Kinston

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kinston's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Kinston's History
morning
:

Start your day at the Kinston Historic District, wandering through the charming old streets and viewing unique architecture. Don’t forget to check out the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center for a glimpse into local history.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local cafe before visiting the Kinston Community Council for the Arts. Spend some time exploring local artwork and galleries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a downtown restaurant, savoring southern cuisine. End your night with a stroll along the Neuse River.

day 2
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Neuseway Nature Park, where you can enjoy the trails and watch for wildlife. It’s a great way to connect with nature and unwind.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the beautiful scenery at the park. Afterward, visit the nearby Kinston Science and Nature Center for an educational experience.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy bistro nearby and experience local flavor. Spend your evening relaxing at your accommodation or exploring local shops.

day 3
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local favorite, homestyle restaurant. Try the classic southern breakfast dishes that Kinston is known for.

afternoon
:

Enroll in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional eastern North Carolina cuisine. Have fun creating your meal and enjoying it afterwards.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary experience with a visit to a local brewery. Sample craft beers and unwind in a laid-back atmosphere.

day 4
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Kinston Community Council for the Arts to explore the latest exhibits. Engaging with local artists helps to appreciate the community’s vibrant art scene.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a nearby diner with unique decor and a relaxed ambiance. Afterward, attend a local theater performance to immerse yourself in Kinston's artistic offerings.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant known for showcasing local art and music. Experience live performances while enjoying your meal, rounding out a culturally rich day.

day 5
Sports and Recreation
morning
:

Visit Grainger Stadium to catch a local baseball game in the morning. Feel the excitement of a community event as you support the local team.

afternoon
:

Grab a quick lunch nearby and then head to a local sports complex for some recreational activities, like mini-golf or bowling. It's a fun way to stay active and engaged.

evening
:

Have dinner at a sports-themed restaurant where you can enjoy the game highlights on TV. Wind down your night with some arcade games or trivia at the venue.

day 6
Adventure Day
morning
:

Rent bikes and explore the scenic Neuse River trails in the morning. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views as you pedal along.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a riverside picnic area, taking in the natural sights. Afterward, continue biking or try out kayaking on the Neuse River.

evening
:

Enjoy a barbecue dinner at a local joint famous for its smoked meats. Share stories from your day's adventures while soaking up the local atmosphere.

day 7
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Start your day browsing the shops in downtown Kinston, searching for unique finds and handcrafted goods. Enjoy the local boutique scene and support small businesses.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a trendy cafΓ©, known for farm-to-table options. Plan to visit the local farmer's market to pick up fresh produce and artisan products.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant with eclectic decor and a seasonal menu. Wind down your shopping spree with a visit to an ice cream shop.

day 8
Train History
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kinston Train Depot to learn about the town's railroad history. Explore exhibits detailing the impact of trains in shaping the region.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch nearby before taking a ride on a scenic train route, if available. Enjoy the picturesque views and the charm of traveling by train.

evening
:

Explore dining options near the depot, enjoying a hearty meal. End your night by reflecting on the day's historical adventures.

day 9
Outdoor Exploration
morning
:

Start your morning at the Kinston Greenway, where you can walk or stake a mimic bicycle. The trail offers a peaceful escape into nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the park's picnic spots. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn about local wildlife and plants.

evening
:

Head to a local eatery for a relaxing dinner, enjoying fresh ingredients. Finish your day with a sunset view over the river.

day 10
A Day of Learning
morning
:

Visit the local library to explore a variety of books and attend a morning reading session. It's a great start for book lovers.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby cafe before joining a workshop at the libraryβ€”such as writing or crafting. Engage with locals and hone your skills.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that offers a literary-themed menu. Reflect on your day of learning and community engagement.

Discover Kinston

Read more in our Kinston 2024 Travel Guide.

Kinston Travel Guide