You don’t have to take a big trip to have an exciting weekend. Instead, you can enjoy the numerous activities and attractions in Kinston, NC. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re new to the area, you can turn your weekend into a fun-filled event. First, though, you have to build an itinerary. Check out some fun things to do in Kinston this weekend.
Stroll Along the Public Art Trail
Did you know that Kinston is home to the largest public art trail in the state? It’s quite a sight to see, so spend some time on Blount Street and the Riverwalk to view the sculptures and painted murals. Every piece of art is more impressive than the last, so expect to ooh and aah during your walk.
Connect With Nature at Neuseway Nature Park
After a heavy dose of art, it’ll be time to soak up some nature at Neuseway Nature Park and Campground. Walk along the trails to take in the changing leaves, or rent a canoe and hit the water. You can also try to reel in the big one when you’re at the nature park. With 55 acres to explore, you’ll want to set aside ample time to spend here.
Visit the Caswell No. 1 Fire Station Museum
You can also soak up a little history over the weekend by visiting the Caswell No. 1 Fire Station Museum. You’ve probably heard of the devastating fire that ripped through downtown Kinston in 1895. The Caswell No. 1 Fire Station was erected after that fire, and now it stands as the oldest brick building in Kinston. Transformed into a museum, it covers a century of firefighting history. The 1922 LaFrance Pumper is the museum’s crown jewel, but you’ll also love looking through the nozzles, helmets, ladders, photos, and other items.
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See the CSS Neuse in All its Glory
If you still have history on your mind after leaving the museum, stop at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center. Destroyed by fire in 1865, the gunboat remained in the Neuse River for around 100 years. Then recovery efforts took place in the 1960s, and it became an interpretive center in 2015.
This is one of the few ironclad ships left from the Civil War, so it’s worth visiting. In addition, the center has an impressive collection of recovered artifacts that you’ll want to see in person.
But don’t stop your Civil War history tour after exploring the interpretive center. The CSS Neuse II is just a block away from the interpretive center. Built using the gunboat’s original plans, the attention to detail is astounding.
While the CSS Neuse is one of a few remaining ironclad ships from the war, the CSS Neuse II is the only full-sized replica in the world. It’s only open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so plan your trip accordingly.
You won’t have any trouble filling your weekend if you tackle these activities. In fact, there’s so much to do that you might need to set aside a couple of weekends to take it all in.
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