Coastal
VisitNewBern.com; @VisitNewBern
North Carolina’s first capital, New Bern offers a rare blend of history and waterfront beauty. “What sets New Bern apart from other destinations is its scenic waterfront at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers, paired with a highly walkable, historic downtown,” says Katie Harrison, sales and business development executive for Visit New Bern. “Attendees can easily move between venues, hotels, restaurants, and attractions without the need for transportation. It creates a relaxed and connected experience.”
The Riverfront Convention Center boasts 32,000 square feet of event space and accommodates up to 1,350 guests theater style or 1,000 for banquets. Nearby, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New Bern Riverfront has 99 guest rooms and more than 10,700 square feet of event space; its largest space accommodates up to 375 guests theater style. The Tryon Riverfront Inn New Bern, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which opened last year, has 73 guest rooms and a meeting space for up to 30 people. The hotel’s restaurant, Compass Ross, offers a seasonal menu of New American cuisine and nice views of the riverfront. Other options include the new 100-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Bern – Medical Park by IHG and BridgePointe Hotel & Marina, which recently modernized its 115 guest rooms and offers event space for 280 people.
For unique event settings, the North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace accommodates events of up to 300 people, while the Tryon Palace South Lawn fits tented events for 500 people. Another local venue, Flame Catering & Banquet Center, can host up to 300 guests.
Attendees can use their free time to explore four historic districts or visit James City for a close-up look at the history of one of North Carolina’s oldest African American communities. Croatan National Forest has coastal trails and waterways for outdoor teambuilding.
