Rain won't ruin your OBX getaway. From aquariums and trampoline parks to cozy spas, escape rooms, and family arcades, the Outer Banks has plenty of indoor adventures to keep the fun going, no matter the forecast.
Vacationing in the mountains of Colorado or along the sunny beaches of North Carolina and Florida, rainy days are never ideal. But they do happen, and being prepared is the best way to make the most of your time.
Heading to the Outer Banks soon? This stunning chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina offers plenty of fun rainy-day activities for the whole family when the weather doesn't cooperate. Whether you're marveling at sea creatures in an aquarium, playing high-tech games in an arcade, or relaxing in a spa, you'll find plenty of ways to escape the rain and make the most of your vacation.
Here's a bite-sized intro to the good stuff:
- North Carolina Aquarium (Manteo): Explore interactive exhibits and get close to stingrays.
- Jumpmasters (Manteo): Bounce, climb, and play at the Outer Banks' first trampoline park.
- OB-Xscape Rooms (Southern Shores): Test your teamwork and wits in themed escape rooms.
- OBX Bowling (Nags Head): Strike up some fun with modern bowling lanes and arcade games.
- Turf's Up (Kitty Hawk): Try your hand at virtual golf and sports simulators.
- Scarborough Lane Shoppes (Duck): Browse charming boutiques, local finds, and grab gourmet treats.
- Spas & Wellness Centers (OBX-wide): Recharge at top spots like AQUA Spa or Outer Banks Salt Cave.
- Chill in Your Vacation Rental: Enjoy a cozy day in with family games and home-cooked meals.
Dreaming of an OBX getaway? Village Realty has been matching beach lovers with the perfect vacation homes for over 25 years. We offer an extensive selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals tailored to meet every need and desire. From stunning oceanfront properties and cozy condos to pet-friendly and newly listed rentals, our diverse portfolio ensures you find the perfect home away from home.
Craving more insider tips? As experts in everything OBX, our destination blog is loaded with fishing tips, the best outdoor adventures, can't-miss foodie finds, and more.
In this blog post, I've rounded up some of the best rainy-day activities in the OBX to help you make the most of your time and enjoy every second of this North Carolina paradise.
Ready? Let's dive right in, and don't let the rain stop the fun!
1. North Carolina Aquarium, Manteo
Get close to some incredible creatures.
Rainy days don't mean you can't have contact with nature. A visit to the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island will not only make for a fantastic activity on a rainy day but also give you the chance to get close to some incredible creatures.
Housing over 2,000 animals, one of the aquarium's highlights is the close encounters, which allow visitors of all ages to interact with stingrays, horseshoe crabs, white-spotted bamboo sharks, sea urchins, sea stars, and hermit crabs, to name a few. The aquarium also features interactive exhibits highlighting various animals and a fantastic shark tank, where a replica of a famous Civil War ironclad takes center stage.
2. Jumpmasters, Manteo
A wide variety of activities for everyone to exercise, stay healthy, and have fun.
This over 14,000 square feet indoor playground is not only home to trampolines but also a place where you can engage in many other activities like dodgeball, ninja warrior courses, foam pits, battle beams, a climbing wall, ax-throwing, and much more.
You and your family will certainly forget about time while having fun, exercising, and bringing out your competitive side. Adding to the fun, there's also an arcade and an ice cream stand that kids love.
3. OB-Xscape Rooms, Southern Shores
Seven different interactive escape rooms varying in storytelling and levels of difficulty.
Looking for something more thrilling? Escape rooms offer the ultimate exciting experience on a rainy day. With their immersive storytelling, hidden elements, and surprises, they are designed for team building and enjoyable problem-solving.
OB-Xscape Rooms in Southern Shores feature seven different interactive escape rooms varying in storytelling and levels of difficulty. Each room is well-designed with incredible props and clues.
Some games even provide special clothes for you to dress up in and immerse yourself even more in the story. If you are traveling with your entire family, you can form a group and have a private experience that will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip.
4. OBX Bowling, Nags Head
Enjoy 24 state-of-the-art bowling lanes equipped with an interactive system.
Bowling is always a fun activity! Located in Nags Head, OBX Bowling is another great alternative for rainy days.
Their 24 state-of-the-art bowling lanes are equipped with an interactive system that adds to the fun. You can customize layouts, take selfies to display with your name, and even chat with other lanes using emojis.
