100 Things to Do on the Outer Banks

If you’re new to visiting the Outer Banks, you might wonder what there is to do down here besides laying out and playing at the beach. Well, if that’s what you’re wondering, you’re in luck. Here is a list and brief description of 100 things to do here. There’s something for every taste and budget.

History

If you love history, then you’ll want to check out these great Outer Banks museums and attractions. Some are hands on and suitable for kids while others are more traditional in nature.

 

1.            Roanoke Island Festival Park (Fun N Sun Partner)

Step back in time to 1585 when the first settlers came over from England. Explore a life sized replica of a 16th century sailing vessel, talk to costumed interpreters, discover a Native American ‘village’ and colonial settlement and have a blast in the interactive hands on kids friendly museum.

 

2.            Whalehead Club  Whalehead Club Outer Banks

See how the other half lived in the 1920’s with this restored private home. Belonging to Mr. Knight, a wealthy industrialist, this home turned museum has some of the best examples of the art deco architecture and style. It even has an elevator for luggage.

 

3.            Frisco Native American Museum (Fun N Sun Partner)

This is museum has the distinction of being the largest private collection on Native American artifacts for public display in the country. That being said, it’s still pretty small, but not small on what you’ll see. Get ready to discover more about Native Americans than you ever knew was possible.

 

4.            Beachcombing Museum

Recently opened in their new spot, the Beachcombing museum features the collection of Nellie Myrtle, and her 40+ years of picking up treasures from the beach every day of her life. Its more than a collection of ‘stuff’, it’s a time capsule of history.

 

5.            Island Farm

It’s like Colonial Williamsburg only smaller. And set in the 19th century. This farm features animals like chickens, cows and banker ponies, as well as restored houses, a windmill and an ox cart ride. Costumed interpreters teach about chores back then, such as making soap, doing laundry or collecting eggs, and more. Best of all, it’s a hands on museum, so kids and adults can touch pretty much whatever they want.

 

6.            Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station (Fun N Sun Partner)

“You have to go out, no one said you had to come back,” That was the unofficial motto of the lifesavers; the predecessors to the Coast Guard. If you’d like to learn all about these brave men who protected our waters, then this is the place to go.

 

7.            Maritime Museum

This little gem of a museum is located, or I should say hidden in downtown Manteo. For such a small museum, it really takes you through the history of Outer Banks ships. It also offers classes such as sailing, knot tying and their ever popular but underutilized built a boat-in-a-day class.

 

8.            Wright Memorial  Wright Memorial Outer Banks

This is where flight started. Explore the museum, the history of flight, climb up to the monument and see the commutative boulders that started our love affair with the air.

 

9.            Fort Raleigh

Separate from the Lost Colony, this small museum and historic site offers a history of the colonists as well as the mound where a fort once stood. The best thing about this park is the ranger talk, so be sure not to miss it.

 

10.   The Archives

Now, I’ll admit, this attraction isn’t for everyone. In fact, if you’re not a history lover, you’re going to think it’s downright dull. But if you love both books and history, then there’s no better place than the archives. This state run research facility has all kinds of empherma relating to the Outer Banks from rare books to court cases, to deeds, antique maps in more There’s even a little known book about the hunt for Blackbeard’s treasure.

 

11.   Wild Horse Museum

This museum pays homage to the wild horses. It not only shows their history, but they also have trinkets to buy to help the horse. Everyone’s favorite activity is ‘paint the wooden horse.’ These half life sized flat horses are purchased, painted and displayed. It serves as both a testament to your (and your child’s) creativity, but the proceeds help the wild horses. Occasionally they will also have a real Banker Pony you can pet. This horse was taken from the heard for medical reasons. Even after the horse is better, he cannot be returned.  

 

Lighthouses

The Outer Banks is home to 5 distinct lighthouses spread out all over the islands. So if you’re a lighthouse fan, you’ll want to add these to your bucket list.

 

12.   Bodie Island  Lighthouse on the Outer Banks

Pronounced ‘Body’ (supposedly because that’s where the ‘bodies wash up’) this lighthouse has an attached wooden walkway nature trail. This lighthouse usually rotates the years you can climb it, so be sure to check. However, even when you can’t climb it, the impressive structure and surrounding grounds always makes it worth the trip.

