New Bern’s Riverfront Convention Center of Craven County contains 30,000 square feet of adaptable space and holds a capacity of 1,350 for receptions and 1,000 for banquets in its largest space, a 12,000-square-foot ballroom. A 3,750-square-foot riverfront veranda accommodates receptions for 400 and banquets for 100, while 8,000 square feet of pre-function/registration space can hold 100 exhibit booths.
Nearby hotels include the 99-room Doubletree by Hilton New Bern, adjacent to the convention center. It features 10,776 square feet of event space, a capacity of 375 in its largest space, and a 4,160-square-foot ballroom. The Courtyard by Marriott New Bern offers just under 1,000 square feet of event space for smaller gatherings and can host 60 people for receptions. The surrounding area has numerous restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfasts, shops, and historic landmarks.
Tryon Palace, the site of colonial North Carolina’s British governor’s palace, is part of a complex of historic homes and museums. Indoor and outdoor special event space is available throughout the historic site, including the LEED-certified waterfront North Carolina History Center, which can host up to 194 guests.
A 25-minute drive south of New Bern, the Havelock Tourist & Event Center contains 7,200 square feet of flexible meeting space, including six versatile function spaces, and can host a capacity of 800. The venue also has a free museum, featuring the Eastern Carolina Aviation Heritage exhibit of the area’s aviation history. The area also is home to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, the world’s largest Marine Corps air station, and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Other exhibits highlight stories and timelines relating to the area’s earliest Indigenous inhabitants through the Civil War and the city’s incorporation in 1959.
