By Ara Grok Staff Writer | New Bern, NC | September 24, 2025
In a vibrant display of community spirit and economic optimism, the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce marked the grand opening of a brand-new Hilton-branded hotel in the heart of downtown New Bern this September. The event, held in mid-September, 2025, drew local business leaders, city officials, and tourism enthusiasts to celebrate the arrival of the Tryon Riverfront Inn—a 150-room upscale property poised to elevate the city's hospitality landscape. This milestone not only underscores New Bern's growing appeal as a historic and leisure destination but also highlights the Chamber's pivotal role in fostering partnerships that drive regional growth.
A Warm Welcome to the Riverfront Gem
Nestled along the scenic Trent River at 225 Hancock Street, the Tryon Riverfront Inn New Bern represents a $25 million investment by local developers in partnership with Hilton Worldwide. The hotel, which broke ground in early 2024, officially welcomed its first guests on September 15, 2025, just in time for the fall tourism season. Featuring modern amenities like an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant serving farm-to-table Southern cuisine, the property blends contemporary comfort with nods to New Bern's rich colonial heritage.
The grand opening ceremony kicked off at 4 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting led by Chamber President Kevin Roberts, who praised the project as a "beacon of progress" for Craven County. "This hotel isn't just about beds and ballrooms—it's about creating jobs, attracting visitors, and strengthening the bonds that make New Bern a place where history meets hospitality. The over 200 enthusiastic attendees included visitors from as far away as Gimmelwald Switzerland. Attendees enjoyed live jazz from local musicians, complimentary craft cocktails from the hotel's rooftop bar, and tours of the 5,000-square-foot event space designed for weddings, corporate retreats, and community gatherings.
Local dignitaries, including Mayor Dana Outlaw and representatives from the North Carolina Department of Tourism, echoed the sentiment. Outlaw highlighted how the hotel's location—steps from the New Bern Grand Marina and Tryon Palace—positions it as a gateway for exploring the city's 18th-century charm and outdoor adventures along the Neuse River.
The Chamber's Role in Bringing It to Life
The New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1910 and serving over 700 members today, has long championed initiatives that bolster the local economy. This celebration was no exception, orchestrated through the Chamber's Economic Development Committee, which facilitated connections between Hilton executives and regional investors. The Chamber's efforts included advocacy for zoning approvals and workforce training programs that placed 75 new hires from local vocational schools into roles ranging from front-desk service to culinary arts.
This opening comes on the heels of a robust recovery for New Bern's hospitality sector, which saw a 15% increase in visitor spending last year, according to Chamber data. The new Hilton is expected to generate an
additional $3 million in annual tax revenue and create 50 full-time jobs, many filled by residents from underserved neighborhoods. It's also a boon for small businesses: the hotel's commitment to sourcing 70% of its supplies locally is projected to inject $1.2 million into area vendors, from craft breweries to linen services.
Eyes on the Future: Boosting Tourism and Beyond
As New Bern continues to shed its post-pandemic slump, the Hilton Garden Inn stands as a symbol of resilience. With room rates starting at $179 per night and packages tied to events like the upcoming Mumfest in October, the hotel is already booking at 85% occupancy for its debut month. Chamber officials are already brainstorming collaborations, such as bundled stays with river cruises and historical tours, to draw more families and eco-tourists to the region.
"This is more than a hotel opening—it's a chapter in New Bern's story of reinvention," Roberts concluded during the event's toast. For visitors and locals alike, the Tryon Riverfront Inn New Bern promises to be a hub of connection, where the warmth of Southern hospitality meets the cool breeze off the river.
For more details on membership opportunities or upcoming Chamber events, visit the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce website at newbernchamber.com. Reservations for the Tryon Riverfront Inn New Bern are now open via Tryon Riverfront Inn New Bern, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Hotel Rooms.
The Tryon Riverfront hotel is a great place to stay for visits to Chemac, Inc. and the surrounding area. Welcome to New Bern, NC!
This article is based on reports from the New Bern Area Chamber of Commerce and local media coverage of the September 20, 2025, grand opening.
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