Head to the coastal riverfront of New Bern, North Carolina, for an unforgettable historical getaway! Pack your bags for 1903 Queen Anne B&B hospitality, scenic river cruises past celebrity mansions, and 16 acres of English gardens at Tryon Palace. Loosen your belt for mammoth 3/4-pound Reuben sandwiches on the creek today!
Key Takeaways
- Bespoke Historic Hospitality: The Jarvis at 220, a restored 1903 Queen Anne-style home, offers personalized hospitality and handcrafted artisan breakfasts curated by innkeeper Ian.
- Riverfront Water Tours: Cruise The Neuse Boat Tours provides narrated historic cruises along the Neuse and Trent Rivers, offering views of local wildlife, coastal history, and secluded waterfront estates.
- Waterfront Dining Legends: Lawson’s On The Creek sits right at the dock end, offering outdoor river views, craft beverages, and a signature 3/4-pound Reuben sandwich.
- Living Colonial History: Tryon Palace, North Carolina’s original 1770 colonial capital, features costumed interpreters, period-furnished rooms, and 16 acres of English gardens rebuilt from original architectural plans.
- 100% Walkable Waterfront Escapes: The entire weekend itinerary—from B&B stays and boat launches to palace tours and dining—is achievable on foot in downtown New Bern.
New Bern, NC
September, 2026
Saturday morning greeted us back at The Jarvis at 220, our idyllic sanctuary for this three-day escape. Built in 1903, this historic Queen Anne-style home blends original architectural elegance with luxurious, modern hospitality. At the heart of its charm is Ian, the innkeeper whose culinary skills are simply beyond belief. Breakfast wasn’t just a meal; it was an artisan showcase, served up with Ian’s magnetic, larger-than-life warmth.
Fully fueled, we took a short stroll to the waterfront to board Cruise The Neuse Boat Tours. Skimming across the waters where the Neuse and Trent Rivers converge, this scenic tour offers an intimate look at the coast’s rich heritage and pristine ecosystems. The captain narrated fascinating local lore as we cruised past historic landmarks, lush riverbanks, and striking modern waterfront estates—including secluded mansions owned by regional notables and visiting celebrities seeking a quiet Carolina escape.
Stepping off the boat, we walked just a few feet from the end of the dock to Lawson’s On The Creek for lunch. Featuring breezy indoor-outdoor dining and an exceptionally attentive waitstaff, Lawson’s showcases stunning river vistas alongside an incredible craft beverage program. Their standout legend, however, is the mammoth 3/4-pound Reuben sandwich—a delicious, smoky masterpiece layered high with tender corned beef that easily feeds a crowd.
Lawson’s sits adjacent to the grounds of Tryon Palace, North Carolina’s original colonial capital building. First completed in 1770 for Royal Governor William Tryon, the grand palace served as the central hub of colonial government before falling victim to a devastating fire in 1798. Lovingly reconstructed in the 1950s using the original architectural plans, a tour today brings the 18th century alive. Visitors can explore meticulously furnished period rooms, interact with costumed historical interpreters, and wander through 16 acres of breathtaking, classic English gardens.
As our weekend came to a close, we bid a reluctant farewell to New Bern. From our Thursday night showtunes, Friday’s historic trolley ride, and starlit riverfront concerts, to Saturday’s scenic cruise, legendary bites, and colonial history, this coastal gem proved itself to be the ultimate walkable retreat. New Bern doesn’t just offer a getaway—it wraps you in centuries of warmth, flavor, and timeless charm, leaving you planning your return trip before you’ve even left the drive.
New Bern Visitor Center
316 S. Front Street, New Bern, NC 28563 – 800.437.5767
visitnewbern.com
We Tell You Where To Go!