 

13.   Marshes Light

Of all the lighthouses on the list, this one is the only non-original. Built in 2004, this is a replica lighthouse of one that was out in the sound for decades. It’s free to enter and has a great park, playground and all of downtown Manteo at the end of its dock.

 

14.   Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

This lighthouse has the distinction of being the he tallest all concrete lighthouse in the world. It’s also the most recognizable with its black and white candy cane stripes. This lighthouse is usually open for climbing, so be sure to check.

 

15.   Corolla Lighthouse

This was the last lighthouse built before the government decided that lighthouses outlived their usefulness. It’s also the only unpainted light house. The third thing that makes this lighthouse special is that it’s the only one not owned by some branch of government. As such, it keeps different houses. It’s open for climbing.

 

16.   Ocracoke Lighthouse

Standing barely 65 feet tall, this is the smallest lighthouse on the Outer Banks. In fact for an ocean lighthouse, it might be the smallest one anywhere. This lighthouse needs a day trip to get to, but that’s part of the whole ‘lighthouse experience.’  Be sure to bring a camera and snap a picture of a feral ‘ocracat’ a cat rumored be the descendants of Blackbeard’s ships’ cats.

 

Aerial Adventures

The Outer Banks is First in Flight, so it’s no surprise there are so many aerial related things to do here on the Outer Banks.  

 

17.   Hang-gliding

The Outer Banks is home to the largest Hang Gliding School in the world, so if you want to hang glide, now’s your chance. Kitty Hawk Kites offers tandem Hang-gliding this way even people with no experience are guaranteed a safe and thrilling ride.

 

18.   Fly A Replica Wright Glider

If you’ve ever seen the Wright Flyer and wished you could recreate that experience, you can the Wright glider experience is where you can fly your very own replica of the original flyer. Get set to have an adventure of a lifetime.

 

19.   Kite Flying

With its constant winds and low tree ratio, The Outer Banks is one of the best places in the world to fly kites. Every year, tons of people fly them on the beach. What’s even more fun is taking your kite to Jockey’s Ridge to fly it. Donâ??t’ have a kite? No problem. We have an entire store for that.

 

20.   Plane Tours  Plane Tours

Depending on the plane, this kind of air tour can accommodate everyone from one person to a small family. Or you could choose a biplane and take turns going up. Everyone loves an antique style biplane.

 

21.   Helicopter Tours

These types of tours are perfect for the small family. The average helicopter holds 3 passengers. Because helicopters donâ??t’ go as high as planes, you are able to a get a view of the Outer Banks that few people do.

 

22.   Skydiving

Get set for the most heart pounding thing you’ll ever do. Not only will you get a great view of the Outer Banks, you’ll get an even better on as you’re plunging to earth a spit second for the safety of a parachute snaps you back. We do tandem skydiving here, so the never-done-this-before are more than welcome.

 

23.   Kiteboarding

Ready to fly high? Kiteboarding combines the best of kite flying and boarding except that you are the kite.  Fly gracefully over the sound then get set to get wet as you come down. It’s an immersive experience.

 

24.   First Flight Harnessed Adventure Park  Adventure Park Outer Banks

A fairly recent addition to the OBX, the harnessed adventure parks features zip lines, climbing ropes, in obstacle courses and more. There’s one in Nags Head and one in Corolla, so no matter which side of the beach you’re on, you can have some high flying fun.

25.   OBX Jet Pack

You’ve seen them in the movies and on TV, and now’s your chance to try one out. Of course, this quite like the ones you’ve seen in movies. This one only works over water, but the feeling is incredible.

 

Live Entertainment

Of course, there’s a variety of live entertainment here on the Outer Banks too including family friendly options after you’ve had a full day at the beach. So get ready to enjoy some nighttime fun that doesn’t go too late.

26.   Lost Colony (Fun N Sun Partner)

Go see the oldest outdoor drama in the country about the country’s first colony on the very site where they disappeared.  Seeing the Lost Colony is an experience like you’ve never seen before. Learn history in the most interesting way possible.

