Planning the perfect trip to the Outer Banks this summer? There’s plenty to explore, from nature and history to dining and live theater. This isn’t an exhaustive list of everything to do in the Outer Banks. Beyond the highlights below, you’ll find sightseeing tours, watersports like fishing, parasailing, and paddling, plus arcades, laser tag, shopping, parks, and historic sites such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial. If time is tight, I’ve picked out the standout experiences worth your while. I’ll also toss in tips for where to stay on Roanoke Island and the beach, along with some solid dining options. Mix and match to craft your ideal OBX escape.
The Lost Colony
How do you sum up “The Lost Colony” for newcomers? It’s the nation’s longest-running outdoor symphonic drama. Not a musical, but a retelling of the true, unsolved mystery of America’s first English settlers from 1587, who vanished three years later, leaving only “CROATOAN” carved on a post. The show brings this tale to life with sword fights, a dramatic ocean-crossing scene featuring a thunderstorm, and stunning effects like fire, elaborate sets, and creative puppetry. Held nightly (except Sundays) from May 29 to Aug. 23, 2025, at the open-air amphitheater in Fort Raleigh Historic Site on Roanoke Island, it’s a spectacle that’s drawn over 4 million viewers since 1937. Worth the trip alone.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Beaches might come to mind when you think of the Outer Banks, but how about the East Coast’s tallest sand dunes? Jockey’s Ridge State Park boasts a surreal landscape of soft, pale brown peaks dotted with green trees. Kick off your shoes, climb to the top, and soak in views of the Atlantic Ocean and Roanoke Sound. It’s also an adventure spot: watch hang gliders soar, fly a kite, or try kiteboarding, windsurfing, or sandboarding. There’s swimming access on the soundside too. Sunrises and sunsets here are unbeatable. Admission is free.
Jennette’s Pier
Jennette’s Pier isn’t just for fishing, though it’s prime for that. Managed by the North Carolina Aquarium, it offers free indoor fish exhibits (the Pier Piling Aquarium) with a cool AC break, clean restrooms, benches, and Wi-Fi. Outside, the 1,000-foot pier juts into the Atlantic; a small fee lets you walk it. For a free photo op, duck underneath where the wooden pilings frame the waves.
Roanoke Island Festival Park
The living history interpreters at Roanoke Island Festival Park make the past feel real. Step onto the Elizabeth II, a replica 16th-century ship, to learn how sailors navigated without wheels and managed early New World voyages. On this 25-acre island, watch a blacksmith at work, try woodworking, or don 1500s-style armor. Hear Native American stories, explore the indoor museum’s interactive exhibits, and catch a film on the Roanoke voyages. It’s a smart way to blend fun with a history lesson.
The Elizabethan Gardens
Love blooms or fairy tales? The Elizabethan Gardens has both. Grab a map to hunt for 12 hidden sprites scattered around. The Discovery Cottage offers climbing, digging, and indoor learning with terrariums and microscopes, while a butterfly garden buzzes nearby. The floral lineup—camellias, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, roses, wisteria—keeps something blooming year-round. Sculptures like the massive bronze Queen Elizabeth I and a marble Virginia Dare add elegance. Visit at opening in summer for cooler temps.
Outer Banks Beaches
The OBX beaches are a must. Whether you want space to sprawl, shells to collect, or waves to ride, places like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk deliver easy access. Nearby, I Got Your Crabs is a casual oyster bar run by a third-generation local fisherman. Go for the crab-loaded nachos with heaps of cheese. For a treat, Surfin’ Spoon nails it with frozen yogurt and ice cream cookie sandwiches (think pretzel graham crackers with sea salt caramel). Tough call between a sandwich and a bowl, but both hit the spot.
Duck Boardwalk
A quick drive north to Duck lands you at this free boardwalk along Currituck Sound. Enjoy the scenery, then hit the Waterfront Shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. The original Duck Donuts is a must-try. Restaurants like NC Coast Grill & Bar, Aqua Restaurant, and The Blue Point serve up surf and turf with waterside views. For a fancier night nearby, Red Sky Casual Dining & Cocktails offers tasty U-10 scallops in a laid-back vibe.
Outer Banks National Scenic Byway
Love a good road trip? The Outer Banks National Scenic Byway stretches 138 miles along NC Highway 12. Stop at Bodie Island Lighthouse — book climbing tickets online ahead of time, or just enjoy the grounds and trails. Pack beach gear; you might find a quiet shore to claim. Grab a sandwich from Waves Market and Deli for a budget-friendly beach picnic. On the return, pause between Avon and Buxton for a Pamlico Sound sunset.
Bonus: Where To Stay in the Outer Banks
In downtown Manteo, The Pearl blends boutique elegance with comfort. Its 16 unique rooms feature Italian-inspired decor, luxe fabrics, and modern perks like smart TVs and sleek bathrooms. Coffee and a light breakfast (think sweet potato biscuits from Mia’s Bake Shop) come with your stay. The rooftop greenspace offers Manteo’s best views—perfect for morning coffee or sunset swings. Walk to sandwich shops, ice cream, and the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse.
