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The Outer Banks in North Carolina is made up of many cities and areas, which means that if you find yourself traveling there, there are so many opportunities and experiences where you can make memories. I’ve researched these various areas and come up with a list of the top 25 free things to do in the Outer Banks NC!
Top 25 Free Things to Do in the Outer Banks NC
Go to the beach
I didn’t want to leave out the obvious! There are tons of beach options in the Outer Banks—you can’t go wrong.
Visit the Monument to a Century of Flight
This area is home to Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers made their historic first flight. It’s not free to get into the Kitty Hawk historic site, but you can see this tribute to the history of flight for free.
Go ghost crabbing
Apparently this is a super popular activity in the Outer Banks! Here’s the idea: You take a flashlight onto the beach at night and chase (not hunt!) ghost crabs, which are nocturnal.
Walk through Buxton Woods
This area is not right on the coast, but you can walk through the woods and enjoy the just-of-the-coast natural habitats.
Walk down Kitty Hawk Pier
Get a taste for the history of Kitty Hawk by walking down the long pier. You can enjoy the views and watch people fish.
See a sunset at Pamlico Sound
During the day, there are lots of watersports activities going on here, but it sounds like the real excitement comes at sunset, where the huge expanse of water provides breathtaking views.
Visit Jockey’s Ridge State Park
State parks are often free, so they’re a great option when you’re visiting a new place!
Visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum
This museum sounds a little dark, doesn’t it? But it promises to reveal lots of ship and ocean-related history that’s super interesting.
Stroll through Manteo
Manteo is a city along the Outer Banks that is beautifully designed and has lots of opportunities for people-watching and browsing. There’s also an Elizabethan Gardens you can walk through if you have any plant lovers in your family.
Play at Sandy Run Park
Enjoy some family time in this big green space.
Play at Duck Town Park
This park has a playground as well as a boardwalk where you might manage to spot some local wildlife.
Visit the art galleries on Gallery Row
This area has many galleries all in the same area with different themes, allowing you to experience a variety of different artistic mediums.
Explore Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
This nature refuge would be fun just to walk around, but they also offer frequent programs to add to the experience.
Visit Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
If you’ve read the recent popular book Where the Crawdads Sing, you will want to explore this wildlife refuge. It will feel like stepping into the book!
Go to Cape Hatteras National Seashore
There are all kinds of wildlife you can spot here, as well as getting the chance to dip your toes in the water.
Play at Dowdy’s Park
Located in Nag’s Head, this park has lots of green space and a playground.
Visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
You’ll have to pay a small fee to climb the lighthouse, but you can go to the gift shop and explore around it for free.
Walk down Jennette’s Pier
This is a super long pier that offers extraordinary views and the chance to watch fisherman bring in some great catches!
Kayak to Shelly Island
You can get to this “shell”-y island by swimming, although it’s not recommended. It’s better to paddleboard or kayak, which means it may not be great for small children. But if you can figure out how to get to the island, it looks worth the journey!
Explore Nag’s Head Woods
Maybe because it’s still so hot when I’m writing this, but wandering through these woods in the fall seems like a dream come true.
Browse the Avon Farmers Market
See what local produce and craftsmanship is available in the area at this farmers market.
Visit Whalehead Junction Park
Here you can see lots of old whale bones displayed and get more information about the surrounding area.
Read a book at the Dare County Library
If the weather’s bad while you’re in the Outer Banks, curl up with a good book and enjoy the free Wi-Fi at one of the library branches.
Explore the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Located on Roanoke Island in the middle section of the Outer Banks, it’s free to visit and explore this national historic site.
Climb the live oaks at Hayman Street Park
This park in the downtown area of Kill Devil Hills has lots of green space as well as live oak trees that are perfect for climbing!
Staying in the big city instead? Check our our list of the top 25 free things to do in Charlotte!