 

27.   Character Dinner At The Lost Colony

If you want to go all immersive at the show then sign up for a character dinner. Not only do you get to meet the cast before the show, you get a behind the scenes tour, dinner, and VIP seating. Your kids will love meeting ‘the queen’ and all the others too.

 

28.   Murder Mystery Dinner Theater (Explore The Shore Partner)Outer Banks Mystery Dinner

Get set for murder. Actually, get set to laugh in the most hilarious murder mystery dinner theater you’ve ever seen. With corny jokes, strange stories and lively cast (except for the one who’s dead of course) you’ll have a great time figuring out ‘whodunit’. And dinner is even included.

 

29.   Live Music at the Restaurants

The Outer Banks has a lot of bands and just as many venues to see them. Many of the restaurants offer live music. Our very own vacation planner Graham Outten is a musician at these restaurants, and is the best resource for who’s playing where when.

 

30.   Ghost Tours (Explore The Shore Partner)

The Outer Banks is haunted; at least that’s what they say. Even though that might not be true, we certainly have a lot of ghost stories. A ghost tour through downtown Manteo is the perfect  opportunity to hear them all.  Of course, we recommend the OBX Ghost Tours; the only one that uses ghost detectors and has hilarious fun.

 

31.   Outer Banks Comedy Club

Come see the longest running season comedy club in the country. This is the show where comics like Ray Romano and Chris Rock got their start before they were famous. Who knows you might even see the next up and comer. Best of all, the show changes weekly so it’s never the same show twice.

 

32.   Concerts in Duck Park 

The Duck Park is home to all kinds of events from morning shows to yoga, to kid’s shows and more. But at night there are often concerts in the park.  Be sure to check them out.

 

33.   Shows at Festival Park

Festival Park features kid’s shows during the day and often more mature shows at night.  They’ve had everything from blues stars to Chinese acrobats. Be sure to check their schedule to see a full list of events.

 

Fishing

The Outer Banks has attracted sports fisherman from way back. Today, though there are more regulations, there are also an abundance of fish. So now let’s look at all your fishing options.

 

34.   Surf Fishing

This is the easiest way to fish; just grab a pole, some bait and a license and you can fish anywhere on the beach.  Great for kids and adults alike.

 

35.   Pier Fishing  Pier Fishing

The Outer Banks has an abundance of piers you can use to fish. This provides much better fishing than the surf because fish are naturally to piers for the food and perceived protection from other fish. Best of all, piers have you covered with the license. The Outer Banks Pier, in South Nags Head is one of our Fun N Sun partners, so you can fish for free.

 

36.   Inshore Charter Boat Fishing

These types of charters stay in the Sound where the waves are smaller. Since smaller waves are more easily tolerated by the very young and the elderly, it’s the perfect family outing. You will catch fish, but like everything else in the sound, they are smaller too.

 

37.   Offshore Charter Boat Fishing

These ocean charters can take you to fish around wrecks and closer to shore. It’s the perfect ‘first charter’ if you’re not sure a gulf stream is right for you or if you only want to do a half day.

 

38.   Gulf Stream Fishing

If you’re ready to go big, then there’s nothing like gulf stream fishing. You could catch Marlin, Tuna, and all kinds of large fish just perfect for eating or bragging rights. Whatever you catch, it’ll be a blast.

 

39.   Kayak Fishing

Not one to be left out, Kayak fishing has grown in popularity here. Basically it’s like boat fishing, only you’re doing it from a kayak. Most people kayak fish in the sound. The more experienced ones do it in the ocean.

 

40.   Crabbing

Though not technically a fish, crabbing is a great way to spend time with the family. All you need is a net, some twine and some chicken necks. Or you could buy the entire crabbing kit at Bob’s Bait And Tackle.  That works too.

 

Animal Related Adventures

The OBX is home to thousands of animals you donâ??t see every day, including nutria, wolves, coyotes, bobcats, dolphins, wild horses and more. If you’re an animal lover, then you’re going to love all the things there are to do involving animals on the Outer Banks.

