NEW BERN, N.C. -- Tourists can now make use of a new welcome center when they visit the City of New Bern.
"It's an opportunity for us to provide information to our visitors and tourists who visit New Bern," said New Bern City Manager Mark Stephens. "It's also an opportunity for them to have a public restroom here in downtown while visiting our shops, restaurant and hotels."
The Cub House officially opened during a ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday.
It's a 600 square foot structure with public and handicap accessible parking.
Visitors will have access to water bottle fillers and information kiosks
"We have two information kiosks that are connected to the visit NewBern.com site and they can go in there and search anything about New Bern," said Stephens.
Visitors will also be able to find information about tours and historic sites throughout city.
"Inside they will be able to find brochures on the walking tours that we provide here in New Bern like a historic homes tour, the African American heritage tour," said Stephens. "There are about six different types of tours that they can take."
City officials say the Cub House also benefits local businesses.
"Having public restrooms like this means that restaurants and other retail establishments don't have to necessarily provide and open their doors for non-paying customers," said Dallas Blackiston, First Ward of the New Bern Board of Alderman. "So we think this is very important in that partnership with our downtown businesses"
With Mum Fest taking place, the Cub House opened just in time for the crowds.
"We have thousands of people here in our downtown and we wanted to show case this new location for people and visitors to utilize the facilities and take advantage of the information that's provided," said Stephens.
The Club House will be open at 8 a.m. Monday through Sunday.