Nestled along the Neuse River, Kinston, North Carolina has been a vital part of the region’s economy and culture since its founding in 1762. Just 30 minutes from Greenville and about an hour and a half from Raleigh, this charming eastern North Carolina town offers a surprising variety of attractions. From its baseball team and vibrant music scene to engaging art galleries, public art installations, and rich historical sites, Kinston makes for a delightful day trip or a memorable stop en route to the North Carolina coast. Here is what to do in Kinston NC on your next trip.
This article was originally published in 2017 and has since been updated and recirculated for 2025.
What to Do in Kinston NC
Grab a Local Brew at Mother Earth Taproom
In the heart of downtown Kinston, Mother Earth Brewing stands as a beacon of sustainability and craft excellence. Established in 2009 by locals Stephen Hill and Trent Mooring, the brewery has revitalized a historic building, transforming it into a LEED® Gold-certified facility. The taproom and adjacent beer garden are powered entirely by a 6-kilowatt solar array, reflecting the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship . Inside, visitors can savor a diverse range of artisanal brews, from the zesty Weeping Willow Wit, infused with orange peel and coriander, to the tropical notes of the Alpenglow Hazy IPA, crafted with Lemondrop, Centennial, and Citra hops. Beyond its flagship offerings, the taproom frequently features limited-release and experimental batches exclusive to on-site patrons. Whether you are a craft beer aficionado or a casual traveler, Mother Earth Brewing offers a refreshing and eco-conscious experience in Kinston.
Mother Earth Brewing is at 127 W North St, Kinston, NC 28501.
Cheer on the Down East Bird Dawgs at Grainger Stadium
Professional baseball has been a cornerstone of Kinston, North Carolina, since 1908, with Grainger Stadium serving as its historic home since 1949. After the departure of the Down East Wood Ducks in 2024, the city embraced a new chapter with the introduction of the Down East Bird Dawgs in 2025. As members of the Frontier League, an MLB Partner League, the Bird Dawgs continue Kinston’s rich baseball tradition. Fans can enjoy games from behind home plate, savor loaded tots and Eastern NC barbecue sandwiches from the concessions, and sip on local Mother Earth brews—all while experiencing the revitalized atmosphere of Grainger Stadium, which underwent significant renovations to welcome the new team. It is a fresh and exciting era for baseball enthusiasts in Kinston. Check out our favorite North Carolina baseball stadiums here.
Grainger Stadium is at 400 E Grainger Ave, Kinston, NC 28501.
Order a Pig in a Puppy at King’s Restaurant
Photo by Thomas Dove for Our State Magazine
King’s Restaurant has been a beloved Kinston institution for over 75 years, and its consistently packed parking lot speaks volumes about its enduring popularity. This cozy, no-frills spot welcomes you with classic red-and-white checkered tablecloths and serves up authentic Eastern North Carolina barbecue alongside some of the best hushpuppies you’ll ever taste. Do not miss their signature “Pig in a Puppy,” a mouthwatering BBQ sandwich nestled between two halves of a hushpuppy that is truly one-of-a-kind.
King’s Restaurant is at 405 E New Bern Rd, Kinston, NC 28504.
Support Local Shops & Artists
One of my favorite ways to explore small towns is by visiting their local shops, and Kinston offers a delightful variety. A few years ago, the city launched smART Kinston, an innovative program that invited artists to make downtown their creative home. Today, the vibrant Arts District is home to 14 full-time artists working in studios right where they live — including jewelers, photographers, illustrators, and painters.
While you are in town, be sure to stop by Ironclad Marketplace for unique vintage finds, Leon Thomas Treasures for locally crafted goods, clothing, and accessories, and Just Add Salt for the latest in women’s fashion. For a mix of local produce, fishing gear, and apparel, Neuse Sport Shop is the place to go. For a full list of Kinston’s eclectic shops, check out their official shopping guide here.
