A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
It’s hard to imagine North Carolina without its charming small towns. These communities are filled with history, character, and a healthy dose of North Carolina hospitality. There is no better place to enjoy North Carolina’s heritage and hospitality than at Tryon Palace in the enchanting town of New Bern. Tryon Palace is the state’s first capitol and New Bern is the state’s second-oldest city which makes for an incredible day trip any time of the year. Touring the property is indeed like stepping back in time and experiencing North Carolina’s living history. Beyond the gates of the Palace, you’ll discover countless hidden gems, from outdoor parks to mouthwatering restaurants, shops, and everything in between. Your trip to New Bern will be characterized by fascinating tours and endless discoveries, and it all starts at Tryon Palace.
No trip to New Bern is complete without a visit to Tryon Palace, the first permanent state capitol in North Carolina.
You can start your visit at the North Carolina History Center (located at 529 South Front St., New Bern, NC) for information and to purchase tickets.
Tryon Palace is truly a landmark for all seasons; from the countless blooming tulips of the spring to the Fourth of July fireworks, followed by the highly-anticipated Mums Fest in the fall and Candlelight at the Palace with its decorated Palace tours, Fife and Drums Corps parade and Jonkonnu during the winter holidays, there's something to look forward to each month.
Meandering the vast property, you'll feel immersed in history. It's impossible to overlook the 16-acres of gardens and impeccable landscaping that surround the Palace.
The gardens were established in 1950 and created in the style of 18th-century British formal gardens. Between plants, flowers, and herbs, there always seems to be something blooming on the property.
But first, it was home to British Royal Governors. Royal Governor William Tryon built the Palace in three years and moved into it when it was first completed in 1770. He was followed by Governor Josiah Martin who fled the Palace during the Revolution.
After your visit to Tryon Palace, you'll want to dedicate at least a few hours to explore all that New Bern has to offer. Set on the banks of the Trent River, this small North Carolina town is as exciting as it is picturesque.
Of course, there are tons of natural wonders to discover as well. New Bern is conveniently located 5 miles from Coastal Carolina Regional Airport and 30 miles from the Crystal Coast, where you’ll find some ofthe most beautiful beaches on the East Coast.