 

41.   Wildlife Education Centers

Manteo and Corolla each host a Wildlife Education Center as part of the park service. Both are free to get in and have their own personality. One features a huge tank full of sound fish and an antique decoy collection, while the other features an indoor scavenger hunt and an aerial tour simulator. Both have some hands on activities for kids and while it’s not an all-day even, there are plenty of selfie spots and is definitely worth a stop.

 

42.   Birding With The Rangers

The Outer Banks hosts over 1000 different species of native and migratory birds. In the mornings, Pea Island offers birding tours with a ranger. You’ll get to go on great, but not commonly used trails and know exactly what bird you’re looking at.

 

43.   Wild Horse Tour (Fun N Sun Partner)  Wild Horse Tour

Living wild and free for nearly 500 years is the wild horses of Corova. It you want to see them, you’ll need a 4x drive and some luck. If you want to be guaranteed to see them, then take a horse tour. Horse tour guides are also trackers, so they’ll know where to find the horses.

 

44.   Segway Tours

No longer the domain of mall cops, these specially designed big wheeled Segways are built to go off road. You have a choice of tours, either through the Corolla historic shopping village or to the Outer Banks Outback where the wild horses are. Never ridden on a Segway? No problem. All tours include instruction.

 

45.   Red Wolf Howlings

The Outer Banks is home to the last remaining red wolves in the world. While no one can guarantee you’ll see these wild animals, hearing them is practically guaranteed.  Howlings take place  few times a season, where a ranger takes you out at night and you howl at the wolves and wait for them to howl back. Who knows, you might even see one.

 

46.   Dolphin Tour (Fun N Sun Partner)

Want to see dolphins? You could rent a boat and take your chances or you could go on a dolphin tour, where you are guaranteed to see dolphins.  Watching these ocean mammals paly in the water is one of the true joys in life.

 

47.   Alligator River

This wildlife preserve is home to a variety of animals, including nutria, red wolves, alligators, black bear and more. Of course a preserve isn’t’ like a zoo. You may or may not see animals when you visit, but that’s part of the fun.

 

48.   Alligator River Tram Tour

This is a tour run by the rangers in an open air tram. It’s perfect if you want to explore without subjecting your car to off road conditions. There’s a cost for reservations, but showing up is free, as long as you’re willing to take your chances that there might not be a seat.

 

49.   Alligator River Kayak Tour

Are there alligators in the alligator river? Yes. Are you likely to see them? Well, taking a Kayak tour greatly increases your odds since you are where they are. Donâ??t worry. They just think your kayak is a bigger gator, so they won’t’ bother you.

 

50.   Aquarium On Roanoke Island

Rated as one of the top ten best small aquariums on trip advisor, our local aquarium has features usually only seen in big ones; like holograms, jellyfish and sharks you can pet.

 

51.   Ride Horses On The Beach (Explore the Shore Partner)

If you’ve always dreamed of horseback riding on the beach, now’s your chance. Equine Adventures has a horse for every skill level; from the never-ridden-before to the advanced rider.  It takes you from the beach to the forest in the ride of a lifetime.

 

52.   Go Ghost Crabbing

Ghost crabs come out at night blend into the sand and scamper when you shine light at them. They are great fun to chase for kids and the kids at heart. Take their pictures and post them on Instagram and say you’ve ‘seen a ghost’ a ghost crab, that is.

Amusements

Looking for something else to do besides the beach? Donâ??t’ worry, we have all kinds of amusements and fun here. Here are just a few selections.

 

53.   Mini Golf (Fun N Sun Partner)  Mini Golf

From an ultra-modern course with trains, to indoor 3d golf, to the courses of yesteryear, the Outer Banks has mini golf courses galore. We even have the last grass mini golf course left in the country.  Of course, if golfing and ice cream is more your speed, then check out DQ mini golf.  Loser buys the ice cream.

 

54.   H2OBX Water Park (Discounted Tickets Available)

Get set to get wet. The Outer Banks newest waterpark features a wave pool, thrilling slides, a lazy river and special sections for tweens and babies.

 

55.   Laser Tag

Made popular on HIMYM, now you can have your own laser tag adventure. This attraction has recently had some work done and is now ready for business. It’s the perfect thing for those rainy days.

