Are you thinking about going to Nags Head, North Carolina, and want to find fun things to do there? Don’t look any further! You’ve come to the right place. We’re going to talk about the 26+ best and most fun things to do in Nags Head, NC.
Nags Head, North Carolina, is a true coastal paradise that is nestled on the beautiful Outer Banks. Both tourists and residents can enjoy a wide range of activities. Beautiful scenery, history, and fun things to do can all be found in this coastal town.
Nags Head is a great place to visit for all types of travelers, with everything from beautiful beaches to important historical sites. Visit Jennette’s Pier, look around Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and have fun with your family at First Flight Adventure Park.
There are 26+ fun and interesting things to do in Nags Head, North Carolina (2024).
1. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
You can start your Nags Head journey at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which is a beautiful natural area.
This park covers 427 acres and is in Dare County in the Outer Banks. It has the largest natural dunes system on the whole eastern seaboard of the United States.
This park is a great place to do many outdoor activities, like flying kites, gliding, having lunch, and watching the sun go down.
As a fun thing to do in Nags Head, people can walk along the miles of trails that run through the dunes, have a picnic, use the kayak or boat launches, or try sandboarding, hang gliding, or kite surfing.
Nags Head, NC 27959, USA, 300 W Carolista Drive
2. Nags Head Beaches
One fun thing to do in Nags Head, NC, is to go to Nags Head Beaches to get away from the summer heat. These beaches are the perfect place for people who love having fun.
Nags Head Beaches are a great place for beach lovers to go because they have miles of beautiful shoreline, rolling dunes, and dolphins playing in the clear water.
On any given summer day, people can lay out in the sun, swim, search the shore for gifts like seashells and interesting sea life, and build sandcastles along the shore.
Nags Head, NC 27959, USA, 2919 S Virginia Dare Trail
3. Bodie Island Lighthouse
The famous Bodie Island Lighthouse is just a short drive south of Nags Head. It is one of the must-see places in Nags Head.
This famous building, which was built in 1872, is the third one to stand in this area to help ships find their way. The black and white stripes on the Bodie Island Lighthouse make it stand out as a major draw in the Outer Banks. It is 165 feet tall and has 214 steps that spiral to the top.
You can take a walk of the lighthouse during certain times of the year and climb to the top for a great view of the Outer Banks.
You can also look around the visitor center to learn about the lighthouse’s past and how it helps ships find their way.
The address is 8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
4. Kitty Hawk Kites
One fun thing to do outside in Nags Head is to go to Kitty Hawk Kites and look for excitement. This adventure company is a way to get into outdoor sports like stand-up paddleboarding, hang gliding, and kite flying.
Kitty Hawk Kites is one of the best places on the East Coast to go hang gliding because it offers classes. Tandem flights with experienced teachers are available for beginners, so anyone can enjoy this thrilling activity.
Take a class to learn how to hang glide if you want to do something adventurous that you will never forget.
302 W Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
5. Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
One of the best things to do in Nags Head for nature lovers and birdwatchers is to visit the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is only 22 minutes away.
This 5,834-acre refuge was created in 1938 and is home to more than 370 species of birds. It is a safe place for winter birds like the greater snow goose and other migratory ducks, as well as shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, and neotropical migrants.
It also gives vulnerable species like loggerhead sea turtles a place to live and protects them.
The natural trails and boardwalks that run through the refuge let people get close to the different plants and animals that live there. Birds of prey, waterfowl, and hawks should be seen.
14500 North Carolina Hwy 12, Rodanthe, NC 27968 United States
6. Wright Brothers National Memorial
That is less than 10 minutes from Nags Head. The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must-see near Nags Head.
This historic site marks the spot where the famous Wright Brothers made the first successful and long-lasting heavier-than-air flight in 1903. A 60-foot-tall granite memorial was built in the area to honor the Wright brothers’ work.
There is also a National Park with well-kept grounds marked with big and small markers that show where successful takeoffs and landings have happened. The park also has a tourist center and a group of museums and exhibits that celebrate flights from the last 100 years and beyond.
One of the interesting things to do near Nags Head, North Carolina, is to take a trip in the afternoon to see the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 USA
7. Fishing Charters
Nags Head is famous for its great fishing, and there’s no better way to explore it than by taking a fishing charter.
