Top Attractions on the Outer Banks for Young Children

by Micaela Williamson

Having a young child shouldn't prevent you from traveling. The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a popular destination and offers lots of adventures for travelers of all ages.  Insider tip: If your vacation isn't dictated by the school year calendar, the early fall is a great time for an OBX getaway. The water is still warm, and air temperature is pleasant.  Besides spending time at the pristine beaches, we recommend these top attractions for families with little ones:

Pirate Adventures of the OBX
408 Queen Elizabeth Avenue
Manteo, NC 27954

This ship isn't a top rated attraction for kids on Trip Advisor for no reason!  Staff truly entertains little ones in an interactive, fun, and never scary pirate ship voyage. Besides the pirate entertainment, kids get to shoot water cannons, pull up treasure, get their face painted, and dress up like pirates. Sometimes dolphins are even spotted from onboard! Reservations are highly recommended.

Wild Horse Adventure Tours
610 Currituck Clubhouse Drive
Corolla, NC, 27927

Ride in a hummer to get a guided tour through three distinct ecosystems and gain exclusive access to the Wild Horse Sanctuary. Get up close views of the famous Outer Banks Wild Spanish Mustangs and other local wildlife. There is no age requirement on the tours, and car seats are allowed.  These adventures are great for a multi-generational activity. Visit the website for coupons and to make advance reservations.

Mini Golf

Why would we recommend giving a stick to a young child? We know! But, themed mini-golf places are abundant in the Outer Banks and make for a fun after dinner outing even if the kids enjoy looking at the course more than actually playing the game. 

Kitty Hawk Kites
Multiple locations

From basic to elaborate, Kitty Hawk Kites has the largest assortment of kites on the OBX. Kids will love looking around the stores and buying a kite to test out on the beaches.  For older kids or adults seeking more adventure, Kitty Hawk Kites also hosts a variety of tours, including sightseeing, kayaking, hang gliding, fishing, sailing and more.

North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island
374 Airport Rd.
Manteo, NC 27954

This aquarium boasts the largest collections of sharks in the state.  Visitor can see an alligator, many fish and stingrays, coastal wetland creatures and experience the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center. The aquarium is set to undergo a major renovation in the fall of 2015. Manteo is also a charming place with a walkable downtown lined with fun shops and restaurants.

Island Farm
140 US Highway 64, north of Manteo on Roanoke Island

This comprehensive living history museum depicts farm life on Roanoke Island in the mid-1800s.  The property is made up of a farm house, a few outer buildings, and a visitors center.  Costumed interpreters run hands-on and interactive demonstrations throughout the day, and kids will love to see the farm animals. 

A note about lighthouses....
We left lighthouses off this list because we were specifically focusing on attractions for young children.  All of the lighthouses on the Outer Banks have a height requirement of 42 inches. Parents are not allowed to carry small children up the stairs.  However, the lighthouses are breathtaking and worth a photo op on the outside.