New Bern, NC is such an underrated, quaint little town full of history, unique character, waterfront views, and delicious food. I love taking couples here for engagement photos because it is so romantic and has so many backdrops to choose from. 

One of the reasons why I love New Bern so much is because they are always putting cute extra touches on their town. The flowers around the area always compliment the season, their streets are always clean, and they also have a few spots that are perfect for a date night or a mid-day snack. 

Here are my favorite locations around New Bern, NC that we can use for your future engagement photos!

Eden Street 

This is my favorite block in all of New Bern. It has a row of historic homes that are perfect for a classic, southern romance feel and more location options are easily within walking distance. 

It’s so central to everything that this is where I typically meet my couples and also where I recommend parking!

On the corner of Eden and Pollock is a public garden (that has tulips in the spring) and a gazebo, and on the way there, we will pass traditional white picket fences and sprawling front porches. 

Near Eden Street there is also a wisteria vine wall that blooms beautifully in spring and there are always fresh, seasonal flowers planted that give off so much life and color all year round! Like I said, they’re always making sure the decor matches the season. 

George Street

Home to a stunning, historic light blue home and in front of the Tryon Palace, this location is perfect for couples who want an elevated, luxury, Charleston feel. 

I like to pair this location with the fancier outfits during the shoot. It just goes so well with the white spindle and bricked fence outlined by green ivy. This street, and especially that fence and home, have so much character, and I love using it. 

Tryon Palace

Right near George Street is a NC staple, The Tryon Palace. 

The red-brick mansion enclosed by a grand black gate with gold spindles gives a very classy and higher end look. Very “Bridgerton” vibes.

Taking couples deep into the grounds of Tryon Palace is not typical for me, but we totally can if you’d like to rent a time slot in the palace gardens! You’ll have to arrange for a one-time photo permit in advance during their designated professional photography hours – I can always coordinate this for you to make it easy! 

However, there are plenty of free options nearby and around the perimeter of the palace that are just as pretty, and this is central to all the other available locations mentioned thus far. 

Front Street 

Front Street has lovely waterfront views with a pier we can use. This is perfect for my couples that love the coast, and the baby blue railings on the boardwalk and pier lend themselves perfectly to a coastal vision. 

Front Street and the pier are also stunning at sunset. The subtle glow coming through the overhanging branches on the walkway gives all the southern charm and romance feels. 

We will also pass an area with large palm bushes that I love to use since they diffuse the light superbly — you simply cannot pass up the opportunity when you see it and I’m always on the lookout! 

Union Point Park 

This is about a 5 minute drive from Eden Street and another perfect waterfront access. 

Being near the front entrance of New Bern, you are able to get a full view of the bridge and the water. We can even walk out on the floating boating docks here or stay on the waterfront boardwalk! 

Downtown New Bern 

Downtown has a lot to offer as well. I love to stop by the church and get some photos with the Spanish moss since that is what everyone is in search of in a southern, coastal town. There’s a lot of brick walkways, tree lines, and brick buildings that lean into the city look. 

There’s also historic clocks and a stone water fountain that I like to use as well since they are so unique and full of character. 

You can also find colorful homes downtown perfect for the colorful coastal lovers.

The New Bern Marinas

This is full-on coastal vibes with no stops. It’s outside the city center, about a 10-15 minute drive, but if one of my couples loves boats, water sports, fishing, or sailing, then this is a perfect location to capture some of your personal interests in your engagement photos. 

Glensburnie Park 

This is a 10 minute drive from Eden Street, and is absolutely chockfull of Spanish moss. It is also a beautiful green space for my nature-loving couples. 

You Should Make It a Date Night! 

If you’re taking the day off, traveling to New Bern, or simply just spending the day together, you should absolutely take advantage of the delicious restaurants and things to do that New Bern has to offer.

Especially because now that you’re all dressed up for your engagement photos, you’re teed up perfectly for a date night! 

Every now and then, I will use location scouting as an excuse to get Nathan out and about in New Bern with me. We love any excuse for a date night and the chance to do something together!

Here’s a few of our favorite, familiar places:

Morgan’s Tavern and Grill 

Morgan’s has a little bit of everything! I love trying something new every time I go to a restaurant, and I haven’t had a single bad thing on the menu. This is one of Nathan and I’s favorites. 

I definitely recommend calling in advance or just be prepared for a wait; it is well loved by the town of New Bern, and they’ve gotten quite busy after being rated one of NC’s best. 

The Cow Cafe 

This is a perfect mid-day, late-night snack or light dinner. The Cow Cafe has delicious homemade ice cream, subs, and sandwiches. I am a mint chocolate chip girly through and through, but I also love the classic cookies-and-cream staple. 

Nate is a huge ice cream fan, and The Cow Cafe has a banana split with three ice cream scoops, so I usually pick one of the scoops, and he gets the other two haha!

The Chelsea 

This is a little bit pricier of a pick, but it is definitely worth the money. It is a huge dinner, and I absolutely loved the New Orleans pasta and Nate said their steak was incredible. 

The Pepsi Store and Museum 

If you love Pepsi (I’m a Diet Coke girl) or just love history, the Pepsi store is a unique, fun little place to check out! 

For those that don’t know, Pepsi was born right here in New Bern, NC in 1893. 

Union Point Park 

The lawn out in Union Point Park is perfect for splitting a pizza or some take-out. It’s right on the water and they have cornhole boards out there for visitors which is Nate’s favorite!