Sometimes we need a romantic weekend or a weekend spent with girlfriends catching up on all that’s happening in our lives. While it’s fun to spend all the time chatting or whatever, sometimes we want to have a short excursion into the area. If you are not sure what to do in the Outer Banks, I’ve got five suggestions featuring local artisans that guarantee a fun afternoon. For those of us who enjoy browsing through local artisans, stop by the Pea Island Art Gallery. The entire shop is filled with one of a kind handicrafts; pottery, paintings, locally made soaps and my personal favorite, these adorable ceramic mason jar herb markers. The stock is ever changing, depending on what the artisans decide to make, and features a range of price points from low end to high end. You can take a virtual tour of their studio here.
If you are craving adventure, Real Watersports is the place to go. Founded by Trip Forman and Matt Nuzzo, named as two of the “Top 10 Most Influential People in the History of Kiteboarding” by Kiteboarding Magazine, this is the number one kiteboarding and surfing shop, lesson center and destination in the world. Real features everything you need for an adventure vacation, from an upscale resort, onsite restaurant and kiteboarding lessons, including a “Zero to Hero” package that helps people who have never kiteboarded before become self-sufficient. If you just want to spend a relaxing afternoon, stop by their restaurant, The Waterman’s Grill, for a wrap or burger.
One of my favorite activities we indulged in during our stay was a visit to Studio 12, located in Avon. Carolyn and Gary, the owners, develop a line of glass fusion works, pottery, jewelry and paintings. They also offer classes allowing people to make their own glass ornaments, bowls and more. After tracing a wave onto a circle of glass, we used small pieces of colored glass to develop our own ornament. Once we had our ornament designed, it was ready for the firing process and then to be shipped to our home. I can’t wait for mine to arrive. This is a perfect rainy day, hands on kids or girl’s day out activity. Be sure to check out her online shop for Christmas gifts.
If you can’t get enough pottery, Red Drum Pottery in Frisco has everything you need. Their cute art gallery fills four rooms and is lead free, has non toxic glazes and is microwave and dishwasher safe. They also have the Red Drum Theater with banjo music!
For the 21 and older crowd, don’t miss the tour of Outer Banks Distilling located in Manteo. Featuring a tasting of Kill Devil Rum and some out of this world bourbon balls, this distillery was started in February 2015. The company began with a group of four friends with a history of brewing and bartending. One of the owners walked us through the distilling process and explained how the rum got its name. Because this rum is produced in small batches, it is easier to see all the steps taken. When the tour and tasting is over, you can visit the gift shop to purchase a bottle of the rum or the rum balls.
Do you have a favorite place to visit on The Outer Banks?
I’ve never been here but now I want to visit! I love cute little shops and galleries like that
OH I love the pics, looks very fun! I would love to take a weekend getaway there!
I haven’t been but you do make it sound enticing. I love to travel to places that are new to me.
I haven’t visited the Outer Banks in years, but I’d love to go back sometime! I’ll be sure to make a stop at Studio 12. I love painting pottery!!!
I loved that rum. Oh my gosh, I loved it. Did I mention I loved it? Actually I enjoyed everything — great vacation spot!
Wow, that is such a great idea for getting away!
I have a few girlfriend weekends coming up. As a single parent it is hard to even find the “me” time.
These all sound like great idea. I would love to visit the Outer Banks.
I love finding out about places to visit on the weekend to just get away for a little while. These are some great ideas for doing so.
Oh wow what a lovely sounding place to visit – I would love to visit the Pottery studio, they are always great. x
Oh, no, I focused on one art gallery to mention and then discovered I couldn’t stand to not mention how delightful the others sound, as well. I think I’d cover everything, taking an early afternoon break at Real Watersports and then continue on.
I could shop til I drop, then relax, all in one place. What a gorgeous setting too – must get to the Outer Banks soon!
I have always wanted to travel with my family to the Outerbanks! I really have to start planning a trip! Your pics are great!!