New BernOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
North Carolina's first capital
New Bern, founded in 1710 by Swiss and German colonists, served as North Carolina's first capital and birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, invented here in 1893. What to do in New Bern? Explore this charming historic town where Tryon Palace, the former royal governor's residence, stands alongside Victorian mansions in the historic district and the peaceful banks of the Neuse and Trent rivers. Our outdoor escape game transforms your New Bern discovery into a true urban treasure hunt: a modern scavenger hunt that leads you from colonial gardens to century-old facades, revealing the secrets of a city where American history comes alive at every corner. This unusual activity invites you to uncover the mysteries of colonial heritage with family or friends. Discover below our trail through New Bern's hidden treasures.
Landmarks of New bern
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in New Bern
Among the unusual things to do in New Bern, our outdoor puzzle trail reveals the hidden faces of this colonial city. Explore the secret gardens of Tryon Palace at dusk, decipher inscriptions carved on tombstones in Cedar Grove Cemetery, or follow smugglers' traces along the historic waterfront. The riddles unveil what standard guided tours skip: the story of underground tunnels used during the Civil War, masonic symbols carved on Victorian facades, ghost legends that still haunt certain mansions. The perfect original New Bern outing to discover the authentic soul of this history-laden town.
Things to do in New Bern with kids
What to do with the family in New Bern? Our outdoor escape game is suitable from age 8 and turns the historic downtown walk into a captivating adventure for all generations. Kids love hunting for clues hidden in Tryon Palace gardens, teens get excited about puzzles linked to Pepsi-Cola's invention, while parents discover colonial architecture from a playful angle. The GPS-guided trail avoids traffic and favors the shaded pedestrian areas of the historic district. A New Bern kids' activity that combines learning and fun, perfect for a teen-friendly outing that's out of the ordinary and creates memorable North Carolina experiences.
New Bern for couples
New Bern for couples is savored in its magnolia-lined cobblestone streets, the romantic gardens of Tryon Palace and sunsets over the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers. Our outdoor trail, perfect for a couples outing or romantic getaway, turns a walk for two into a shared investigation through colonial history. The perfect romantic activity: decoding Victorian mansion mysteries together, getting lost in English gardens, then ending with a candlelit dinner at one of downtown's historic restaurants. An original way to discover New Bern off the beaten tourist path, hand in hand.
What to do in New Bern when it rains
What to do in New Bern when it rains? Our outdoor escape game stays playable in light rain: 70% of the trail winds under the covered verandas of historic houses, Tryon Palace galleries and the sheltered passages of the colonial downtown. When cobblestones shine under gentle rain, New Bern reveals its secret passages and hidden courtyards that only locals know. A wet-weather activity that unveils another face of this historic city, when the atmosphere turns mysterious and tourists become scarce on the cobblestone streets.
Where is New Bern, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in New Bern
- Tryon Palace Drive
- 610 Pollock Street
- 320 Pollock Street
- Queen Street
- 511 Broad Street
- 408 Hancock Street
- Neuse-Trent confluence
- Front Street
The history of New Bern
Founding and Colonial Prominence
New Bern was established in October 1710 by Swiss and Palatine German immigrants, led by Baron Christoph von Graffenried. The settlement was named after Bern, Switzerland, von Graffenried's hometown. The initial town plan was configured in a cross shape, though later development has altered this pattern within the street grid. Before European settlement, the Tuscarora Indians inhabited the riverbanks in a village named Chattoka.
New Bern became North Carolina's second-oldest European-settled colonial town, following Bath. It functioned as the capital of the North Carolina colony from 1770 to 1792, with Tryon Palace serving as the governor's residence and capitol building. Following the American Revolution (1775–1783), New Bern developed a cultural life and was referred to as "the Athens of the South."
