From retracing centuries-old stories at a historic site in the morning and catching waves by afternoon — OBX delivers something special for every generation. All that's left to do? Pack your bags and dive in.
There's no denying it: the Outer Banks is tailor-made for big, multigenerational family getaways. This coastal stretch is packed with historic landmarks, thrilling outdoor activities, and one-of-a-kind experiences that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Whether you're tracing the footsteps of aviation pioneers, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, or chasing a little adrenaline on the water, OBX brings the magic to every moment.
Here's what we'll cover in this blog post:
- Discover History & Hands-On Learning
- Dive into Outdoor Activities & Beachside Fun
- Add a Dash of Adrenaline to Your Family Fun
- Find the Perfect Stay for Your Multigenerational Getaway
At Village Realty, we're your OBX pros! If you're searching for vacation homes, we've got you covered — and that's just the beginning.
From insider fishing tips to outdoor adventures and local food recommendations, we know the Outer Banks inside and out. For more ideas and inspiration, check out our blog!
Here's a quick guide to planning a multigenerational trip to OBX, the highlights — and why they're a hit with both kids and adults:
1. Discover History & Hands-On Learning
Wright Brothers National Memorial (Kitty Hawk)
Why Visit: This iconic site commemorates the first successful powered flight by the Wright brothers. It's a must for families who enjoy history, science, and wide-open spaces.
Why Kids Love It: They can run along the flight paths, climb on outdoor displays, and complete the Junior Ranger badge program.
Why Adults Love It: The interactive museum and scenic overlook offer a fascinating glimpse into aviation history — and plenty of photo ops.
Highlights:
- A full-sized replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer and hands-on exhibits.
- Junior Ranger Program for young explorers.
- Open spaces for play and discovery.
Practical Info: Admission is $10 for adults, and free for children under 15. Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission days throughout the year.
Roanoke Island Festival Park (Manteo)
Why Visit: Step into the world of America's first English settlers with engaging exhibits and re-enactments.
Why Kids Love It: Swabbing the deck and steering the ship alongside costumed crew members makes them feel like real adventurers.
Why Adults Love It: The blend of living history and cultural exhibits brings the story of the Lost Colony to life in a meaningful, memorable way.
Highlights:
- Aboard the Elizabeth II, a full-scale sailing ship replica.
- Adventure Museum with interactive exhibits on shipwrecks, Native culture, and more.
- Guided tours and overnight learning opportunities.
Practical Info: Admission is $11 for adults, $8 for children under 18, free for kids under 2. Tickets valid for two consecutive days.
North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
Why Visit: This family favorite lets you explore OBX's marine life up close—perfect for rainy days or quiet afternoons.
Why Kids Love It: Touch tanks, stingrays, and sea turtle rehab centers feel like a real-life aquarium adventure.
Why Adults Love It: Thoughtful exhibits and conservation stories inspire and educate without overwhelming.
Highlights:
- Touch tanks and interactive displays.
- Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center.
- Special seasonal events like shark feedings.
Practical Info: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: $10.95–$12.95. Kids under 2 enter free.
2. Dive into Outdoor Activities & Beachside Fun
Beach Days
The Outer Banks beaches are made for classic family fun, with space to roam and waves to play in.
Why Kids Love It: Sandcastles, wave jumping, and endless space to run.
Why Adults Love It: It's the ultimate unwind — soft sand, ocean breezes, and room to relax while the kids stay happily occupied. What more could you ask for?
Highlights:
- Sand games like cornhole, frisbee, and paddle ball.
- Boogie boarding and skimboarding.
- Sandcastle building with tools from local beach shops.
Jockey's Ridge State Park (Nags Head)
Why Visit: With the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast, this park is equal parts scenic and exhilarating.
Why Kids Love It: Dune rolling, kite flying, and wide-open adventure.
Why Adults Love It: Spectacular sunsets, a chance to try hang gliding, and tranquil hiking trails through unique ecosystems.
Highlights:
- Sandboarding and beginner hang gliding lessons.
- Prime kite-flying terrain.
- Ranger-led walks about dune formation and history.
Wild Horse Tours (Corolla)
Seeing wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs in their natural beach habitat is a signature OBX experience.
Why Kids Love It: Spotting wild horses up close feels like a real-life treasure hunt.
Why Adults Love It: A scenic, guided off-road drive paired with wildlife and local history.
Highlights:
- Two-hour guided beach safaris.
- Insightful narration on OBX history and ecology.
Practical Info: Tours run year-round, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Private group options available.
Here are two top-rated Wild Horse Tour providers in OBX:
3. Add a Dash of Adrenaline to Your Family Fun
Mini Golf & Go-Karts
These classic attractions offer light-hearted fun and a little healthy competition for all ages.
Why Kids Love It: Whimsical themes, colorful props, and the thrill of the race.
Why Adults Love It: A playful break from sightseeing—and the chance to reclaim mini golf glory.
Top Spots:
- Mutiny Bay Adventure Golf: Pirate-themed with water features.
- Professor Hacker's Lost Treasure Golf: Adventure-inspired and full of surprises.
- Paradise Fun Park: Includes mini golf, go-karts, batting cages, and arcades.
