Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola New Bern
Discover the birthplace of an iconic soda! Explore vintage memorabilia and taste a fresh fountain Pepsi at Caleb Bradham's original pharmacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola New Bern
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the birthplace of an iconic soda! Explore vintage memorabilia and taste a fresh fountain Pepsi at Caleb Bradham's original pharmacy.
"A refreshing blast from the past in a beautiful little town!"
Taste the Original!
Don't miss trying a fountain Pepsi or a float – it's the authentic taste of history! :soda:
Friendly Staff
The staff are incredibly kind and share fascinating stories about Pepsi's origins. :people_hugging:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Original Pharmacy Setting
Inside the historic pharmacy
Step back in time to where it all began. See the original pharmacy setting where Caleb Bradham first concocted Pepsi-Cola.
Vintage Pepsi Memorabilia
Display cases
A nostalgic journey through Pepsi's past with vintage bottles, ads, and branding. A true treat for soda history fans.
Freshly Poured Pepsi
Soda fountain
Taste the original! Enjoy a fountain Pepsi or a classic Pepsi float made with syrup and carbonated water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pepsi's Humble Beginnings
New Bern's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
The original Pepsi Store in New Bern.
Taste the Original!
Don't miss trying a fountain Pepsi or a float – it's the authentic taste of history! :soda:
Friendly Staff
The staff are incredibly kind and share fascinating stories about Pepsi's origins. :people_hugging:
New Bern
Day trip to New Bern from Raleigh
Great Souvenirs
Grab unique Pepsi-themed merchandise at reasonable prices. :gift:
Free Admission
Enjoy this historical gem without any entry fee! :moneywithwings:
Pepsi only???
Tips
from all over the internet
Taste the Original!
Don't miss trying a fountain Pepsi or a float – it's the authentic taste of history! :soda:
Friendly Staff
The staff are incredibly kind and share fascinating stories about Pepsi's origins. :people_hugging:
Great Souvenirs
Grab unique Pepsi-themed merchandise at reasonable prices. :gift:
Free Admission
Enjoy this historical gem without any entry fee! :moneywithwings:
Photo Ops Galore
Perfect spot for photos, especially if you're a big Pepsi fan! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola for its historical charm, friendly staff, and the unique experience of tasting a fountain Pepsi. It's described as a delightful, free attraction that offers a nostalgic trip and a refreshing beverage. Some visitors initially expected a more extensive museum, but found the intimate setting and personal touch to be a significant part of its appeal.
"Had such a lovely visit to this little store! My son is a huge Pepsi fan and showed up rocking his awesome Pepsi socks! The staff noticed his socks right away! The fountain was down when we entered, however they were working hard on it and had it up and running before we left. Staff was unbelievably kind and helpful! Allowed us to go behind the bar and take our picture and even ran outside after us to make sure we got a family picture out front! Great merch too! Loved it!"
Lindz LlamaMama
"Birthplace of Pepsi Cola is a nice small museum, fountain Pepsi, Pepsi floats. My only complaint is I was expecting Pepsi made the old fashioned way with syrup & carbonated water, so I settled for a Pepsi Ice cream float. This place is definitely a must visit when I’m Newbern."
Phillip Petty
"If you’re ever in New Bern, NC, make sure you carve out time to visit the Birthplace of Pepsi – it’s an absolute gem! This little historic spot is full of charm and fascinating stories. You’re immediately welcomed by a warm and friendly staff, who share all sorts of amazing facts about how Pepsi-Cola got its start back in 1898 right here in a pharmacy by Caleb Bradham.
The displays of old Pepsi memorabilia are a nostalgic treat – vintage bottles, old advertisements, and historic branding that show how the drink evolved over the decades. It’s like walking through a time capsule of American pop culture!
It’s a must-stop for any history buff, soda fan, or anyone just looking for something unique and fun to do in the heart of downtown New Bern. The whole experience is free to visit, and it gives you such a fun and personal connection to a brand that’s known all around the world.
Highly recommend stopping by – it’s a refreshing blast from the past in a beautiful little town!"
Anil Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is located in downtown New Bern, NC. It's easily accessible by car and parking is generally available on nearby streets. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from other downtown attractions.
While the historic nature of the building may present some challenges, the staff are known for being accommodating. It's best to call ahead to confirm specific accessibility details.
Operating hours can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media pages before your visit to confirm current opening times.
Absolutely! The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is centrally located in downtown New Bern, making it easy to explore historic sites, shops, and restaurants nearby.
Downtown New Bern is quite walkable. Using a GPS or a local map will help you pinpoint the exact location, which is often near other historic buildings and shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is generally free! It's a wonderful opportunity to experience a piece of history without any cost.
