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Its easy to see why author Nicholas Sparks is inspired by New Bern, North Carolina.
One of the best times to visitNew Bernis during the holiday season.
Bear Plaza the towns iconic bear statues are everywhere is also turned into a winter wonderland for kids.
The town Christmas Tree in New Bern, North Carolina.Credit:JeremyMasonMcGraw.com/Getty Images
Like Sparks, I was enchanted by my first visit to New Bern.
The hotel opened in May 2024, but the building dates back to 1790.
There’s the Christmas flotilla I mentioned, but also Tryon Palace, which is decorated for the holidays.
The New Bern City Hall building illuminated at night with Christmas lights and decorations.Kyle Little/Getty Images
Tour Tryon Palace.
Trudy Saunders/Travel + Leisure
Tryon Palaceis regal year-round, but during the holiday season, it’s purely magical.
Watch the New Bern Christmas parade.
The exterior of Tyron Palace decorated for Christmas.Trudy Saunders/Travel + Leisure
Visit Union Point Park.
North Carolina and outdoor ice skating typically dont go together, but somehow New Bern makes it work.
Like other families, we found the giant Christmas tree a great photo op.
A float in the New Bern town Christmas parade.Trudy Saunders/Travel + Leisure
Watch the Coastal Christmas Flotilla at Union Point Park.
See the Canterbury Road lights.
At the recommendation of several locals, we took the drive to Canterbury Road in Trent Woods.
Skaters going around a Christmas tree at the ice rink in Union Point Park.Trudy Saunders/Travel + Leisure
The colorful light installations topped us off with even more Christmas enchantment.
Join a Nicholas Sparks walking tour.
Download the map for the self-guided tour from theVisit New Bern visitor center website.
The exterior of Bradham’s Pharmacy in New Bern, the birthplace of Pepsi Cola.Kyle Little/Getty Images
Where to Shop
TheNew Bern Farmers Marketis open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The open-air market has a covered roof, so we did some holiday shopping before the Christmas parade.
Note, due to the restaurants popularity, there tends to be a wait, so plan accordingly.
Inside of Morgan’s Tavern all decorated for Christmas.Trudy Saunders/Travel + Leisure
(Try the Ribeye “35” and Molasses Chops.)
On weekends, the restaurant also offers a breakfast buffet, including a build-your-own omelet station.