These trips are a great way to catch a wide range of fish, no matter how experienced you are as an angler. The cruise can take you out to sea for deep-sea fishing, where you can catch big fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi.
Interestingly, a lot of boats offer trips that are good for families. This is a great chance to show kids how much fun fishing can be.
8. Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve
The Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve is one of the biggest remaining maritime forests on the East Coast. It’s a fun thing for nature lovers to do in Nags Head.
This 1,400-acre ecological preserve protects a wide range of unique environments, such as ponds between dunes, marshes, wetlands, and forested dunes.
The network of trails that wind through the woods can be explored by visitors. These paths are great for watching birds and other animals.
701 Ocean Acres Drive, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 USA
9. Jennette’s Pier
Jennette’s Pier is one of the most popular places to visit in Nags Head. It was built in 1939 and is the oldest fishing pier on the Outer Banks. When it comes to length, Jennette’s Pier is the largest in the Outer Banks at 1000 feet.
The pier is a great place to go fishing and take in the view. There are a lot of fun things for the whole family to do at the Pier House, including meeting rooms, a snack bar, a tackle shop, several large aquariums, and a few educational shows.
7223 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
10. Full Throttle Speedway
Go-karting at Full Throttle Speedway is a fun thing to do in Nags Head that the whole family will enjoy.
This go-kart track has two exciting lines where up to 20 gas-powered, Indy-style go-karts can race at the same time. They also have a Super Sea Track where young drivers can show what they can do.
In addition to races, this place serves a wide range of food at the track, such as ice cream, snowballs, cotton candy, and more.
6504 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
11. Jurassic Putt
One fun thing to do in Nags Head, NC, with kids is to check out Jurassic Putt. This dinosaur-themed mini-golf course is fun for both kids and adults.
In the shadow of T-Rex and Raptor dinosaurs, this building has an 18-hole mini-golf course. It also has a tropical setting and a fun way to play putt-putt.
There is something for everyone at Jurassic Putt, whether you want to be competitive or just want to have fun with your family.
The address is 6926 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
12. Dowdy Park
In Nags Head, Dowdy Park is a famous place to relax, play, and have fun with your family.
Dowdy Park is 5 acres and has a fitness walk, an amphitheater, a playground for all kids, basketball and pickleball courts, a bocce ball court, a farmer’s market, and fitness classes.
From June to October, there is a farmer’s market in the park every second Thursday of the month.
3005 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
13. Seaside Art Gallery
One special thing for art lovers to do in Nags Head, NC is to check out the Seaside Art Gallery. This art center has been around since 1961 and shows off the best artists from North Carolina and around the world.
The Seaside Art Gallery is known as one of the biggest privately owned galleries in the Southeast. It has 12 rooms filled with original fine art from artists all over the world.
The gallery has groups of paintings, animation art, etchings, sculptures, and the Old Master. The paintings, animation art, etchings, sculptures, and the Old Master are all set up in a way that makes each piece look great.
2716 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
14. The Lost Colony
One fun thing to do at night near Nags Head, NC, is to go to The Lost Colony and step back in time to learn about the past of the Outer Banks. It’s only 20 minutes away.
This outdoor play and drama has been going on since 1937. It is about the first English colony in America and how it mysteriously disappeared. The play is put on at the Waterside Theatre on Roanoke Island, which makes the historical experience more real.
At the Waterside Theatre’s tourist center, you can look at the displays and interactive exhibits.
1409 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954 USA
15. Nags Head Golf Links
Nags Head Golf Links is a championship private 18-hole golf course that opened in 1986 and is easily located in Outer Banks, North Carolina.
This golf course, which was created by Bob Moore, is fun for both experienced and new players. The Bermuda fields and carefully mowed greens go well with the scenery and stay in good playing shape all year.
The club has a beautiful 6,126-yard Par 71 championship course and a beautiful building with a full-service restaurant and bar. It is rated as one of the best public golf courses in the Outer Banks.
This weekend, you should visit the Nags Head Golf Links in Valdosta, GA.
5615 S Seachase Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
16. First Flight Adventure Park
One of the many fun things to do outside in Nags Head is to go on an unusual trip at First Flight trip Park. This action park is made to suit thrill-seekers of all ages and skill levels.