 

56.   Escape Room (Fun N Sun Partner)

If you’ve always wanted an adventure like you’ve seen on TV, now’s your chance. Our partner in Currituck can provide a murder mystery, a jewel heists, witch’s lair, a pirates cave and more. Be sure to check them out.

 

57.   Pirate Adventure

If your child has always wanted to be a pirate now’s their chance. This attraction features a full sized ‘pirate ship’ dress up, a treasure hunt as ‘sea’ (really the sound) and dastardly villain pirate out to stop them. It’s a good time for all, and there are even water cannons.

 

58.   Movies

Upset about missing that great new release? Don’t worry. We have movies. The megaplex offers all the modern releases, including 3D and Fathom Events. The one in Corolla is a dinner-and-a-movie type. Finally the one the in Manteo is the oldest family owned theater in the country.

 

59.   Movies On The Sound (Duck Park)

Looking for a great family event? In season, the Duck Park offers movies on the sound, an older, family friendly movie where you get to sit on the grass, picnic, watch a movie and have a great time.

 

60.   Children At Play Museum  

If you have little ones, then you’ll want to check out this special museum for kids under 5 where play is celebrated. There’s a busy wall, a boat to catch ‘fish’ and use their imaginations. Bringing an older sibling who finds this stuff boring? No problem. The video games are upstairs.

 

61.   Grave Digger Monster Truck

Second only to Bigfoot in its fame, Grave digger is the most beloved monster Truck. Dennis Anderson and Son are often found at the Digger site for photo ops and questions. Sometimes, you can even take a ride a on a Grave Digger yourself. Your kids, and the kid inside you, will love it.

 

62.   Bumper Cars And Boats

Step back to childhood with bumper cars, one of the oldest attractions on the Outer Banks. It has all the bumper car goodness you remember and now can share with your kids. And donâ??t’ forget the bumper boats. We have those too.

 

63.   Turf’s Up

The newest attraction at the Outer Banks features a variety of virtual games from golf to carnival games to Zombie Dodgeball. If the day is gray then this a great place to play.

 

64.   Golf (Fun N Sun Partner)

The Outer Banks is home to some world class golf courses. Among them are the Carolina Club and The Pointe.  Since they are also our Fun N Sun Partners, you get to play a round for free. What could be better than that?

 

65.   Climb Jockey’s Ridge  Climb Jockey's Ridge

The largest all natural sand dune on the east coast is a world unto itself. Kids love climbing it and rolling down. Even the dogs love it, and they are welcome. The view from the top is amazing, and there’s no better place to watch a sunset.

 

Art

If you’re the creative or cultured type, then you’re going to love checking out these  art themed galleries shops and activities. 

 

66.   Deja New

Everything old is new again, and that’s certainly true here.  This gallery takes old, word out furniture and gives it an overhaul making it new modern and fresh. They also have classes on journaling and reposing old furniture. This is upcycling at its finest.

 

67.   Dare County Arts Council

Located in Downtown Manteo in a 1904 courthouse, the Arts Council displays artists from all over the Outer Banks from painting to sculpture to so much more. And best of all, it’s all original. There’s no mass produced anything here.

 

68.   Gallery Row

The anchor store of this section of gallery’s is Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery, feature the original art of him and others. It also features Jewelry by Gail, whose creations have been worn on the red carpet by movie stars.

 

69.   Seaside Art Gallery

This gallery is so old it has a PO Box of 1. It not only showcases famous artists from around the world, it has the largest selection of antique jewelry and animation cells on the Outer Banks.

 

70.   Have Professional Photos Taken On The Beach

The best souvenirs are memories. They never go out of style and it always the perfect fit for everyone. There are many photographers on the beach that can make this happen.  Not only are the pictures something to treasure, the memories you make while you’re creating them are even better.

Fun Classes

Ready to learn something new? Then take advantage of one of these super fun classes, great for singles, kids or families.

 

71.   Wine And Pant

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to paint with a group of likeminded people and having a great time, now’s your chance. Several galleries offer wine and paint where you can bring your own wine and paint something, like your pet, or a lighthouse, and have a great time.

