Tryon Palace

History of Tryon Palace

Royal Governor William Tryon built this stunning Georgian-style structure that served as the first permanent capitol of North Carolina. This historical gem was the site of the first sessions of the general assembly for the state of North Carolina.

The Palace went through an extreme 30-year restoration after it was destroyed in a fire in 1798. The restoration can attest to the strong community and effort to preserve the history of North Carolina. Governor Tryon made a detailed inventory of his possessions which assisted in furnishing the home to reflect the time period.

Governor’s Palace

Journey back in time as a costumed interpreter guides you through the Governor’s Palace on a tour of its grand interior rooms, describing their purpose and how Tryon and his family may have lived while there. You’ll also tour through the Kitchen Office, a time capsule of 1770 conveniences, that was built by Palace architect John Hawks’.

Guided Palace Tours:

• Monday thru Friday: 11:30 AM to 3 PM
• Saturday: 10:30 AM to 3 PM
• Sunday: 12 Noon to 3 PM
• Tours offered every 30 minutes
• 45 minutes long
• Reservations of tour time required

Military Encampment on Palace Grounds

Observe the living history of a soldier’s life during a tour of the 18^th century military encampment. Here, you’ll see living quarters for soldiers and officers, defense weaponry, handmaking tools and demonstrations of those tools.

Daily Activities & Demos at the Encampment:

Monday – Saturday: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm

Historic Homes

Surrounding the Tryon Palace are several historic homes and buildings that are available by guided tour.

The Dixon House is a stunning piece of architecture built in the early 18th century that was home to a local tailor, merchant and politician.
Currently closed.

The Stanly House reflects the life of its prominent owner, whose merchant ships raided British vessels to aid the American cause during the Revolutionary War.
The Stanly House is currently closed, but the lovely garden is open to the public.

The Hay House was built in the 19th century and is modest of the other homes, this building is only for special events.
Currently closed for renovations.

New Bern Academy Museum

The New Bern Academy Museum, located in the heart of New Bern’s historic residential district, was originally a schoolhouse that also served as a hospital during the Civil War. The museum is now home to exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Battle of New Bern and much more.
Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday (12:30pm – 4:30pm)
Address: 508 New Street (three blocks North of the Palace’s main gate)

Weddings and Special Events

The Tryon Palace offers the perfect location to hold the fairy tale wedding that you’ve always dreamed of. With numerous magnificent gardens to choose from, it’s the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding in New Bern, NC. This exceptional event space is able to accommodate the most intimate of weddings or weddings with up to 4,000 guests. With the large variety of spaces and expansive grounds, this venue is also ideal for corporate events.