
Why Everyone is Falling for the “Versailles of North Carolina”
NEW BERN, NC — As the morning mist lifts off the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern sheds its winter coat to reveal a technicolor dreamscape. Known as the “Athens of the South,” this historic gem is captivating travelers with a perfect cocktail of colonial elegance and modern refinement.
The star of the show? The 16 acres of lush gardens at Tryon Palace. Thousands of vibrant tulips transform the grounds into a landscape that rivals the great estates of Europe. But it’s not just about the flowers.
From the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola to the sophisticated jazz-age vibes of Baxter’s 1892, New Bern offers a “time travel” experience where 18th-century architecture meets high-end cocktail programs and live music.