 

72.   Paint Your Own Pottery-Glazin Go Nuts

Ok, so this is less of a class, but they do have books and it’s fun for the entire family. You simply go in, pick out your time and paint it. They have plates, banks, ornaments, and all kinds of fun stuff. You can pick it up at the end of the week or they will ship it to you.

 

73.   Jewelry Making- Cloud 9

This is the oldest Jewelry making supply store on the Outer Banks. Throughout the year, she has various classes on how to make certain types of jewelry. Wire wrapping your found sea glass is the favorite, but she has many others.

 

74.   Mermaid Academy

If your child loves mermaid stories, here’s their chance to become one.  Basic swimming skills are all that’s needed to teach your child to swim like a mermaid. Tails are provided and also available to buy.

 

75.   In Home Cooking Lessons

Did you know that there are chefs that will come to your home to teach you how to cook? It’s great fun for the whole family regardless of age, and you even get to eat your lesson plan.

 

76.   Drone School

It’s time to go back to school, drone school that is. If you’re ever wanted to learn how to fly a drone, now’s your chance.  No drone? No problem. The class provides ones to practice with as well as ones to purchase after. Are you ready to learn about this picture taking machine?

 

77.   Paddleboard Yoga

That’s right. Here at the Outer Banks, we do everything on the water, including yoga. Yoga on a paddleboard over the majestic sound provides the perfect way to test your skills and commune with nature.

 

78.   Wine University

If you love wine, or would like to know more about it, then you’re in luck. Several places here including wineries and Chips offer ‘wine universities’ a fun class that teaches you about wines, pairings and more.

 

Shopping

There’s no enclosed mall at the Outer Banks, but that doesn’t mean there’s no place to shop. In fact, there are tons of places. Here are a few of them.

 

79.   The Antique Mall

Also known as the Central Square Shopping Center, this outdoor cluster mall holds a variety of antique shops. It contains tons of wonderful antiques dating back centuries.

 

80.   Tanger Outlet Mall

If you love outlet malls, you’ll love ours too. It features a Wilson’s leather, a discount bookstore, a dress barn, a Talbot’s and all kinds of other stores. There’s even a Tropical Smoothie so you don’t have to leave to get something to eat.

 

81.   The Town of Duck

The 1.5 miles of Downtown Duck is a rarity; a town with absolutely no chain stores or restaurants. You can use the Duck soundside boardwalk to walk anywhere in Downtown Duck, and shop dozens of boutique shops and mom and pop restaurants.

 

82.   Downtown Manteo

This town located in the county seat is tucked away from the beach but is still a great place to shop. Boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, great places to eat and a waterside view, what could be better?

 

83.   Wings

This the quintessential tourist store on the Outer Banks. It has bathing suits, towels and more souvenirs than you can shake a stick at. This isn’t boutique type stuff it’s pure kitsch and it’s glorious.

 

Water Adventures

Now we get to the reason everyone comes here- the water.  If you or your kids are water babies, then you’re going to love this list of water adventures.

 

84.   Pontoon Boat (Explore The Shore Partner)

Typical chartered boats are for fishing or exploring. However, the OBX Pontoon Man does so much more than that. He takes you fishing, crabbing and tubing, and even to some islands off the beaten path if thereâ??s time. You can rent the boat, complete with captain, for a full day, half day or 2 hour rental. A good time will be had by all and you always come home with crabs.

 

85.   Jet Skis (Explore The Shore Partner)

Imagine the wind in your hair, the spray on your face. This is all possible with jet skis. It’s just a like driving a fast car without any of the annoyances of traffic. Are you ready to Jet Ski? You can rent one at Corolla & Duck Watersports.

 

86.   Parasailing (Explore The Shore Partner)

Parasailing is a lot like Kiteboarding except you can do it in tandem. There are parasails rigs for up to 4 people, making it the perfect family friendly activity. Corolla & Duck Parasail will be happy to find the right parasail rig for you.

 

87.   Kayaking (Fun N Sun Partner)  Kayaking on the Outer Banks

Kayaking is a great way to see  parts of the Outer Banks youâ??ve never seen before as well as venture into place that most people miss. If youâ??re new to kayaking, then youâ??ll want to take some lessons with the Kitty Hawk Kayak and Surf School. If you already know what youâ??re doing, then you can just rent a kayak and explore.

