Sampling of Outer Banks Attractions

Jockey's Ridge State Park- The tallest active sand dune in the eastern United States (110-140 ft.). The park comprises 484 acres with a park museum, picnic area, 1.5 mile nature trail, and a boardwalk trail accessible to the handicapped. This is the third most popular park in the state.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge- Wildlife includes the Greater Snow Goose, wildfowl during the winter, wading and shore birds during the autumn. Parking and observation platforms, handicapped trails accessible, information headquarters 7 miles south of Oregon Inlet. Refuge located adjacent NC 12 between Oregon Inlet and Rodanthe. Free, daylight hours, 252-473-1131.

Buxton Woods Nature Trail- This trail is located just south of the lighthouse on the right side of the road. The trail is 3/4 of a mile long, and navigates in and around the maritime forest of Buxton Woods.

Nags Head Woods- Explore the islands natural areas, The Nature Conservancy offer a variety of summer trips and educational programs in the forest. Summer adventures include kayak trips, bike-hikes, geology hikes, early morning migratory bird walks and cultural history walks

Wright Brothers Memorial- Site of the first powered flight. Visitor center with exhibits and lectures of the Wright Brothers. Reproduction of the 1903 Wright Flyer and 1903 Wright Glider, campsite living quarters, and the flight grounds. Tours and lectures every hour. Open 9 AM - 5 PM daily, and 9 AM - 6 PM during summer, closed Christmas Day

Elizabethan Gardens- A 16th century style gardens created as a memorial to the ill-fated Lost Colony by the Garden Club of North Carolina. Ornamental gardens and statuary, wildflowers and shrubs. Open daily 9 AM - 5 PM, June-Labor Day, 9 AM - 8 PM. Admission Charged. Located adjacent to the Lost Colony and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Hatteras Lighthouse and Visitor's Center- The most prominent symbol of the Outer Banks is the "candy striped" lighthouse. The tallest brick lighthouse in North America is free to climb and is open Easter through Memorial Day 10-2, Memorial Day to Labor day 10-4, and Labor Day to Columbus Day 10-2. The visitors center holds a history of the area and light, and is open 9-5 daily. 252-995-4474

North Carolina Aquarium- Features fish and marine life native to North Carolina. Touch tank, large shark gallery, shoreline board walk, films and informative lectures. Admission $3 adults, $1 children, open 9 AM - 7 PM Memorial Day to Labor Day. Regular hours 9AM - 5PM Mon-Sat, Sundays 1PM - 5PM

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