Besides bowling, kids also love their arcade filled with amazing games. While you play, you can order pizzas and beverages from their bar, listen to great music, and the extremely friendly staff will also take care of every detail to make your visit unforgettable.
5. Turf's Up Outer Banks, Kitty Hawk
Indoor entertainment venue features world-class, custom-designed HD sports simulators.
Turf's Up ranks high for family fun. This indoor entertainment venue features world-class, custom-designed HD sports simulators, giving sports enthusiasts the chance to enjoy their favorite games even when it's raining.
There are over 90 virtual golf courses you can play, and you can even get golf lessons from an in-house golf professional. If golf is not your thing, there are also over 10 other sports games you can choose from, such as baseball, football, hockey, carnival games, soccer, and zombie dodgeball. Everything is very realistic, and if you are with energetic kids, they'll have a blast!
You can also order snacks and beverages from their bar. They even offer beer on tap, wine, and sangria for the adults.
6. Scarborough Lane Shoppes, Duck
A charming retail complex boasts a delightful array of boutiques and restaurants.
For nearly 30 years, Scarborough Lane has been the go-to shopping spot in the heart of Duck, NC. This charming retail complex boasts a delightful array of boutiques and restaurants, ensuring a relaxed and exceptional shopping experience for both locals and visitors year-round.
Connected by covered porches, the boutiques offer a diverse range of treasures to explore, including local favorites like Confetti Clothing, Ocean Treasures, The Mystic Jewel, October Jae Boutique, and Finest Flotsam for unique vintage finds.
Indulge your taste buds with unique snacks to take home from OBX Popcorn Shop, where choosing just one favorite flavor can be a challenge, or visit Ella's Olive for gourmet treats such as Bloody Mary mixes, honey, homemade jams, olives, and flavored infused olive oils.
When it's time to refuel, there are several dining spots where you can recharge your energy. Plus, Scarborough Lane hosts exciting events featuring art and music from time to time, making the shopping experience even more memorable.
7. Unwind and recharge with a day of wellness in the Outer Banks
Plenty of spas and wellness centers where you can recharge your energy and leave rejuvenated.
You don't necessarily need to go to the beach to relax and unwind. When the weather is not ideal for chilling on the Outer Banks' stunning beaches, the region has plenty of spas and wellness centers where you can recharge your energy and leave rejuvenated.
Here's a quick guide to some of the best spas and wellness centers in the Outer Banks:
- Eden Day Spa & Salon, Corolla: services include hot stone deep tissue massages.
- AQUA Spa, Duck: This is one of the most popular spas in the Outer Banks, offering treatments and a wide variety of massages, from facial and hangover recovery massages to aromatherapy, manicures, and pedicures.
- Outer Banks Salt Cave, Kitty Hawk: Try a holistic wellness treatment at Salt Cave featuring halotherapy, Reiki treatment, and much more.
- Island Acupuncture and Massage, Kill Devil Hills: They specialize in Traditional Chinese Medicine; you'll find services like therapeutic massage, acupuncture, aromatherapy, cupping, and dry needling.
8. Chill in and enjoy a cozy corner of your vacation rental
Play board and card games, cook a delicious meal, and spend quality time with your loved ones.
There are several alternatives to enjoying the Outer Banks even if it's raining and you can't engage in outdoor activities. However, sometimes it's a good idea to stay inside and enjoy quality time with your family.
Traveling is also a great opportunity to create memorable moments with loved ones, and you don't need to be constantly on the move to have enjoyable experiences. Spending time in your vacation rental during a rainy day allows you to have excellent family time playing board and card games or cooking a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy together. With the right amenities, your vacation rental can be the stage for lots of fun and unforgettable moments.
Extra tip: What about turning your vacation rental into a spa? Outer Banks Massage Therapy offers in-home massage sessions if you don't want to travel to a physical location on a rainy day. They travel to Corolla, Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head, bringing a relaxing experience to where you are.
Wondering where to stay in the Outer Banks, NC?
The secret to a great OBX getaway? Finding the perfect place to stay. With Village Realty OBX, you'll have your pick of vacation rentals that keep you close to the beach, the fun, and everything in between.
Our rentals range from oceanfront homes with stunning views to cozy cottages perfect for families or couples. Many properties include amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and fully equipped kitchens, ensuring your stay is as relaxing as it is adventurous.
Booking with Village Realty means you can focus on enjoying everything this North Carolina treasure has to offer while resting easy in a home tailored to your needs. Start your journey by choosing the perfect rental for your outdoor getaway today!