New Bern lies at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent rivers, about 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville. The town is the second-oldest colonial town in North Carolina and was the capital of the North Carolina colonial government. Given its picturesque setting and growing political prestige, New Bern quickly became known as “the Athens of the South.” You’ll find the Athens Theater and the Masonic Temple downtown, part of the rich culture of New Bern then, are still very active today.
Due to its proximity to the Neuse and Trent rivers, flooding has become an issue for the City. The town was impacted by Hurricane Florence in September 2018. Elected leaders from New Bern have dedicated considerable energy towards advocating for a more flood resilient North Carolina.
