Travel & Vacation Guide, North Carolina

By Matthew C. Keegan

When traveling through the South, certain destinations such as Charleston and Savannah have strong appeal to many as they are rich in history and warmth. In North Carolina, New Bern has a similar appeal and it is just now being “discovered” by visitors as a terrific destination in itself. See why this birthplace of North Carolina holds such a strong interest for visitors.

In 1710, New Bern was settled by German and Swiss adventurers from Bern, Switzerland. During colonial times, the city acted as the first capitol for the North Carolina colony. Thus, much of what is of strong historical significance for the city can be found within three districts dotting New Bern. Indeed, over 150 sites are listed with the National Register of Historic Places including many homes, stores, and churches.

Chief among the historical sites are:

1. The Issac Taylor House, built in 1792.

2. The Old City Hall, constructed in 1816.

3. Union Point, the location selected by the settlers and purchased from Carolina natives in 1710 for the government house.

4. The Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens, considered by many to be the loveliest government building ever built. It was occupied by the first royal governor of the colony, William Tryon.

5. The Attmore-Oliver House, built in 1790. It now houses the New Bern Historical Society.

In addition, New Bern has other claims to fame including:

1. The birthplace of Pepsi. Atlanta has Coca-Cola, but New Bern gave birth to Pepsi. Caleb Bradham, a pharmacist, created the soft drink for medicinal as well as taste purposes. You can visit the store — which only opened in 1998 — and sample some of Bradham’s speciality.

2. Croatan National Forest. Civil war buffs will enjoy stopping by here as “the forest” was an important battlefield during the War Between the States.

3. USMC Aviation Exhibit. Just outside of New Bern, in Havelock, is the Marine aviation exhibit. Artifacts, photographs, scaled models, and restored aircraft are chief amongst the attractions found at the exhibit.

Visitors to New Bern will find ample and varied lodging and eating establishments in the city. Due to its proximity to the ocean, fresh seafood is in abundance and is a favorite for many. Day trips up and down the coast or inland to the present capitol, Raleigh, are well within reach. Like Savannah and Charleston, the city exudes Southern charm at a lower cost and with less crowds. Truly, New Bern is history at its finest and available to you at a price you will find affordable.

(c)2005; Matthew C. Keegan

The days are clear and sunny, the nights cool and crisp, the brilliant changing of leaves from verdant greens to brilliant reds, oranges, golds and purples of autumn

Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak at 5,964 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, located near Linville, North Carolina. The Cherokee Indians called the mountain “Tanawha”, meaning “a fabulous hawk or eagle”. Early pioneers recognized the profile of the old man with his long beard and strong nose, gazing up to the skies. Grandfather Mountain is a privately owned and operated nature preserve, wildlife sanctuary, and travel attraction.

The famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge suspends you more than a mile above sea level, giving visitors easy access to the breath-taking view of up to 100 miles on a clear day. Trails are carefully mapped and there are plenty of picnic table available with scenic settings. Bears, bear cubs, cougars, otters, deer, and bald eagles can be seen in their natural wildlife habitats. The Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum displays the region’s minerals and gems, including a 165 pound amethyst cluster, songbirds, wildflowers, and much more. Other features are a restaurant, store, souvenir shop, and a theater. Educational and guided tours are available.

Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina’s mountain paradise.

Directions: The entrance to Grandfather Mountain is on the north side of US 221 between the Blue Ridge Parkway and the town of Linville. Google Map