H2OBX Waterpark (Powell's Point)
Why Visit: An all-ages favorite, this waterpark is perfect for both action-packed days and lazy riverside lounging.
Why Kids Love It: Splash zones, winding slides, and water playgrounds.
Why Adults Love It: Plenty of shaded seating, relaxing rides, and something for everyone in the group.
Highlights:
- Calico Jack's Cove: Splash zone for younger kids.
- Sand Pail Beach: Toddler-friendly slides and water games.
Practical Info: Open seasonally from May. Check the website for up-to-date hours and ticket details.
Kitty Hawk Kites Adventures
Why Visit: This OBX staple invites families to try something new — from flying kites to flying high over dunes.
Why Kids Love It: Colorful kites, summer games, and hands-on fun.
Why Adults Love It: A chance to check off bucket-list activities like hang gliding in a safe, welcoming setting.
Highlights:
- Hang gliding at Jockey's Ridge.
- Kiteboarding and kite flying across OBX.
Practical Info: Summer "Kids Days" feature crafts, games, and demos across multiple OBX locations.
4. Find the Perfect Stay for Your Multigenerational Getaway
Part of what makes a multigenerational trip so special is simply spending time together. And for that, short-term rentals are ideal. They offer a homey, relaxed atmosphere that hotel rooms just can't match — plus, plenty of space for everyone to spread out or retreat for a little quiet time.
Here are three top picks in OBX to get you started — but be sure to check out our website for many more!
Go Your Own Wave, Nags Head
8 bedrooms | 8 full, 2 half baths
This thoughtfully designed home offers the best of both worlds — quiet corners to unwind and spacious common areas to come together. Eight master bedrooms, each with a private bath, ensure comfort and privacy for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents.
An elevator provides easy access to every level, making it especially convenient for elderly guests or anyone with mobility challenges.
Well-Equipped Kitchen & Dining
The open-concept great room flows effortlessly onto the oceanview deck through retractable glass doors — ideal for group meals, games, or sunset conversations.
A well-equipped kitchen with two refrigerators and multiple dining areas, including a cozy breakfast nook with a fireplace, makes cooking and gathering feel effortless.
Entertainment for All Ages
Whether it's movie nights in the theater room, game time in the rec room, or relaxing in the private pool and hot tub, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
The elevator simplifies moving in and out, while seasonal cabana service means less to carry and more time to relax by the ocean.
Bring your crew, your sunscreen, and your appetite — just maybe leave the Monopoly board at home if your family gets too competitive.
Salt Shaker, Nags Head
7 bedrooms | 7 full, 1 half baths
Salt Shaker is a semi-oceanfront haven designed for extended families and multigenerational groups to truly unwind. With six en-suite bedrooms and a layout that blends shared living with private retreats, everyone — from early risers to afternoon nappers — can settle into their own rhythm.
Room to Gather, Space to Recharge
The great room offers plenty of space for storytelling, card games, or just soaking in the views. The well-stocked kitchen with a double oven and dining for 14 keeps meals easy, whether you're hosting Thanksgiving or just Tuesday tacos.
Entertainment Comes Built-In
Pool table? Check. Foosball? Absolutely. A full arcade, theater room, and a heated private pool and hot tub? Yes, yes, and yes. Plus, there's cabana service during the summer—no hauling beach chairs here.
Easy Access, Ideal Location
With a beach access just across the street and top OBX landmarks minutes away, Salt Shaker is equal parts retreat and launch pad.
Your only challenge? Convincing everyone to leave the house long enough to catch the sunset.
Greenwaves III, Kill Devil Hills
12 bedrooms | 10 full, 1 half baths
Gather the whole family — yes, even your cousin's cousin. With over 7,000 square feet of living space and 12 bedrooms, Greenwaves III is built for big multigenerational get-togethers. It's oceanfront, elevator-equipped, and fully stocked with everything you need to make those family memories a little easier to create (and a lot more fun).
Ocean Views & Room to Breathe
The top-level great room features oversized windows and opens directly onto the oceanfront deck. Perfect for morning coffee, late-night chats, or simply admiring the horizon. One of the three top-floor primary suites includes handicap-friendly features, and the elevator ensures every floor is accessible for guests of all ages.
Designed for Togetherness
The kitchen makes meal prep for a crowd simple with two fridges, double ovens, and dual dishwashers. There's even a second kitchenette and wet bar on the mid-level—ideal for snacks, drinks, and keeping the peace.
Endless Entertainment
Kids, teens, and grown-ups alike will love the pool table, foosball, rec room, and private pool with kiddie pool and hot tub. A private walkway leads directly to the beach, complete with a dune-top gazebo for front-row sunrises.
Central & Convenient
Located at Milepost 8, you're minutes from OBX favorites like the Wright Brothers Memorial, local seafood spots, mini golf, and shopping.
It's the kind of house where one wing is doing cannonballs and the other is deep in board games — and both are having the best day ever.
Make The Most of Your Outer Banks Vacation
Booking your stay with Village Realty means staying in one of our exceptional pet-friendly homes. and condo rentals.
Our number one priority? Your ultimate comfort and happiness. Our local staff will always go the extra mile to make sure you and your family have a special vacation on OBX.