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Kinston

Set along the banks of the Neuse River, Kinston, North Carolina is one of the oldest towns in the state. It offers quick access to the coast and to the major ports of Morehead, Wilmington, and Norfolk. The downtown district has many unique eating venues, a great farmers market, boutiques, and novelty stores. Explore its history as you make your way to museums, battleground sites, and through the numerous restored historical commercial and residential buildings that lace the community.

Discover More about Kinston, North Carolina.

CSS Neuse War Interpretive Center

This Center houses the remains of the CSS Neuse and tells the story of the ironclad warship that got stuck on a sandbar on the Neuse River. Learn how the Neuse was recovered and view recovered artifacts. There are also Civil War displays and unique jewelry made out of human hair.

Reconstructed Ironclad Warship

There’s a wow factor when you step inside an ironclad warship. Visit the CSS Neuse II, the only full-sized replica in the world. Take a tour and envision what it was like to live and work on a steam-powered warship that stayed at a constant 130 degrees and housed 200 men.

Kinston Music Park

The Kinston Music Park celebrates the African American musical heritage. Located near the Neuse River, you can stroll through the park of mosaics and sculptures celebrating the once vibrant hub of African American music where musicians including Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong played.

First Battlefield of Kinston Park

Kinston saw its share of battles during the Civil War. Visit Harriet’s Chapel where in 1862, over 2,400 Confederates troops and 12,000 Union troops faced each other. The church is part of The First Battle of Kinston Park which includes walking paths and interpretive signs, earthworks, and markers.