There are more than 50 challenges and 14 ziplines that go up to 50 feet in the air at this park. The platforms are set up on utility poles, and the obstacles are made to look like things you might find at the beach, with ropes, wires, wood, barrels, stir-ups, and hammocks.
From the top, you can see the ocean, the sound, and the swamp all at once. Some guides can look after hikers and make sure everyone stays safe.
The address is 6716 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
17. OBX Bowling
At OBX Bowling, you can play exciting games tonight, which is a fun thing to do in Nags Head, NC. This family fun is a dream come true for both kids and adults.
OBX Bowling has a lot of lanes for both amateur bowlers and serious league players. The bowling lanes for kids have bumpers that go up and down on their own.
There are different types of bowling at the entertainment center, such as open bowling and club bowling for kids and adults. It also has a pool hall and an arcade with Skeeball and air hockey games.
Beyond the lanes, OBX Bowling has a bar where you and your family can get something to drink.
200 W Satterfield Landing Road, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
18. Tanger Outlets Nags Head
It’s nice to go shopping at Tanger Outlets Nag Head in Nags Head, North Carolina.
There are a lot of brand-name and designer outlet shops in this mall chain. The mall has many stores, such as American Eagle Outfitters, Aerie, Carter’s Babies and Kids, Talbots, Gap Factory Store, Michael Kors, Sperry, and JCrew.
In addition to stores, the shops have places to eat, so people can refuel while they shop.
The address is 7100 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
19. Causeway Watersports
Want to do something fun in the water in Nags Head? Then go to Causeway Watersports and enjoy the rush of parasailing or riding a waverunner over the beautiful water of the Outer Banks.
This company rents boats and gives tours and rentals for jet skis, pontoon boats, tubing, dolphin tours, and scenic tours. See the beautiful Outer Banks coastline and well-known spots from above.
During your trip, you can do things like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, cruising on a boat, and going on tours to see dolphins and other wildlife.
Nags Head, NC 27959, USA; 7649 S Virginia Dare Trail
Are you looking into other things to do in North Carolina? There are fun things to do in Fayetteville, NC, and Murphy, NC.
20. Nags Head Fishing Pier
One of the most important places to see in Nags Head is the Nags Head Fishing Pier. Nags Head Fishing Pier is one of the longest and oldest piers on the Outer Banks. It’s a great place to fish and enjoy the view of the ocean.
While you’re there, throw your line into the Atlantic and try to catch different kinds of fish.
You can also take a stroll along the pier and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean, or you can eat fresh fish and enjoy the view at Fish Heads Bar & Grill, which is located on the pier.
Nags Head, NC 27959, USA, 3335 S Virginia Dare Trail
21. R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10
One sweet thing for couples to do in Nags Head, NC is to see their favorite movie at the R/C Kill Devil Hills Movies 10. It’s only a 10-minute drive from Nags Head.
This theater is the only one along the Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head stretch of the beach. There are several screens, digital projection, rocking chairs, a game room, and some movies are shown in 3D digital projection.
Check their movie times before going to the theater and spend a few hours with your family watching the newest big hit.
1803 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 USA
22. OB-Xscape Rooms
A thrilling, immersive, and difficult trip at OB-Xscape Rooms is one of many fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, with family and friends.
Family and friends can use their teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun and immersive way in the OB-Xscape Rooms, which are dynamic and very exciting.
Out of the ten rooms, each one has a different theme, which makes the experience great.
Cell Block 4 Death Row, Cold Case Murder of Dawn Renee, Raptor Revenge, Rest In Peace Motel, Blind Tiger Speakeasy, Mutiny on the Lark, Meltdown, Escape the Lost Pyramid, Medusa: Beyond Medusa’s Gate, and Huxley Save the Future are some of the escape rooms that you can choose from.
The business is located at 1 Ocean Blvd Suite 108-111, Southern Shores, NC 27949, USA.
23. Roanoke Island Festival Park
The Roanoke Island Festival Park is a popular place to visit near Nags Head, NC. It is in Roanoke, North Carolina.
English people tried to settle here for the first time in 1585 at this 25-acre interactive historic place. The park has a re-created sailing ship from the 1600s, live history actors, a museum, and many performing and visual arts.
Besides the many attractions, the park also has a theater where many shows happen and a pavilion where events are held.
