Two Rivers, One Great City

One gorgeous, citrus-filled sky of a day, we drove south from Bethany Beach, Delaware, through Ocean City, Maryland. We intended to drive even farther south, directly to Florida, a trip we typically make in a single day. 

This one time we decided to smell the flowers - and we are so happy we did!

Our overnight in New Bern, North Carolina, a town neither of us had been to, but both had heard of, sounded intriguing with its two rivers and small town feel. We would be hungry when we arrived so I perused the list of available restaurants (note: many close early on weekend evenings) and found one whose kitchen didn't close until 9:45PM.

After we settled in, walked Fin (our new puppy), we changed and drove into the historic district, a mere seven minutes (or 2.5 miles) away toward the marina. With every passing block, were pretty oaks draped in Spanish moss, and large, beautifully and architecturally engaging homes begging to be seen in daylight.  

Baxter's 1892 sits on Pollack Street, across from a pretty little church surrounded by more live oaks and Spanish moss drapery. The clock outside Baxter's stands like a beacon beckoning the thirsty for libations and live music, while the collection of vintage clocks adorns the restaurant's windows offering, to those who might be waiting, something beautiful and interesting to gaze upon.

I could write, and may, a separate blog just about Baxter's 1892, but suffice it to say that a town's viability and vibrance is often measured not only by its innovative entertainment spaces, and quality and presentation of their cuisine, but by the people who frequent these places. New Bern is obviously the place-to-be - the upbeat  youthful vibe resonated throughout the paprika colored walls, from the sophisticated jazz lounge dining and bar downstairs to the cool balcony and private lounges upstairs. 

Inventive cocktails, a sturdy menu of meats, fishes and pasta plates revealed some challenges in ordering only because I wanted to try it all. I settled on the Atlantic cod and my husband enjoyed his Brazilian steak (which is saying a lot for an native Argentinean). I started with a champagne cocktail, Superfluous, with - if memory serves - was a lemon base, with lavender and anise. The adventurous side of me wanted to plunge immediately into the lavender laden contents of the flute, but my palate questioned the blend of licorice with lavender. My server was absolutely correct: the hint of lavender was not overwhelmed by the anise. There was an anise finish that did not interrupt the subtlety of the lavender, and the lemon lingered on the palate. It was most enjoyable.

Live music, a tour of Baxter's private upstairs lounges, and then off to a quick trip to the black velvety-skied marina a few short blocks toward the river. 

The following morning, we managed to join the waiting list for Baker's Kitchen Restaurant where the young, old, singles, and families patiently waited to feed their Sunday morning brunch cravings. With its famous Butter Syrup (yes, you read that right), it's Cinnamon Toast Crunch Waffle and Oreo Waffles (and more varieties), chicken and waffles, omelets and breakfast tacos - among what felt like 100 other items - it was a difficult decision. I mean, you could order the Avocado Toast, but WHY? You're in the south. Do the things the south does best with zero excuses! Frankly, I don't know what my husband ordered because I had "A Roll to Remember": homemade cinnamon bun, grilled, drenched in icing, two eggs and crispy bacon. No, I didn't finish it, but I had fun trying!

While we were in Downtown New Bern, we stopped in shops to support the local economy. Parking on main and side streets was easy even though it was a Sunday - and many storefronts and restaurants were open.

Our favorites included an adventure boutique, complete with a great vibe of casual fun (including dog items of which Fin was a beneficiary) at One World Shoppe, then after breakfast I had to visit Audra Style. I've seen her artwork on Instagram and loved the fresh-squeezed Starburst colors of her artwork and wearable art accessories. The artwork and her designs are even fresher and more fun in-person - but, lucky you, you can purchase online, too. Her sister-in-law was so charming and I ended up bringing a couple of items back home, including a gift for a friend up north. 

NOTE: Who knew that Pepsi-Cola was invented in 1893 by New Bern pharmacist Caleb Bradham? We didn't! Thank you, New Bern. 

New Bern, North Carolina is a perfect inland coastal waterway destination and now a Magnolia Blue favorite. It's adventurous spirit is evident at the marina and in the local shops that support active lifestyles. New Bern sits at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers. Fishing, boating, kayaking, water skiing - if it floats or boats, it's all fair game. 

I also really loved the community "vibe" which is not always self-evident. During breakfast, I scanned the local hospitality visitor's guide and noted how many local community theaters, lively arts, local events, distinctive history and culture abound in this small area. The tenor of the hospitality was cordial, and warm, but not cloying, which imparts a genuineness to its interactions. I found myself in conversations with other shoppers and locals easily. 

Our time in New Bern was too short. In truth, if we were looking to move, again, I'd be seriously considering this small town on two scenic rivers. It's 3.5 to 4 hours straight drive to the mid or northern Outer Banks, or you can take the Cedar Island Ferry which sails to Ocracoke Island in the far southern point of the Outer Banks. One can stay overnight, or catch the ferry to Cape Hatteras and head toward the northern Outer Banks that way.

Magnolia Blue is all about exploring the American coastal south and this trip had many surprises and rewards. If it was even for just a few hours shy of 24, New Bern's southern hospitality and coastal flair left us wanting to explore more. We enjoyed our pet-friendly stay at at The Springhill Suites by Marriott where the room was large, it was a mere few minutes from historic New Bern and the staff was extremely helpful. 

Bear Town Bears

Magnolia Blue was not offered any compensation, nor were any meals, hotel stays or gifts received from any of the establishments mentioned. If you have thoughts on where an upcoming Maggie Blue southern coastal experience might be - give us ideas in the comments and thank you for visiting us on the front porch!

Please visit my Instagram @southernskiesnrisingtides for even more images from our visit to New Bern and follow for more adventures!