There is something special about the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Its breathtaking beaches, serene sunsets, historical architecture, and local flora and fauna offer a unique experience that you cannot find anywhere else. While people talk a lot about the pristine beaches and the iconic ocean sunrises, the nightlife on the Outer Banks is often less discussed.
If you are planning to visit the Outer Banks and have booked your stay at one of the many amazing Oceanfront OBX rentals, soundside rentals, or in one of the towns, you will have easy access to some of the liveliest pubs and bars, evening-only attractions, and more. Once the sun goes down, you can discover a whole new side of the Outer Banks. Here are some of the popular nighttime activities on the Outer Banks that you can enjoy during your stay.
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Live Music and Karaoke
If you are looking for budget-friendly tourist destinations in the USA, the Outer Banks should be on your list. Most towns on the Outer Banks, including Corolla, Nags Head, Kill Devil Hills, Ocracoke, and Hatteras Island, have a karaoke bar nearby. Several restaurants turn into karaoke bars after dark. If there is a singer in your group, he/she can easily become a star on these karaoke stages.
There are also plenty of opportunities to hear professional singers on the Outer Banks. Large restaurants like Kelly’s, Port O’ Call Restaurant, and the Outer Banks Brewing Station host band performances. You can enjoy live performances of cover bands, jazz artists, folk musicians, and more while having your dinner at your preferred restaurant.
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The Lost Colony
This is the biggest live show on the Outer Banks. Written by Pulitzer-prize-winning playwright Paul Green, the Lost Colony is the longest-running outdoor drama in the US. If you are staying on the OBX, you need to witness this spectacle performed by a company of over 100 professional actors and dancers.
The drama generally runs every night from Memorial Day until Labor Day. You can book tickets for the show in advance online. This family-friendly outdoor extravaganza is loved by people of all age groups. The well-choreographed fight scenes, coordinated dance performances, and fascinating true story make for an experience of a lifetime.
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Sports Bar
There are several local restaurants and bars on the Outer Banks where you can enjoy live broadcasts of games like football, basketball, soccer, baseball, and more. If you are visiting the OBX while your favorite team takes on their rivals, you can head to any one of these sports bars and start cheering on your team with your fellow supporters.
Many establishments even have separate bar or lounge areas with several big-screen TVs and special menus on game days. Most local sports bars also have dart boards, pool tables, and even sporting tournaments for visitors who want something more than just watching a game. One of the most popular and oldest establishments in Ocracoke, Howards Pub has a separate outdoor gaming area, ideal for late-night visitors.
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Pier Fishing:
Apart from enjoying different pubs, restaurants, and live shows, you can also experience some natural nighttime fun on the OBX. Most piers along the Outer Banks remain open until midnight in the summer. You can enjoy these local piers by paying a minimal fee for a full-day fishing access pass, which covers nighttime as well, or a non-fishing access, which will cost less.
Most of these piers have convenience stores that stay open late where you can get snacks and drinks. These piers are great for a romantic moonlight stroll with your partner as you soak in the radiant moonlit view of the ocean.
Conclusion
After a long day out exploring, you may want to spend the evening relaxing. The nighttime activities on the Outer Banks are meant exactly for that. You can relax at a restaurant while enjoying live music or a game, witness an outdoor show, or have a relaxing moonlit walk on the pier looking out at the ocean. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be a perfect OBX evening!
