5 Outer Banks Historical Sites To Visit

The Outer Banks area is well known for its spectacular natural beauty. But did you know that the region is also rich in history? You can explore the world of the past to your heart’s content when you visit with us here along the North Carolina shores. Here’s a look at five of our most popular destinations.

1. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Museum

This is the tallest lighthouse in the United States, rising a majestic 208 feet above the landscape. Painted in alternating black and white stripes with a red base, this is a fully operational lighthouse with two powerful 1000 W lamps that are visible for more than 20 miles. The grounds also contain a visitor center, a two-floor museum, a nature trail, and a bookstore. Staff members post special events throughout the summer and at specific times during the rest of the year.

2. Frisco Native American Museum and Natural History Center

This unique facility pays tribute to the rich history of North Carolina’s coast-dwelling Native Americans. You’ll see ancient tools, instruments, and other artifacts of boundless historical significance. The well-stocked gift shop offers a variety of hand-made crafts fashioned by Native American artisans from around the country. There’s also a nature trail that leads visitors through acres of prime forest land.

3. Kill Devil Hills Historic Site

This is where brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved the first sustained, engine-powered heavier than air flight in human history. You’ll find a life-sized reproduction of the original Wright brother’s 1903 plane, an aviation museum, and a 60 foot high granite monument dedicated in 1932.

4. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Built to honor the memories of the 116 settlers who vanished centuries ago, this 513 acre park has a visitor center, nature trail, theater, and gift shops. In the summertime you can catch a performance of The Lost Colony, an outdoor drama that tells the story of the brave men, women, and children who disappeared from the area without a trace, leaving behind a mystery that baffles investigators to this day.

5. The Freedmen’s Colony of Roanoke Island

In 1862, while the Civil War was raging, the American government used Roanoke Island to establish a colony peopled by more than 3000 former slaves. Today you’ll find a commemorative park, a historical marker, and a wooded path that preserves the memory of this pioneering community.

After you spent a fun and relaxing day exploring the Outer Banks’ rich history, what could be better than having a comfortable, welcoming vacation home to return to? Call or email us today to find out more about our choice getaway properties.