88.   Stand Up Paddle Boarding ( Fun N Sun Partner; )

AKA SUPing, is the newest water craze to hit the OBX.  If you have a decent sense of balance, you can cruise the sound in style. Looking for something more extreme? Surfers do this in the ocean. Of course if you need lessons, check out the Kitty Hawk Kayak and Surf School

 

89.   Scuba Diving

If youâ??re a certified scuba diver, then get set to have some fun. There are plenty of wrecks off our coat that you can dive on and thereâ??s even a scuba school so you can go out with a group. If youâ??ve always wanted to swim with the sharks, the aquarium lets you get in their big tank cage free to swim with these alpha predators.

 

90.   Surfing (Fun N Sun Partner)

Surfing soothes the soul so much that we have a Surfing for Autism event here every summer.  But Surfing is great for everyone, and if you don’tâ?? have a board, you can rent one from one of our many surf shops. Arenâ??t sure about your balance? Then boogey boards might be right for you. Those are a cheap buy in any tourist store.  Be sure to check out Kitty Hawk Kayak and Surf School if you need lessons.

 

91.   Downeast Rover

This 55 foot topsail schooner is leaving out of Manteo is one of the best ways to see the Outer Banks sound. It holds 25 people, but if your groups not big enough to rent the whole thing, don’t worry, they also have daily charters that will take out multiple combined groups of any size.

 

Libations

Looking for some fun with adult drinks? Here are the best choices for good time together sans kids.

 

92.   Winery Tour Complete With Tasting

Sanctuary Vineyards offers a free tour and tasting in season. You’ll taste some of their award winning wines, see the vines, learn about the process of winemaking and get a special price on bottles to take home.

 

93.   Distillery Tours

The Outer Banks was home to the first craft brewers in the state. Today, there are several local breweries, and many offer tours of their operations. A few even have tastings.

 

94.   Metropolis

Globally inspired food and cocktails are waiting to greet you at the Outer Banks first and only Martini Bar. They feature tapas instead of dinner so you’ll always have room for drinks.

               

95.   Sanctuary Vineyard Voyage

This unique experience takes you by pontoon boat to across the sound to Sanctuary Vineyards, an award winning winery. From there, you’ll get to sample an assortment of about 15-20  wines including dessert wines, ice wine and more.  It’s followed by a tour of the vineyard and a boat ride back.

 

96.   TRiO

This unique restaurant is the best way to sample exotic wines without purchasing a bottle. You simply buy a prepaid card, and then go through and choose any wine of your choice by the full glass, half glass or quarter glass.  It also has great sandwiches, and an assortment of fancy cheeses.

 

Unique Dining Experiences

Dining out should be an adventure. While there are plenty of great places to eat out here on the OBX, these restaurants were chosen because of their cool themes.

 

97.   Big Al’s  

Step back in time with this unique 1950s restaurant complete with red seats, checkerboard floors and milkshakes you won’t believe.  Happy Days are here again.

 

98.   Diggers Dungeon

If you love monster trucks, you have to eat at Digger’s Dungeon in Currituck. It’s official dinner of Grave Digger; the second most famous Monster Truck in the world.  Grave Digger is on site for photo ops and sometimes Dennis Anderson or his son drop by too.

 

99.   Farmer To Fork -Weeping Radish

You might remember this restaurant from its stint in Manteo. Today, it’s over in Currituck, all its German trappings gone except for one thing; the love of good fresh food. The food is all sourced locally, right down to the onsite butcher. So if you’re looking for the best, freshest food in town, you’ve found it.

 

100.   Grandstaff and Stein

This new restaurant is done in the style of a 1920’s speakeasy, complete with an entrance behind the bookcase. You have to know the password to gain entry, but it’s posted on their Facebook page daily.  Whisper the name and enjoy food and mixed drinks the 1920’s way.

So that’s our list of a 100 things to do on the Outer Banks. What did you think? Did your favorite make it the list?  Don’t forget if you need a place to stay so you can do all these, check out our fine selection of homes.

 

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