---
title: "Bear Town Bears Public Art Trail Guide | New Bern NC"
canonical_url: "https://supportnewbern.com/bear-town-bears-public-art-trail-new-bern/"
meta_description: "Explore the walkable Bear Town Bears public art trail in downtown New Bern, NC. Includes route map, Pepsi birthplace stops, and Union Point Park."
---

# The Walkable “Bear Town Bears” Public Art Trail in Downtown New Bern

- **Canonical URL:** https://supportnewbern.com/bear-town-bears-public-art-trail-new-bern/
- **Meta Description:** Explore the walkable Bear Town Bears public art trail in downtown New Bern, NC. Includes route map, Pepsi birthplace stops, and Union Point Park.

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One of the most charming and interactive ways to explore historic downtown New Bern is by following the **Bear Town Bears Public Art Trail**. Scattered throughout the downtown waterfront, boutique shopping districts, and municipal parks, these hand-painted, life-sized fiberglass bear statues celebrate New Bern’s Swiss heritage—named after Bern, Switzerland, where “Bern” means bear.

## The Bear Town Trail Itinerary

Whether you are visiting for an afternoon or enjoying a weekend getaway, put on comfortable walking shoes and follow this curated route through the heart of the city:

- **Start at The Birthplace of Pepsi (Middle Street):** Begin your trek at 256 Middle Street, where Caleb Bradham invented Pepsi-Cola in 1898. Snap a photo with the soda-themed Bear statue right outside!
- **Explore the Boutique Shopping District:** Stroll down Pollock and Middle Streets to discover uniquely themed bears sponsored by local merchants, antique shops, and art galleries.
- **Stop at the New Bern Bear Town Zoo Bear:** A fan favorite for families, showcasing colorful wildlife imagery.
- **Destination — Union Point Park:** Finish your walking tour at the scenic 6-acre riverfront park where the Neuse and Trent Rivers meet, offering panoramic water views and shaded picnic spots.

## Visitor Tips for the Art Walk

The trail is 100% pet-friendly and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle and stop by local cafes along the way. To find more walkable attractions and local merchants, visit the [Historic Downtown New Bern Hub](https://supportnewbern.com/downtown-new-bern-nc/) or explore our [Shop Local Guides](https://supportnewbern.com/shop-local-guides/).