There’s no place like New Bern, and no better way to experience it than walking our tree-lined streets, grabbing a sandwich from a local spot, and popping into shops like ours.
Mitchell Hardware sits right in the heart of downtown, just a few blocks from the riverfront. For more than 100 years, we’ve been part of the fabric of this community, from the porch swings to the town parades, we’ve stocked and supported New Bern through every season.
Whether you’re here for the day or call this town home, we invite you to slow down, stay awhile, and explore the charm of our historic town.
Upcoming Events in New Bern, Nc
From ArtWalks and live music to festivals on the waterfront and family‑friendly outings, there’s always something going on. Check the full calendar for upcoming events that’ll make your visit even more memorable.
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Historic Attractions
Founded in 1710, New Bern is North Carolina’s second-oldest town — and you can feel it in the cobblestone streets, preserved mansions, and historic sites scattered throughout the city. These landmarks invite you to experience history firsthand.
New Bern Academy Museum
Cedar Grove Cemetery
Attmore-Oliver House
Tryon Palace
New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park
the pepsi store
Home to the New Bern Historical Society, this preserved home offers glimpses into 19th-century life and frequent walking tours.
Once a school, now a museum showcasing the region’s Civil War and educational history through rotating exhibits.
A serene walk among moss-draped trees and ornate headstones, this historic cemetery tells stories dating back to the early 1800s.
Sip a cold soda where it all began — inside the downtown pharmacy where Caleb Bradham invented Pepsi-Cola in 1898.
A must-see for any visitor, this reconstructed 18th-century palace offers immersive exhibits, period gardens, and costumed interpreters sharing colonial life.
Walk the trails of the 1862 Battle of New Bern and explore monuments, markers, and nature trails in a peaceful 30-acre park.
Local Shopping
New Bern’s downtown is filled with charming storefronts, creative studios, and specialty shops you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you're treasure-hunting or gift-getting, these spots are worth the stop.
The Accidental Artist
Nautical Wheelers
The Next Chapter Books & Art
Mitchell Hardware
Carolina Creations
Surf, Wind & Fire
Independent bookstore with a cozy vibe, local authors, and a mix of new reads and used gems.
Paint-your-own pottery studio where everyone — kids to adults — can walk out with a handmade keepsake.
A blend of home goods, apparel, and wine tastings. Their coastal charm makes it hard to leave empty-handed.
Outdoor gear meets community hangout. Grab a gift, then grab a local brew at the in-store bar.
A must-see for any visit. Locals and travelers alike love our mix of garden supplies, nostalgic gifts, and old-fashioned service.
Support local artists through this vibrant gallery filled with pottery, jewelry, paintings, and handmade gifts.
Local Eats & Treats
New Bern’s food scene blends Southern roots, fresh seafood, international flavors, and old-fashioned comfort. These beloved spots serve up bites and sips for every kind of craving.
Cow Cafe
Beary The Hatchet
Freshwater Beer Co.
Baker’s Kitchen
Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant
MJ’s Raw Bar & Grille
A craft beer hub with local brews on tap, food trucks, and regular live music.
Perfect for families — ice cream, grilled cheese, and cow-themed whimsy galore.
Try your hand at axe-throwing while snacking on wings, sliders, and other pub bites.
A local favorite for fresh seafood, oysters, and a cozy, come-as-you-are atmosphere.
Dutch potato bread, cinnamon rolls the size of your head, and warm butter syrup — a New Bern classic.
An upscale yet relaxed dining experience with riverfront views and a menu full of elevated Southern fare.
Outdoor Adventures
New Bern’s natural setting offers riverfront views, shaded trails, and easy access to coastal adventures. Whether you’re biking, birdwatching, or boating, these spots invite you outside.
Glenburnie Park
New Bern Trolley Tour
Flythe’s Bike rentals
Union Point Park
Lawson Creek Park
Croatan National Forest
Explore New Bern on two wheels with a bike rental. Rentals are available by the day, and delivery options make it even easier to start your ride.
A peaceful, family-friendly park just minutes from downtown New Bern. It’s right near the river, so you’ll still get those coastal Carolina views.
Get the lay of the land — and the backstory behind it — on a narrated trolley tour of town landmarks.
One of the only coastal forests in the U.S., it’s a haven for hiking, kayaking, and camping just minutes from downtown.
Located at the confluence of two rivers, this scenic park is ideal for picnics, festivals, and front-row sunset views.
A local favorite for fishing, disc golf, boat ramps, and wide open space for the whole family.
VISIT NEW BERN
Located in the heart of historic downtown, Mitchell Hardware is proud to be part of one of North Carolina’s most vibrant small towns. Whether you’re visiting for the waterfront views, exploring Tryon Palace, or simply wandering the brick-lined streets — New Bern is full of history, hospitality, and hometown magic.
What to Do Nearby
Within walking distance of the store, you’ll find:
- Tryon Palace & Gardens
- Bear Plaza & Downtown Murals
- Union Point Park
- Local Coffee Shops & Cafes
- Boutique Shopping