Located near the convergence of the Trent and Neuse Rivers, New Bern is the county seat of Craven County, North Carolina. Founded in 1710 by Swiss settlers it is named after the capital of Switerland. It was the capital of North Carolina until 1790. In 1862, New Bern was captured and occupied by the Union forces under the command of General Ambrose Burnsides
Pepsi-Cola was developed by a New Bern pharmacist named Caleb Bradham. As a pharmacist, he had a soda fountain that was a gathering place for the local inhabitants. He developed a drink that the locals called Brad’s drink. The popularity of this drink caused him to think that he could market his invention to compete against the other fountain drinks that might include strong narcotics. By 1902 he incorporated and began the process of creating a business that has gained world wide fame.
New Bern and Craven County offer a variety of cultural, educational and historical attractions for everyone. The New Bern Academy, Tryon Palace, Firemen's Museum, Havelock Tourist and Event Center, Historic Trolley Tour, Birthplace of Pepsi, and the Attmore-Oliver House are available for visitors throughout the year. The USMC Aviation Exhibit is located in the Havelock Tourist and Event Center.
New Bern’s location alongside rivers and near the ocean makes it a great place to visit if you like the outdoors. Golf, sailing, fishing and hiking are enjoyed throughout the year. Take the time to explore Craven County when you make your stop in New Bern and you will be back to enjoy everything that New Bern and its neighboring towns have to offer.