Explore Neuseway Nature Center
Photo via The Dyrt
The Neuseway Nature Park offers a diverse array of attractions for visitors of all ages. The park features the Ellis Planetarium, a 52-seat venue with a 24-foot dome that hosts daily shows exploring the wonders of the night sky. Adjacent to the planetarium is the Health & Science Museum, where interactive exhibits, such as a crawl-through model of the human digestive system and a miniature replica of UNC Lenoir Hospital, make learning about health and science engaging for children. The Exchange Nature Center invites guests to interact with local wildlife, including a saltwater touch tank and exhibits housing live snakes, flying squirrels, and bobcats. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers riverside trails, a campground with full hook-up and tent sites, and opportunities for fishing and canoeing. After a day of exploration, we enjoyed a leisurely walk along the river before heading to Mother Earth Taproom for a refreshing beverage.
The Neuseway Nature Park is at 401 W Caswell St, Kinston, NC 28504.
Book a Stay at the O’Neil Hotel
The O’Neil Hotel is a boutique gem located in the heart of downtown Kinston. Housed in the former Farmers and Merchants Bank, the hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort. Each room has its own distinct personality and is thoughtfully appointed with plush linens, spacious layouts, and stylish details. The elegant lobby, featuring an ornate ceiling and classic décor, sets the tone for a memorable stay. Guests can help themselves to Mother Earth beer from a cooler tucked inside the original bank vault and enjoy fresh coffee from the convenient morning station. With its unique character and warm hospitality, The O’Neil offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
The O’Neil Hotel is at 200 N Queen St, Kinston, NC 28501.
Visit The Counter at Chef & the Farmer for a Delicious Meal
Local chef Vivian Howard brings a fresh, casual twist to her celebrated culinary style with The Counter at Chef & the Farmer. This relaxed offshoot features a seasonally rotating menu that highlights the best of local produce, along with creative cocktails and a few beloved staples. Don’t miss the pork samosas or the perfectly crisp fried collards—and be sure to save room for dessert. The cakes alone are worth the visit.
The Counter at Chef & the Farmer is at 120 W Gordon St, Kinston, NC 28501.
Here is an interactive map to help you plan your next trip to Kinston, NC!
A few years ago a post with this title would have made laugh because there wouldn’t have been a thing to put on it. Oh how times have changed! Kinston has come a long way. Next time you’re in town, we’re going to Pizza Villa which is another Kinston classic and so good. My mouth is now watering just thinking about it!
What a great post! I think I saw an article on Kinston in Our State magazine at some time. I bet it featured one of these places at least. I need to go hunt that up. But in the meantime I will drool over your food pictures . I am always looking for the small towns to explore as well . You never know what you are going to find, do you? Thanks for a fun post that makes me really want to plan a road trip.
I love this post! I also went to ECU and spent some time in Kinston but back then it was for Kinston Indians baseball games. I was glad to hear they’re bringing baseball back. I recently had the opportunity to visit Mother Earth brewery and to eat at Chef and the Farmer, and it was fantastic! The brewery was fun and they let us slide down their twisty slide during the tour. We got to taste the spirits, too, which was a pleasant surprise. And of course Chef and the Farmer was delicious. We got really lucky the night we went because we didn’t have reservations and we didn’t have to wait; apparently that’s somewhat rare. I can’t wait to go back!
This looks like an awesome town to visit! A lot of smaller towns have sooo much to offer, don’t they? I know Kentucky is the same way.
Tif
http://www.brightonabudget.com
!!! (<–this is me doing an excited squeal) I've heard so many great things about The Chef & The Farmer! Seriously, my fiance and I have talked about making the trip all the way to Kinston just to try that restaurant. I'm so glad to hear you liked it! Mother Earth brewery has been a solid staple of NC craft beer for years; I had no idea they'd started doing craft spirits though!
Kinston looks fun! I have to admit I had to look on a make to see where it was, lol. I love reading your travel recaps.
xo, Lee
Wine and Couture
We drive thru Kinston a lot, as my parents live down in Swansboro. I had no idea there was this adorable little town though! We must miss that on our drive thru! That hotel looks amazing!
Such a wonderful post! I grew up in Kinston, went away for school and life but now have the pleasure of working for the City in the latter end of my career. Thank you for highlighting some of the gems located in my hometown! We are striving to “reignite the magic” of Kinston’s Downtown, formerly known as the Magic Mile. Make plans to visit our marvelous city, eat some good food and explore Kinston’s rich, rich history. #ktownproud
Thank you so much for this! It always means so much to get a seal of approval from a town’s native! I can’t wait to come back and visit soon!