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Learn about Local Environment at Jeanette's Pier

Jeanette's Pier is a local historic landmark located in Nags Head at Milepost 16.5. Although Hurricane Isabel took 540 feet of the pier in 2003, the pier house reopened in 2004. The pier is owned by the North Carolina Aquarium Society, which has a unique partnership with the North Carolina Aquarium. There are plans in place to enlarge and rebuild the property. In the peak season, there are daily educational activities in the ocean classroom located in the pier house. Programs such as Beach Exploring, Family Fishing, Beach Fun and Safety, Marsh Adventure for Kids, Beach Creatures of the Night and more are offered throughout the week. For more information, contact Jeanette's Pier at (252) 441-6421.

Visit Local Art Galleries and Shops To View Local Talent and Style

Because of the natural beauty of the ocean and its surroundings on the Outer Banks, many artists live in the area and express their love for the Outer Banks in their artwork. There are several art shows and events throughout the year and several art galleries located throughout the Outer Banks. If you are interested in art, you will love spending a day touring some galleries in the area. If the timing is right, you might also get to see an art show or attend an event! For more information, contact the Dare County Arts Council at (252) 473-5558.

Tour the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum

The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, located in Hatteras Village, was created to preserve the maritime history and shipwrecks of the Outer Banks throughout history. Emphasis in the museum is placed on the periods from 1524 to 1945. The museum has a unique design with an entrance modeled after the timbers of the many shipwrecks that have happened along the treacherous Hatteras coast. For more information, contact the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum at (252) 986-2995.

Go Swimming in the Ocean

A favorite pastime on the Outer Banks is going swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. Many people like to feel the wet sand between their toes, dive into the waves or even ride boogie boards on the waves as they go onshore. If you aren't a strong swimmer and aren't familiar with tides, don't go out too far because the ocean can be very dangerous. If you have children, make them wear life jackets and keep your eyes on them. Some of the Outer Banks beaches are protected by lifeguards, but many of them are not. Also watch for sea creatures like stingrays, jellyfish and sharks. Use caution and stay safe!

Drive-Thru a Brew Thru Convenience Store

You've heard of drive-thru fast food restaurants, but have you ever been to a drive-thru gas station and convenience store? The Outer Banks is home to the original Brew Thru, which is a local chain of drive-thru gas station/convenience stores where you will find friendly service, great prices and the unique Brew Thru apparel - all without having to leave the comfort of your car! There are four Brew Thru locations to serve you, located between Corolla and Nags Head. Drive thru and check them out!

Spend a Relaxing Afternoon of Kayaking or Canoeing

People of any age and skill level can enjoy a relaxing afternoon of kayaking or canoeing in the calm waters of the Outer Banks sounds. There are several stores available throughout the Outer Banks where you can rent either a kayak or a canoe, and there are different types available depending on your preference. You can rent equipment from Carolina Outdoors in Corolla, Nags Head, Manteo, Avon or Hatteras at (800) 334-4777. Several companies also offer guided kayak and canoe eco-tours. Corolla Adventure Tours leads tours on the northern beaches and can be reached at (252) 453-6899. Ocracoke Adventures leads tours of the Pamlico Sound and Ocracoke Island and can be reached at (252) 928-7873.

Tour the Elizabethan Gardens

The Elizabethan Gardens on Roanoke Island offer a picturesque view of more than 1,000 varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers. Created in 1960 in memory of Sir Walter Raleigh's colonists for their efforts in establishing an English settlement, these botanical gardens are open year-round. The paths take visitors through 10.5 acres of some of North Carolina's most colorful flowers. Most paths are wheelchair-accessible. Garden admission is $6 for adults, $4 for kids between ages six through 18, $5 for adults age 62 and older and free for children under 5 when accompanied by an adult. Hours of operation vary throughout the year. For more information, contact The Elizabethan Gardens at (252) 473-3234.

Spend the Afternoon at Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park is home to the East Coast's tallest sand dune that is 1.5 miles long, 100 feet high and consists of 420 acres and is a popular day time destination. Though the park doesn't have any overnight camping facilities, many visitors enjoy the park daily. Visitors come to this park to hike to the top of the dune and enjoy the panoramic ocean and sound views, which are even more beautiful during sunset. Sound side access in the park is a popular place for windsurfers to launch. People also enjoy hang gliding off the dune and flying their kites in this large, open park. For more information, contact the park at (252) 441-7132.

Watch a Performance at the Outer Banks Music Showcase

The Outer Banks Music Showcase opened in the summer of 2004 and has been a popular entertainment destination for visitors and locals. The audience is entertained by various local performers who blend music with comedy to create family-friendly shows. Several music genres are presented including country, show tunes, pop, 1950s and 1960s, gospel and patriotic music. During the peak season, two performances are held each night. The theater is located in Kitty Hawk at Milepost 4.5 on US Highway 158. Tickets start at $19.95 for adults and $11.95 for children twelve and under. For more information, contact the Outer Banks Music Showcase at (252) 261-7505.

Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial

On December 17, 1903, Orville and Wilbur Wright (otherwise known as the Wright Brothers) soared in their homemade flying machine for more than 852 feet, staying in the air for 59 seconds. They were the first to get a powered airplane to fly in the sky. In 1932, a granite monument was built in their memory on a steep hill in the center of Kill Devil Hills, which is the same monument thousands of visitors visit each year. The site is managed by the National Park Service and there is also a visitor center, gift shop and museum. Tours and summer programs are available. Admission is $4 for adults and free for children 15 and under. For more information, contact the Wright Brothers National Memorial at (252) 441-7430.