Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens, New Bern

This was the governor's mansion at one time. Really nice original furnishings, guides in costume, interesting place. I think it was around $15. to get in, so $30. for the two of us, which is why we only give it 3 bars on value. I'd still say go, but feel the admission was a bit much compared to Virginia Plantations we went to which were as big and elaborate, but generally priced around 1/2 of this.

We thought that the $15 was an excellent price for all we got to see. Besides the Tryon Palace, we toured the Hay, Dixon, and Stanley homes. We were also able to see a 1 act play called "Box & Cox". We ended up spending almost the entire day there, but a storm came through and we didn't get into the gardens or the New Bern Academy. It is great for history buffs and I learned more about my adopted state's early history. This would not be good for people with small children. We were told from the beginning of the tour that the house was a replica, not the original. If you are there around lunchtime, head up Pollack Street to the Chadwicke Inn. It is small, but the food is delicious.

You wouldn't believe it if I told you this! Tryon Palace that stands right now is not the orginal palace. Interesting huh? Well here is some interesting facts so if your planning on a visit here is what you need to know. Tryon Palace was orginally built in 1770 for Governor Tryon of North Carolina Colony. Suprisily he only lived there for about a couple of years. It was named after him of course. Its basically a governor palace. The orginal burned down in 1798 in a fire. It would take 150 years later for the original palace to get rebuilt. Price 15.00 an adult for the governors pass. It includes everything and its good for two days. There are in all about 8 old colonial homes to visit. Many are original homes. Very Interesting. I was there for two days and I would have to say in all of New Bern this is the best place for your money.

Our trip to Tryon Palace was the kick-off for our entire vacation and as such would set the tone for the rest of our travels. We were not disappointed. The grounds, buildings and re-enactments were very engaging and very informative concerning how life actually was in that era. The tour gides were very nice and very knowledgeable about the houses that they displayed. The only complaint that we had was that the ticket price seemed a bit high; however it is a two-day pass to the park. Just don't expect to come back a couple of days later and be able to use your second day. We decided to stop back by on our way home from vacation and was not allowed to use our second day.

The gardens are the best part of this tour, and the view of the river. They tell you at the end of the tour that the house is actually a REPLICA, not even the real house. Tour is kind of boring.