There are amazing things to do and see all across North Carolina. While you're here, you can check out a variety of parks, historical attractions, live performances, restaurants, shops, and other awesome activities. At the center of the action, you'll find North Carolina's many charming main streets. The Outer Banks happen to boast some of the best main streets in the state!
In May, WorldAtlas released their list of the eight best main streets in the Outer Banks. The towns that made the list offer charming architecture, vibrant local culture, artisanal shops, cute cafes, and more. Next time you visit the Outer Banks, you have to check out some of these hot spots! The top main streets are in...
Rodanthe
Rodanthe is a tiny town "tucked away at the northernmost edge of Hatteras Island." It is famous as the setting of Nicholas Sparks' book Nights In Rodanthe. Downtown features "a cluster of fabulous, oceanfront mansions, a famous fishing pier, a gorgeous beach, and whistling waves."
Duck
In charming Duck, you'll find "a delightful array of family-owned shops—where the shopping experience is more intimate and personal." The boardwalk is the center of all of the action. Here, you'll find stunning sunset views, stellar shops, and delicious food.
Nags Head
"Nags Head is famous for its beautiful, oceanfront rentals, its inviting restaurants serving delicacies that often leave taste buds running wild, and of course, its famous beach." Downtown is walkable and fun! You'll love walking along the beautiful pier, which hosts a gift shop, a coffee shop, and a small aquarium.
Manteo
"Whether it is the beautiful red-brick houses, the green lawns in between — and in front of the buildings, the trees that line the streets, or the open-front restaurants, Manteo’s downstreet is hands-down one of the most gorgeous in North Carolina." The uncrowded, walkable downtown area has lots to offer to visitors!
Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk's downtown area features a "delightful array of oceanfront vacation rentals, classy restaurants, quaint stores, and other shopping options." This town is famous for their history, but you'll also love their food and beaches.
Ocracoke
"This gem of a town is nestled between Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean — on the island with which it shares a name." Ocracoke, which was the hideout of Edward Teach (better known as Blackbeard!), is full of pirate-themed spots and is an absolute blast to explore.
Kill Devil Hills
Kill Devil Hills is, by population, the largest town in the Outer Banks. It is popular with foodies and historians alike! Downtown, you'll find "many restaurants, some of which are fascinatingly quirky—and brim with character" and references to local aviation history.
Avon
Avon is home to "a mix of the new and the old." It is a busy but small town to explore. "Avon’s downtown is also home to many inviting restaurants, gift shops, and a fishing pier."
You can read more here: https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/these-towns-in-the-outer-banks-have-the-best-main-streets.html
Which Outer Banks city has your favorite main street? Tell us in the comments!
