When you think of vacationing in the Outer Banks the first thing that comes to mind is probably beach related activities. What you may not realize is the Outer Banks is consistently ranked one of the best family destinations and offers some super-cool kid activities not found elsewhere.
Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial
The memorial is a tribute to the first flight completed by Wilbur and Orville Wright. When visiting the memorial kids are able to become a junior ranger. Once arriving to the park pick up a junior ranger booklet at the front desk. After the kids learn all about the Wright brothers they will be sworn in as a junior ranger. Children under the age of 16 are free!
Visit the Aquarium
Even though many places you visit will have an aquarium close by kids always seem to enjoy going. At the aquarium kids will be able to see otters, jellyfish, alligators, and one of the largest collection of sharks in the state. They will love the hands-on sea turtle rescue exhibit and the touching tank full stingrays. This is a great rain day activity but if you go while it's not raining be sure to check out the sound side pier and nature trail.
Bouncing Off The Walls
This is the perfect activity for a rainy day or when the ocean is too rough to swim at the beach. Bouncing off the Walls is a party center full of inflatable fun. The interactive area has obstacle courses, slides, and moon bounces. There is also a nerf gun room and paint studio.
H2OBX Waterpark
Splash into fun at the new waterpark located right over the bridge in Currituck. H2OBX features more than 30 exciting attractions throughout the park. The kids will enjoy spending the day at Calico Jacks Cove. They will love the interactive play structures, splashing in the wave pool, floating on the lazy river, and looping through all the exciting slides.
See the Wild Horses
The wild horses are a beautiful sight that the entire family will enjoy. Bring your camera, rent a jeep or take a guided tour, and take off down the beach for an off-road wild horse adventure you will never forget.
Become a Pirate
At Pirate Adventures of the OBX, your kids can come aboard and experience a bit of the pirate life. This experience is designed to educate, expand their imaginations and enlighten their minds. They'll learn the rules of the sea as they go in search of Pirate Pete and the map they need to find the sunken treasure.
Visit Jockey's Ridge
What could be more fun than climbing a large sand dune?! Nothing! That is why visiting Jockey's Ridge is on our list! Kids will love running up the large sand dunes and then rolling down. Be careful though! In the summer the sand can get hot. It is best to go in the evening to fly a kite while watching the sunset.
Visit a Lighthouse
From Cape Hatteras to the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, kids will be able to learn about lighthouses as well as burn off some energy climbing all the steps to the top. Once you climb the hundreds of steps you will be able to enjoy the surrounding views of marshlands and the ocean. Be sure to bring your camera.
While you're visiting the Outer Banks, you absolutely want to leave time for the beach. Splashing in the waves and playing in the sand are an exciting part of your vacation. But don't neglect these unique kids' activities found only in the Outer Banks. You'll be glad you did!
