New Bern, North Carolina

is a growing destination for engagements and weddings. We've compiled a list of 16 outstanding venues, each with its own unique charm. Whether you prefer historic elegance or natural beauty, New Bern has something for every couple. Explore these top venues for your special day

couples propose on the beach

Tryon Palace Gardens

These lush and beautifully landscaped gardens at Tryon Palace indeed provide a romantic setting for a proposal, and the best locations to get engaged. Enjoy a meal at Lawson's Café with a view of the Trent River.


Address: 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28562

Contact: Phone: (800) 767-1560

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Fees:

  • Tryon Palace Foundation Members can visit for free for a year.
  • Non-members pay regular admission fees, including state and county taxes.
couples propose on the beach

The Gardens at Isaac Taylor

Address: 228 Craven St, New Bern, NC 28560

Operating Hours:Wednesday to Friday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Phone Number: (252) 649-0477


The Gardens at Isaac Taylor, a premier downtown New Bern wedding venue, have been beautifully restored to reflect their vibrant past. Surrounded by lush natural surroundings and whimsical Edison lighting, this venue offers limitless alfresco event possibilities. Fantastic place to get your engagement photos in New Bern.

couples propose on the beach

The New Bern Grand Marina

  • Address: 101 Craven Street, New Bern, North Carolina 28560, USA
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Phone Number: (252) 638-0318
  • Fees: Each horse-drawn carriage ride costs $65.


If you and your partner love the water, proposing on a private boat or dock at the New Bern Grand Marina is a fantastic idea. The waterfront location sets the stage for your New Bern engagement or proposal photographer.

couples propose on the beach

The Bridge at Lawson Creek Park

  • Address: 1309 Country Club Rd, New Bern, NC 28562
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  • Phone Number: (252) 639-2901


This picturesque wooden bridge at Lawson Creek Park provides beautiful views of the creek and natural surroundings. A perfect spot for heartfelt and romantic places to propose in New Bern.

couples propose on the beach

Bear Plaza

  • Location: Located in the heart of downtown New Bern.
  • Description: Bear Plaza features a bear sculpture and is steeped in historic charm.


Located in the heart of downtown New Bern, Bear Plaza—with its bear sculpture—is a central location steeped in historic charm. It’s a great place to create lasting proposal photos.

couples propose on the beach

Riverside Park

  • Location: Along the Neuse River.
  • Description: Riverside Park offers a quiet and peaceful setting with benches and scenic views.


Along the Neuse River, Riverside Park offers a quiet and peaceful setting. Benches and scenic views make it a lovely spot for a more private engagement.

couples propose on the beach

Neuse Riverwalk

Stroll along this scenic walkway by the Neuse River, enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and picturesque river views.

couples propose on the beach

The Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant

  • Address: 100 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Operating Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
  • Phone Number: (252) 514-0033
  • Fees: No specific fees mentioned, but it's a delightful spot for a romantic meal.
couples propose on the beach

A Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Arrange a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through New Bern's historic streets. The perfect way to create memorable proposal photos in New Bern!

couples propose on the beach

The Maola at Riverside

  • Address: 1400 N Craven St, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Phone Number: (252) 671-5500


The Maola at Riverside is a revitalized industrial-style venue with endless possibilities. The venue combines historic charm with natural beauty, making it perfect for best romantic places to get engaged in New Bern.

couples propose on the beach

Amelia Grove

  • Address: 1700 Brice’s Creek Rd, New Bern, NC 28562
  • Phone Number: (252) 349-9602


Amelia Grove is a picturesque historic venue nestled on the banks of the Trent River. With 15 acres of lovingly maintained grounds, it offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere place to propose in New Bern. The beautiful Jarvis Garden at the back of the property is perfect for ceremonies and receptions.


Additionally, The Gleason Honeymoon Cottage is available for accommodations.

couples propose on the beach

New Bern Riverfront Convention Center

  • Address: 203 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Phone Number: (252) 637-1551
  • Operating Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM


The New Bern Riverfront Convention Center is a beautiful waterfront venue for meetings and special events. Conveniently located in historic downtown New Bern, it offers one of the best locations to propose.

couples propose on the beach

The Carolina Wedding Barn

  • Address: 325 Shoo Fly Rd, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Phone Number: (252) 876-7599


The Carolina Wedding Barn is a vintage-style waterfront wedding barn in New Bern. Modeled after traditional barns and wineries, it offers rustic Southern charm with modern comfort. Enjoy river views, hundred-year-old Carolina pine trees, and exposed beams. Its one of the places to get engaged in New Bern.

couples propose on the beach

Copper Ridge on the Neuse

  • Address: 2706 Old Cherry Point Rd, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Phone Number: (252) 636-3663
  • Operating Hours: Open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM


Copper Ridge on the Neuse is a vintage-style waterfront wedding barn. It combines the charm of historic New Bern with the beauty of the Neuse River. Choose from an array of charming and picturesque settings, from rustic to vintage, shabby chic to southern charm. Their expert catering team and event coordinators ensure every moment is perfect.

couples propose on the beach

The Jarvis at 220

  • Address: 220 Pollock St, New Bern, NC 28560
  • Phone Number: (252) 497-2656

The Jarvis at 220 is a gorgeous historic mansion in downtown New Bern. Enjoy water views of the Neuse River or a beautiful sunset skyline of the city from the Charleston-style front porch. With luxury overnight accommodations for 10 people, a beautiful garden, and a new addition—the Gleason Honeymoon Cottage—it’s an excellent choice for a timeless wedding or event.

couples propose on the beach

Union Point Park

Address: 210 E Front St, New Bern, NC 28560-21461


Union Point Park is a scenic six-acre site at the point of the Neuse and Trent Rivers in historic downtown New Bern. It features a recently constructed gazebo, making it one of the best romantic places to get engaged.

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