19th Century and Civil War
During the 19th-century Federal period, New Bern became the largest city in North Carolina, supported by trade in goods and enslaved people associated with plantation agriculture. After Raleigh became the state capital in 1792, New Bern rebuilt its economy by expanding trade routes to the Caribbean and New England. The city's population reached 3,600 by 1815.
The American Civil War affected New Bern significantly. In 1862, Federal (Union) forces captured and occupied the town until the war's conclusion in 1865. This occupation led to nearly 10,000 enslaved Black individuals in the region seeking protection and freedom in Union Army camps, including the Trent River contraband camp established in New Bern. After the war, New Bern recovered. By the 1870s, the lumber industry became the primary economic driver. By 1890, New Bern was the largest lumber center in North Carolina, with up to 16 mills operating. This lumber activity continued until the 1920s, contributing to the construction of many homes that remain today.
What to see in New Bern
- Tryon Palace — This 18th-century Georgian-style mansion was the residence for Royal Governor William Tryon and the first permanent capitol of North Carolina from 1770 to 1792. The palace contains antique furnishings. The grounds include formal gardens and the North Carolina History Center, which has exhibits on 19th-century life.
- Historic Downtown New Bern — Four historic districts are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They contain buildings, residences, stores, and churches from the early 18th century. The area is suitable for walking.
- Cedar Grove Cemetery — The oldest cemetery in New Bern, with graves from 1816. It holds the graves of Confederate soldiers who died in the Battle of New Bern.
- New Bern Firemen's Museum — This museum displays antique fire engines, uniforms, and equipment. It also details the Great Fire of 1922.
- Union Point Park — Located where the Neuse and Trent Rivers meet, this park offers river views, walking paths, and a gazebo. It is a place for watching boats.
- Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola — This site is where Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist, first created "Brad's Drink," later known as Pepsi-Cola, in 1898 at his pharmacy on Middle and Pollock Streets.
When to visit New Bern
New Bern is suitable for visits year-round. The periods from late April to early June and from early September to late October offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds. During these times, temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in spring and are comfortable in autumn. Spring includes events like Arts in April, and fall features Mumfest. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid, with average high temperatures around 88 degrees Fahrenheit, which may be less comfortable for outdoor activities. Winters are mild.
Getting around New Bern
Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) serves New Bern, located a few miles from downtown. It offers regional flights and connections to larger hubs like Charlotte and Atlanta. The most common way to arrive is by car via US-70 or US-17. Downtown New Bern is walkable due to its compact layout. Rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are available. Seasonal trolleys and guided tours also operate.
Parking in downtown New Bern includes free on-street parking for up to 2 hours Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Several free all-day "Bear Lots" are available: the Red Bear Lot on South Craven Street, the Gold Bear Lot near the Farmer's Market, the Black Bear Lot on New and Hancock Streets, and the Brown Bear Lot near Pollock and Fleet Streets. A paid parking lot at Craven and Pollock streets costs $1.00 per hour or $8.00 per day, with free parking on Sundays.
Things you probably do not know about New Bern
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- City Hall (300 Pollock Street)
- What's the story behind the bear motif prominently displayed on New Bern's city flag and throughout the town? New Bern was named after Bern, Switzerland, the hometown of its founder, Christoph von Graffenried. The Swiss city of Bern was named by hunters after the first animal they encountered, a bear, which became the city's symbol. New Bern adopted this bear motif, and the original flag, a gift from Bern, Switzerland in 1896, is displayed in the City Hall courtroom.
- Tryon Palace (610 Pollock Street)
- Beyond its grand appearance, what unique distinction does Tryon Palace hold in North Carolina's history? Completed in 1770, Tryon Palace served not only as the opulent residence for Royal Governor William Tryon but also as North Carolina's first permanent capitol building. It remained the seat of colonial and then state government until 1792.
- Cedar Grove Cemetery (Queen Street)
- What unusual historical event led to this cemetery becoming New Bern's primary burial ground? Cedar Grove Cemetery became the main burying ground for New Bern after devastating yellow fever epidemics in 1798 and 1799, which necessitated a larger burial space than the Christ Church cemetery.
