Union Point Park

Imagine a picturesque 6-acre spot where the waters of two rivers—the Neuse and the Trent—meet. Right here, in the historic heart of New Bern, lies Union Point Park. This attraction in the USA is rightfully considered one of the most relaxing and beautiful places in North Carolina.

Surrounded by water on almost all sides, the park offers visitors panoramic views of the river expanses and the elegant silhouettes of downtown. The main feature of the area is the landscaped waterfront, which connects via a graceful bridge to the neighboring Bicentennial Park, forming a single zone for strolls along the shore.

As the heart of community life, the park harmoniously combines natural charm with modern infrastructure, offering guests ideal conditions for outdoor relaxation surrounded by the historic atmosphere of one of the country's oldest cities.

To contact the park administration or find information about events, you can use the following contact details:

At Union Point Park, there is something for everyone. Relaxation seekers can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront promenade or have an outdoor meal—picnic tables with grills are provided. For active travelers, there is a popular fishing pier and two public boat ramps for canoes and kayaks, making the park an ideal starting point for water outings.

The centerpiece of the park is the recently built gazebo with its recognizable green roof and white picket fence. This spot serves as a stage for free concerts by local musicians, wedding ceremonies, and holiday festivals. Families with children will appreciate the modern playground and tables for board games.

In addition, the park often becomes the center for city events: from the finish lines of charity 5K and 10K runs to mass cycling events. If you want to feel the rhythm of the local community, be sure to stop by during one of the public events.

The park is located in the heart of the historic center at 210 E Front St. Due to its central location, it is extremely easy to reach on foot from most parts of downtown—it's just a few minutes' walk (about 2–3 blocks from the main tourist streets).

For those who prefer to drive, convenient parking is available right at the entrance, including special spaces for vehicles with trailers near the boat ramp. If you plan to take a taxi, the ride from any part of the city center will be short and affordable. Local public transportation routes also pass nearby, making Union Point Park accessible to all types of travelers.

Cyclists will appreciate the convenient paths leading to the park. The site fits perfectly into a walking route through the historic district, allowing tourists to take a pleasant break by the water while exploring the city's sights.

The history of this place is a remarkable transformation. In the early years of New Bern, the Neuse River shoreline was strictly industrial: it was home to seafood warehouses and noisy sawmills. However, with the decline of the port by the early 20th century, the waterfronts fell into disrepair, and by the 1920s, the future site of Union Point had turned into a city dump.

A turning point came in 1931 thanks to the initiative of the New Bern Woman’s Club. Club members proposed an ambitious project: to turn the dump into a blooming park. Notably, the project was implemented without direct financial costs from the city, except for the labor provided.

Construction was funded by the federal P.W.A. fund and carried out by workers employed in public works. The women of the club looked after the workers, providing them with food and clothing. Thanks to these joint efforts, a clubhouse, an elegant lily pool, and areas for dancing and picnics appeared on the site of the trash, quickly becoming a hub for the entire community.

For a standard introductory visit to Union Point Park, 1–2 hours is sufficient. This is enough time to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admire the confluence of the rivers, take beautiful photos, and rest for a bit on one of the benches.

However, if you plan to have a full picnic, go fishing, or rent a kayak to explore the waters of the historic district, you should set aside half a day. You should also check the city's event calendar: during festivals or concerts at the gazebo, your stay in the park may significantly increase.

Union Point Park is welcomingly open to visitors every day. You can plan your visit at any convenient time during the week, as the operating schedule remains consistent from Monday to Sunday.

The park is accessible to guests from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The early hours are perfect for catching the sunrise over the river, while the late evening is ideal for contemplating the city lights in a peaceful atmosphere.

A visit to Union Point Park is easily combined with exploring other iconic city sites. The historic district is just steps away, allowing you to experience the region's rich cultural heritage in a single day.

Below are interesting sites located in the immediate vicinity of the park: