North Carolina History Center combines an eastern North Carolina Regional History Museum with 18 galleries, interactive family activities, and access to the Tryon Palace historic site.
New Bern Firemen’s Museum, established in 1955, presents New Bern firefighting history through hands-on exhibits, authentic memorabilia, and Fred the fire horse.
Families seeking an educational museum visit
Visitors interested in New Bern's firefighting history
New Bern Academy Museum offers free admission. Its four permanent exhibits cover the Civil War, New Bern architecture, education history, and the 1809 building.
How much time should I allow for the North Carolina History Center and Tryon Palace?
The site recommends allowing at least a half day, since the visit can include museum galleries, the reconstructed Governor’s Palace, gardens, and historic buildings.
What should families look for at a Craven County history museum?
The North Carolina History Center has interactive activities in the Pepsi Family Center, while the New Bern Firemen’s Museum has hands-on firefighting exhibits.
Do groups need to register in advance?
New Bern Academy Museum asks groups of 10 or more to arrange an advance-registered visit. The North Carolina History Center also lists educational, school, youth, motor coach, family reunion, and garden club group visits.