New Bern is an architecturally stunning 300-year-old city situated where the Neuse and Trent Rivers converge. Its historical districts are unique and are carefully preserved and maintained by its residents. Strolling through the historic residential and business districts, or enjoying the waterfront at Union Point Park, is routine for so many residents, and the charm never diminishes. Each spring some of the most amazing homes open their doors for the Spring Historic Homes and Gardens Tour.

New Bern has many National Historic Districts, including its vibrant downtown and the nearby downtown residential historic district. Against this canvas, cultural opportunities abound. You can enjoy a performance by the North Carolina Symphony or a play from one of the town’s two theatre companies. You can become a part of it all by joining the blossoming and ever-welcoming arts community, or by selling your wares at the local farmer’s market. New Bern is known for great shopping and dining. New Bern is also less than an hour’s drive from the beach.

For a town with so much history, New Bern is young at heart and has lots going on. New Bern supports active lifestyles with several fine golf courses, many great tennis courts, and plenty of places to swim. Organized cycling rides take place often. New Bern’s rivers and creeks welcome every sort of water activity, including kayaking, sailing, yachting, fishing and simply gazing.

A variety of housing options exist to suit any preference or need. Historic homes, planned golfing communities, condominiums and assisted living communities are waiting to be called home.

New Bern is home to Carolina East Medical Center, an award-winning hospital, that offers the level of care usually found at larger medical centers in much larger cities, while maintaining a small community feel. Coastal Carolina Health Care, P.A. (CCHC) is a multi-specialty group practice with a strong base of primary care providers in Eastern North Carolina.

Excerpts from retirenc.com