against new regulations.
We’d like to think of New Bern as our big sister up the river. She’s the nearest major metropolitan area and where you’ll find the closest Starbucks, Chipotle and movie theater. It’s an easy 28.8 miles up Hwy. 55 or about an hours ride if you’d prefer to travel by power boat. Either way, once you arrive, you’ll want to make some time to walk around and explore the rich cultural heritage embedded in every block of the central business district.
Cedar Grove Cemetery
If you’re into photography and history then the Cedar Grove Cemetery is a must see location. There are plenty of notable people buried here and it’s also home to a Confederate memorial. The cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It’s name stems from the beautiful Cedar Trees that dominate the south entrance near the corner of George and Queen Streets. The Spanish Moss that dangles from their branches and the stunning coquina perimeter wall will have you feeling like you’re in the deep South.
View of St Cyprian’s Episcopal Church as seen from the Cedar Grove Cemetery.
Shops in Downtown New Bern
Getting a fresh new style from a premier stylist in downtown New Bern.
When you explore downtown New Bern you won’t find loads of empty buildings, chain retailers or drab professional offices. What you’ll find is a nice mix of local businesses selling quality products ranging from vintage clothes to stand up paddle boards and high end bicycles. Take a step back in time and explore a hardware store that would make your grandfather proud or visit a framing shop with an impressive selection of fine art from local artists hanging on the walls.
Marianne Williams Ruiz, Owner/Partner at Ballantyne Framing & Art, looking over her next piece.
They just don’t make em like they used to. Vintage equipment still pulling its weight at Ballantyne Framing and Art.
It’s true that the King can still be spotted in downtown New Bern outside of Middle Street Antiques.
Food and Drinks in Downtown New Bern
A Southern delicacy, Chicken and Waffles, done right at Baker’s Kitchen.
There’s no shortage of fine places to eat in downtown New Bern. The availability of fresh local seafood means you’re guaranteed to find a meal that was swimming in the water the day before. If your palate fancies some good ole southern fixins then check out the Chicken & Waffles at the Baker’s Kitchen. Looking for modern twists on farm to table cuisine? Then 247 Craven is going to be the winner. Or if you just want a cold beer and a great burger then stop in to the Chelsea.
Local professional road cyclist Joshua Brown knows how to make a mean espresso.
Take it Outside
We still say you’ll find the best roads for cycling in Pamlico County but if it’s a group ride your after check out Atomic Cycles on Tuesday and Thursday evenings during daylight savings hours.
New Bern is surrounded by water and rural roads are just a stones throw away from downtown. If you’re into fishing and paddling sports then you’ll have no problems finding something to do. Bring your bike and catch a group ride with Atomic Cycles on Tuesday and Thursday evenings during daylight savings time. Bring your wallet because its standard operating procedure to rehydrate at the Chelsea with the coldest beer in town! Stand Up Outfitters can point you to one of the several places near downtown to launch a kayak or SUP. Or just visit their location near Lawson Creek Park and launch from there.
Theatrical Performances in the Grecian spirit
If a live performance is more your style be sure to check out the Athens theater.
The Athens theatre opened in 1911 and underwent major renovations in 1981 with additions being added as recently as 2016. What you see from the exterior is indicative of the amazing performances you’ll see inside. Their current production is Harper Lee’s seminal classic, “To Kill a Mockingbird”. Tickets are available now for the July performances.
A Drink or Dessert with a Neuse River View
When the day is over and it’s time to unwind treat yourself to a drink or dessert with a view like this one from the deck at Persimmons Restaurant.
It’s been a full day for you visiting New Bern, NC. Before you make the easy drive back to Oriental why not have a drink or dessert and soak in the view over the Neuse River? Persimmons restaurant is a favorite for visitors and with a view like this one we can understand why! If you’d like to learn more about what to do on a day trip to New Bern check out VisitNewBern.com for a thorough detailing of all the resources available in the area.