- Intersection of Middle and Pollock Streets
- What significant American beverage has its roots in a pharmacy at this very intersection? In 1898, pharmacist Caleb Bradham created a new soft drink at his pharmacy at the corner of Middle and Pollock Streets. He initially called it "Brad's Drink," which was later renamed Pepsi-Cola.
- New Bern Academy (508 New Street)
- What makes the New Bern Academy building historically significant in the context of North Carolina's education system? Built around 1806, the New Bern Academy is recognized as the oldest chartered school in North Carolina. Today, it operates as a museum focusing on education, architecture, and the Civil War.
Questions about visiting New Bern
What is the best way to get to New Bern?
The most common way to reach New Bern is by car, using US-70 or US-17, which connect to cities like Raleigh, Wilmington, and Jacksonville. For air travelers, Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) is a few miles from downtown and offers regional flights.
How many days should I spend in New Bern?
Most visitors find that 3 days are sufficient to experience New Bern's historic sites, riverfront, and main attractions. A weekend visit allows you to see highlights like Tryon Palace and the Birthplace of Pepsi, while a longer stay provides time for outdoor activities and exploring specialty itineraries.
Is New Bern a walkable city?
Yes, downtown New Bern is walkable. Its compact layout, pedestrian-friendly streets, and riverfront views along the Neuse and Trent Rivers make exploring on foot easy. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance.
What are the best neighborhoods or districts to explore in New Bern?
The Historic Downtown is the primary area for exploration, encompassing four historic districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This area features colonial-era buildings, Victorian mansions, and access to the waterfront.
What are some family-friendly activities in New Bern?
Families can explore Tryon Palace and its gardens, visit the New Bern Firemen's Museum, and walk along the waterfront at Union Point Park. The North Carolina History Center also offers interactive exhibits for children.
What is the average budget for a trip to New Bern?
A trip to New Bern can be tailored to various budgets. Accommodation ranges from bed and breakfasts to full-service hotels. Dining options vary from casual eateries to restaurants. Many historical sites offer tours with admission fees, and there are free activities like exploring the historic streets and parks.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in New Bern cost?
Our outdoor escape game in New Bern costs €12 per team (1 phone). For larger groups on the same trail, budget €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. The price stays the same regardless of your group size, making it a very economical activity to discover New Bern differently.
Is the New Bern escape game suitable for children?
Absolutely! Our New Bern trail is suitable from age 8 and perfectly family-friendly. The puzzles blend colonial history with visual clues that kids love hunting for. Teens particularly enjoy mysteries linked to Pepsi-Cola's invention and local legends. The GPS guides step-by-step through the safe historic district — no risk of getting lost.
How long does the outdoor escape game in New Bern last?
Expect about 2 hours to complete the New Bern trail, depending on your pace and time spent admiring colonial architecture. The game is self-guided: no fixed start time, you can pause to visit Tryon Palace or grab coffee in a historic house turned tea room.
Do I need to book in advance for New Bern?
Online booking isn't mandatory but recommended, especially during New Bern's historic festivals (spring and fall) and summer weekends. You receive your activation code instantly by email — no expiry date, use it whenever you want.
What else to see in New Bern beyond the escape game?
New Bern brims with treasures: Tryon Palace with its reconstructed 18th-century gardens, the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola Store where the famous drink was invented, and the New Bern Firemen's Museum in an 1887 firehouse. The historic district boasts over 150 listed buildings, many perfectly preserved Victorian mansions. Our trail naturally incorporates these iconic sites.
When is the best time to visit New Bern?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are ideal: mild temperatures, magnolias blooming in spring, gorgeous autumn colors, and less humidity than summer. Summer is pleasant early morning or late afternoon. Winter is mild in North Carolina, perfect for enjoying historic interiors and covered verandas during your outdoor trail.
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Greensboro
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Edenton
North Carolina's first colonial capital