Shops in New Bern, NC

Retail shops and stores in New Bern, NC offer just about everything you need for an afternoon of shopping but in two very different places. Historical downtown New Bern carries the feeling of an old town that is almost exclusively populated with one-of-a-kind stores that range from jewelry and handmade toys to bridal gowns, ornate furniture, antique shops and art galleries. This distinctive selection of stores and boutiques is scattered throughout New Bern's Historic Downtown and should certainly be included on any souvenir or gift shopper's list. A pleasant stroll along Middle, Pollock, Hancock, Craven and South Front streets brings the satisfaction of great and various stocks, easy chats with store personnel and pretty waterfront views.

Shopping in downtown New Bern is also a great way to find specialty items for everyday use, children’s toys, weddings and unique anniversary gift ideas. Few shopping districts in Eastern North Carolina have so many diverse options in one area. Within just a few blocks, a Saturday afternoon of shopping could include fresh tomatoes, handmade wooden toys, gardening tools, a wedding dress, clothes for boating, flip flops and a one-of-a-kind piece of home décor from one of several antique shops. And if all that shopping makes you feel like you’re gonna drop, re-up your energy at one of two coffee shops, or with an ice cold soda straight out of the tap at the Pepsi Store.

Across town on Hwy 17 the retail stores are much larger and offer the familiarity of big box stores. This expanded shopping center includes several malls populated with stores carrying shoes, clothing, furniture, books, home repair items and much more. Spread out into several clusters, you’ll find Wal-Mart and Lowes Home Improvement in one area, Target, Harris Teeter and several eateries are in another and the Twin Rivers Mall, which offers JC Penny, Belk, TJ Max, Michaels and lots more.

New Bern is large enough to support specialty shops as well. Active residents have two bike shops to choose from and numerous other outfitters with choices for kayaks and related boating accessories. Musicians can also gear up at two separate stores, one downtown that specializes in acoustic and stringed instruments, while the other caters to a wider need among band students and professional musicians requiring PA equipment and amplifiers.

From large department stores in malls with ample parking, to smaller specialty shops, art galleries, interesting antique shops, jewelry stores and boutiques, New Bern, NC has plenty of shopping options for every taste. Highlighted here are a few of the shops along the way and a few others around New Bern. Keep in mind that many shops change their hours seasonally, so visitors should call ahead or check online for days and hours shops are open.