Address: 1 Festival Park, Manteo, NC 27954 USA
24. Dare County Library
You can do more than just check out books at the Dare County Library. It’s a neighborhood hub with activities for people of all ages.
This library has branches in Manteo, Hatteras, and Kill Devil Hills. It has a large collection of books, e-books, podcasts, newspapers, magazines, collections in Spanish for kids and adults, and places to meet.
There are also events for families, storytimes, and fun programs for people of all ages at the library, making it a great place for everyone.
700 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954 USA
25. Elizabethan Gardens
The Elizabethan Gardens, which are part of the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and are in Manteo, NC, are a beautiful place for couples to visit near Duck, NC.
The gardens, which are ten acres of beautiful plants and sculptures in honor of Sir Walter Raleigh’s lost colonists, were built to entertain Queen Elizabeth I while she was queen.
The grounds have many flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year, well-kept shrubs and trees, beautiful Renaissance sculptures, and other features that are uniquely Elizabethan.
1411 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954 USA
26. Jumpmasters Trampoline Park
The Jumpmaster Trampoline Park is a fun family activity that is less than 15 minutes from Nags Head, North Carolina. People can have fun and try new things there. There are lots of fun things to do here for families, kids, and groups of all kinds.
There is a ninja fighter course, a battle beam, a pugil stick, a 3D climbing wall, an airbag, and trampoline zones at this indoor trampoline park.
If you want to get better at throwing an axe, this entertainment park also has OBX Axe Throwing, which is much fun.
You can have fun at Jumpmaster Trampoline Park, but it’s also a great spot for birthday parties, family get-togethers, team parties, and other events.
728 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954, USA
27. OBX Laser Tag
OBX Laser Tag is a fun place for kids to go in Nags Head to have an exciting journey. Everyone of any age can have fun at this top-notch laser tag field on the Outer Banks.
This entertainment center has high-tech adventures that you can connect with. People can play air hockey or one of the many video games, such as pinball, redemption games, shooting games, driving adventures, and more.
OBX Laser Tag is also a great place for birthday parties, parties, and group trips with food and cake.
2420 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
28. Nags Head Town Park
Nags Head Town Park is a great place for families to get together because it is tucked away in the trees and has lots of room for all sorts of events.
Toys for kids can play on the playground, there is a lunch shelter with bathrooms and a grill, and there is open grass for soccer or frisbee.
Calling the town manager’s office to make an appointment is the only way to use the park for your event.
415 Health Center Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
29. OBX Horseback
A thrilling horseback ride at OBX Horseback is one of the fun things to do in Nags Head, NC, during the summer.
This horseback riding business specializes in organized rides on the beach. With this adventure, you and your friends and family can enjoy a lovely, laid-back ride on the beach.
As you ride along the beach, take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic. This could be the most enjoyable part of your trip.
Nags Head, NC 27959, at the corner of Bodie Island Light House Road and NC-12
30. H2OBX Waterpark
One fun thing to do with your family close to Nags Head is to check out the H2OBX Waterpark, which is less than 30 minutes away. This water park is great for families because it has fun things for both kids and adults.
This fun place for the whole family has lots of exciting water rides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that will keep you entertained for hours.
The water park has more OBX views and places to visit besides the splash zones. You can shop at Wright Stuff Retail and eat at Outer Banks Eats.
8526 Caratoke Hwy, Powells Point, NC 27966 USA
31. Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf
Book a tee time at Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf for another fun thing to do outside in Nags Head. This 18-hole miniature golf course is set up along the sound and is great for people of all kinds.
A day of fun and excitement awaits you at this pirate-themed miniature golf course. It has a playground, ice cream, and drinks as well.
Don’t forget to buy something to remember Munity Bay at the gift shop.
The address is 6704 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
32. Whalebone Park
Whalebone Park, which is across the street from Jennette’s Pier, is the last fun thing to do in Nags Head.
There is a playground for kids, a pirate ship, picnic tables with shade, bocce, and volleyball courts in this park with a nautical theme.
Do something fun with your family at this beautiful park instead of at the beach.
The address is 7300 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA.
Get ready for your trip to Nags Head, North Carolina.
Nags Head, North Carolina, has lots of things to do for people of all kinds. You can find something that suits your tastes in this charming beach town, whether you want to relax, have fun, or do a bit of both.