Yes, your wedding is the main attraction of the weekend, but out-of-town guests who are spending more than just one night in town will have some extra time on their hands. Tell them about the best the Outer Banks has to offer. Not sure? Here’s our local guide for each common guest type.
For Your College Crew
Mad Jack Comedy & Magic
This adult comedy show plays year round on the Outer Banks. The magic of Mad Jack has been described as twisted, bizarre, but oh, so funny! A mix of comedy, stunts and magic will make this a memorable event for your guests. But remember, this is an adults only show! Tickets are $20. Mad Jack Comedy & Magic, (252) 489-9219, ObXtremeMagic.com
Wild Horse Adventure Tours
A Wild Horse Adventure Tour is perfect for guests who love the fresh, salty sea air, history, and ecology in Corolla. For a little more than two hours, they’ll ride in either a modern Suburban or a customized open-top vehicle for an up-close view of the area’s most pristine beaches and wildlife. Tour prices vary, depending on the season, and gas is included. Wild Horse Adventure Tours, (252) 489-2020, WildHorseTour.com
For the Ones Who Still Pinch Your Cheeks
Ocracoke Island
Take a ferry to this remote island to see one of the oldest operating lighthouses in America. Ocracoke Island is only accessible by air or sea, but worth the short journey. The area is rich with history, including tales of when the pirate, Blackbeard, once roamed the shore. Check out the British Cemetery or walk down historic Howard Street to get a glimpse back in time. Ocracoke Island, OcracokeVillage.com
Wright Brothers National Memorial
History buffs will love the visitor center at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, which is open five days a week during regular business hours. The Memorial itself is accessible seven days a week. Guests will see a full-scale replica of the Wright Brothers’ glider and flying machine, built in the early 1900s. Wright Brothers National Memorial, Manteo, (252) 441-2111, NPS.gov/wrbr
For the Couples
KD H Cooperative
From jewelry made out of objects from the beach to eco-inspired art, you’ll find a creative collection of 50 local artists in Kill Devil Hills. Check out their work or share a fun experience creating your own art! Various classes are held for both children and adults—visit their website for schedules and prices. KDH Cooperative, (252) 441-9888, KDHCooperative.com
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Snuggle up to your sweetie on Hatteras Island while touring the 208-foot brick tower that has warned sailors of the treacherous Diamond Shoals for more than 100 years. The lighthouse is one of the most commonly painted and photographed North Carolina landmarks. After your tour, duck out to one of the trails for some quiet time alone. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Hatteras-nc.com/light
For the PG Crowd
Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
Admittance is free to this massive interpretive center located on the grounds of Currituck Heritage Park in Corolla. It’s a great spot for families to explore the history and ecological diversity of North Carolina. Guests can get an up-close look at a rich variety of native fish, housed in the 8,000-gallon aquarium on site. Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education, (252) 453-0221, NCPaws.org/reservations/corolla/welcome.aspx
Army Corps of Engineers Field Research Facility
Guests will learn about waves, tides and coastal dynamics at this coastal laboratory. Summer tours are free of charge and very educational. Learn how scientists measure the waves and check out some cool vehicles and tools. But a word of warning—this is an hour tour along a sand trail, so wear appropriate shoes! Army Corps of Engineers Field Research Facility, (252) 261-6840 ext. 221, FRF.USACE.army.mil/frf.shtml
The Lost Colony
See the nation’s longest-running symphonic drama in Manteo. The Lost Colony premiered in 1937 and has since been seen by millions. The story, written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, celebrates the lives of the first English colonies on Roanoke Island. Tickets range between $10 and $22. The Lost Colony, (252) 473-3414, TheLostColony.org
-- Carrie Chambers