Craven County

Craven County Overview

Craven County is a cornerstone of the North Carolina coast, blending centuries of political history with the natural beauty of the Inner Banks. Formed in 1705 in the Coastal Plain region, it stands as one of the state’s oldest and most culturally significant areas.

Craven County didn't start with its current name. Its history is a timeline of colonial transitions. It was first established as the Archdale Precinct of Bath County. In 1712, the name was changed to Craven County to honor William, Lord Craven, one of the Lords Proprietors of Carolina. The county seat, now known as New Bern, was originally called Chattawka. It was officially renamed New Bern in 1712 by its Swiss founder, Baron Christopher de Graffenried, who modeled it after his home city of Bern.

Craven County serves as both a historical museum and a modern economic engine for the region. In 1898, pharmacist Caleb Bradham created "Brad’s Drink" in downtown New Bern. Today, the Birthplace of Pepsi remains a major tourist draw, marking where one of the world's most recognizable brands began.

As the site of North Carolina’s first colonial capital, Tryon Palace is a large historical complex. It served as the residence of the Royal Governor and the first state capitol, offering a window into the 18th-century political landscape.

Located in Havelock, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is a vital Marine Corps installation. It is a major driver of the local economy and home to many service members and their families.

With nearly 9% of the county covered by water, the local culture is heavily influenced by the rivers. Whether it's the sailing culture in New Bern or the swampy ecosystems of the Croatan National Forest, the environment is the county’s true defining feature.

Population

104,450

Population Density

142.55/sq mi

Median Age

Household Income

$65,873

New Bern

Havelock

Points of Interest

Things to Do

The Birthplace of Pepsi Cola

256 Middle St., New Bern, North Carolina 28560

"In 1898, in our charming town of New Bern, NC, a local pharmacist named Caleb Bradham invented one of the most iconic beverages in the U.S. when an unfortunate family crisis forced Bradham to put his medical dreams on hold and return home. Once back, he spent some time teaching before opening a drugstore on the corner of Middle and Pollock Streets in downtown New Bern. Little did he know, that same shop would become the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola." -Visit New Bern-

Tryon Palace

529 South Front St., New Bern, North Carolina 28562

"Tryon Palace, originally built in the late 18th century, served as the first permanent seat of government for North Carolina and the residence of the royal governor. Today, this stunning Georgian structure has been meticulously restored, inviting visitors to explore its lavishly furnished interiors, beautifully landscaped gardens, surrounding historic homes, and engaging living history exhibits. Adjacent to the palace, the North Carolina History Center provides a dynamic, modern experience with state-of-the-art exhibits, hands-on activities, and multimedia displays that delve into the stories of North Carolina’s people, environment, and culture. Together, these destinations offer an unforgettable journey through history with endless opportunities to learn, laugh, and fall in love with America’s history." -Visit New Bern-

White's Farm

5200 US 17 N, Vanceboro, North Carolina 28586

"Providing fresh fruit, veggies, and amazing flowers for the surrounding New Bern, NC. Been in business since 1986. Produce including: Strawberries, maters, cukes, squash, watermelons, loupes and many more!" -White's Farm-

Cottonwood Farm

1700 Streets Ferry Rd., Vanceboro, North Carolina 28586

"Cottonwood Farm is owned and operated by Matt and Caroline Taylor Jackson. Caroline is a graduate of St. Andrews University with a BA in Business Management with a speciality in Equine Studies.

We are located on 630 acres of quiet, peaceful horseback riding trails in eastern NC between historic New Bern and Greenville, home of the ECU Pirates. Cottonwood Farm offers various diverse equestrian experiences. We have a riding program for all ages and levels and have a full year round calendar." -Cottonwood Farm-

Croatan National Forest

Croatan National Forest, Havelock, North Carolina 28532

"Visitors who want to see the inner workings of a coastal forest can get an unmatched experience at the Brice’s Creek Saltwater Trail in Croatan National Forest, the only true coastal national forest in the Eastern US. One of many North Carolina scenic coastal trails, Brice’s Creek is the nation’s only saltwater-based trail through a national forest. The saltwater trail is close to 100 miles long, starts near New Bern and travels nearly around the entire national forest, allowing for excellent viewing of its wildlife and plant life, including the indigenous Venus flytrap and pitcher plant." -Visit NC-

Havelock Aviation Exhibit

201 Tourist Center Dr, Havelock, North Carolina 28532

"The Eastern Carolina Aviation Heritage Foundation offers an opportunity to experience the heritage, culture, and sense of community and patriotism that grows from shared experiences that bond people of different backgrounds and histories. Interactive experiences and immersive environments of aircraft, aircraft-related equipment, and the irreplaceable human elements that make possible air support for the ground warrior showcase the lessons of the past and make Marine aviation history come alive." -Eastern Carolina Aviation Heritage Foundation-

Things to Eat

The Chelsea

335 Middle St., New Bern, North Carolina

"The Chelsea, located in historic downtown New Bern, NC, offers a welcoming atmosphere with a blend of modern cuisine and historic charm. Enjoy a diverse menu featuring fresh, local ingredients, including seafood, steaks, pastas, and salads. Known for its friendly service and inviting ambiance, The Chelsea is perfect for casual dining, romantic dinners, and special events. The Chelsea's award-winning catering services offer exceptional menu options at off-site venues (weddings, corporate meetings, military balls, etc.) as well as in the beautiful 110-seat upstairs banquet room." -The Chelsea -

The Old Pinnix

628 Hancock St., New Bern, North Carolina 28560

"Located in the heart of New Bern, The Old Pinnix blends the charming history of a former pharmacy with the vibe of a contemporary bar. We, two pairs of friends, brought this place to life to offer unique cocktail experiences and delicious toast variations. Our aim is to create an atmosphere where every guest feels at home – a place for enjoyment, relaxation, and socializing. The Old Pinnix stands for creativity, quality, and an unforgettable atmosphere." -The Old Pinnix-

Roots Asian Restaurant

1503 S Glenburnie Rd Suit A and B, New Bern, North Carolina 28562

"Roots serves different dishes that the family grew up eating, like hainanese chicken and rice, curry and Thai pho. 'We’re taking the roots from a lot of different countries in Southeast Asia and Asia in general and then we’re incorporating that into something that’s different but also something that everyone knows.'" -New Bern Sun Journal-

Lucy's Boyz

10798 Old US Hwy 70 W, Cove City, North Carolina 28523

"Very authentic southern cooking at great price. Owner was very friendly and asked how we liked the food. Great food and right amount. We tried the flounder and turkey BBQ, collards and mac & cheese. We will be going back soon to try other items, not because we didn't like what we got but everything looked good. Great Place!" -Yelp-

La Casa Del Patron

109 U.S. Hwy 70 W, Havelock, North Carolina 28532

"Our family was born in Guanajuato Mexico and migrated to the US in 2001. Ever since then, our goal has been to showcase not only our family recipes, but also the hard work and dedication that goes into each of them. We would like to introduce delicious, family traditional, authentic Mexican recipes; we bring happiness and joy through our food and extraordinary customer service offering an enjoyable experience for every guest, every time. " -El Patron Havelock-

Villa Inca Peru

407 W Main St, Havelock, NC 28532

"Nice lil Peruvian spot. You order at the outdoor food truck area and they have indoor seating in a clean spacious building. My partner ordered lomo saltado and I got a 1/4 chicken with yuca fries. The yuca fries were DELICIOUS. The lomo saltado was tasty, and the chicken was pretty good. It was tender and better with their light green sauce." -Yelp-