The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is a free attraction, allowing everyone to learn about the history of this iconic beverage.
While there aren't formal tours, the staff are very knowledgeable and happy to share information about Pepsi's history. You can often engage in conversations to learn more.
Keep an eye on their social media or local event listings for any special happenings. The staff are known to be engaging and might offer insights beyond the standard displays.
Take your time to explore the memorabilia, chat with the staff, and definitely try a fountain Pepsi or a float from the soda fountain for an authentic taste.
🎫 🥤 Onsite Experience
You'll find displays of vintage Pepsi memorabilia, learn about its inventor Caleb Bradham, and can enjoy a freshly made fountain Pepsi or an ice cream float. The staff are very friendly and informative.
Yes, you can purchase fountain Pepsi drinks and delicious Pepsi floats. They also offer a selection of Pepsi-themed souvenirs and merchandise.
Absolutely! A Pepsi ice cream float is a popular treat and a must-try for many visitors. It's made with the original syrup and carbonated water.
You can find a variety of Pepsi-branded items, including clothing, mugs, and other collectibles. It's a great place to pick up a unique memento.
Yes, it's a very photogenic spot, especially for Pepsi enthusiasts. The vintage displays and the soda fountain offer great opportunities for memorable pictures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola serves Pepsi, most restaurants in New Bern offer a variety of beverage options, not exclusively Pepsi. You'll find other sodas and drinks available.
The primary focus is on Pepsi drinks and floats. While some visitors mention popcorn, it's not a full-service restaurant. You'll find plenty of dining options in the surrounding downtown area.
Downtown New Bern has a great selection of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining. You can find various cuisines to suit your taste.
North Carolina does have regulations regarding alcohol sales, which can affect happy hour specials. However, many establishments offer drink specials at different times. It's best to check with individual restaurants.
New Bern boasts a vibrant food scene with many local eateries offering delicious Southern cuisine and other specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The vintage memorabilia displays, the iconic Pepsi logo, and the soda fountain area are prime spots for photos. Don't forget to capture the historic pharmacy setting itself!
Yes, photography is generally welcomed inside the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. It's a great place to capture memories of this unique historical site.
There are usually no strict restrictions, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might be disruptive.
Many visitors enjoy taking photos with the vintage Pepsi bottles, old advertisements, and of course, their freshly poured Pepsi or float. Family photos out front are also popular.
Absolutely! It's a unique historical site that offers great photo opportunities, especially for those who appreciate pop culture and brand history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger downtown New Bern exploration. The walkable nature of the area means you can easily combine this visit with a stroll through historic streets or a stop at a local park, making for a well-rounded family outing. Remember to check operating hours before you go to ensure a smooth visit.
🥤 Soda Enthusiasts & History Buffs
The opportunity to taste a fountain Pepsi made with the original syrup is a significant draw. It's a chance to connect with the product on a sensory level and understand its historical appeal. The knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience by sharing anecdotes and historical context, making it a deeply satisfying visit for any soda aficionado or history lover.
📸 Photographers & Social Media Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing shots of the functioning soda fountain, especially if you order a classic Pepsi or a float. The recreated pharmacy interior also offers charming, period-appropriate scenes. It's an ideal spot for creating engaging content that blends history, pop culture, and a touch of retro charm for your social media feeds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Pepsi's Invention
Visitors can explore the recreated pharmacy setting, offering a glimpse into the era when this iconic soda was born. The displays showcase original memorabilia, including vintage bottles, advertisements, and branding that illustrate Pepsi's evolution from a local curiosity to a global phenomenon. The birthplace of pepsi cola new bern is a key destination for understanding the roots of one of the world's most recognizable brands. The free admission makes it an accessible historical experience for everyone.
The birthplace of pepsi cola new bern also highlights the business acumen of Caleb Bradham. He initially marketed his drink as a healthy alternative, claiming it aided digestion. The name 'Pepsi-Cola' was derived from 'pepsin,' an enzyme found in the stomach that aids digestion, and 'cola' referring to the kola nut, a source of caffeine. This blend of scientific aspiration and marketing savvy laid the groundwork for Pepsi's enduring legacy.
Experiencing the Soda Fountain
Travelers rave about the experience of sipping a Pepsi made at its very origin. The staff are known for their friendliness and willingness to share details about the fountain's operation and the ingredients used. This hands-on experience connects visitors directly to the history of the brand, making it a memorable part of their visit.
Beyond just a drink, the soda fountain at the birthplace of pepsi cola new bern serves as a living piece of history. It allows you to appreciate the simple yet ingenious creation of Caleb Bradham and understand why it became so popular. It’s a refreshing way to engage with the past and enjoy a taste of iconic American pop culture.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit