North Carolina – The Virginia Hype Girl| Virginia Foodie, Lifestyle and Travel Blogger

Camping on the Outer Banks: Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a waterfront campsite close to the action in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but still quiet enough to relax I recommend checking out the Refuge Campground in Wanchese, North Carolina on Roanoke Island. The 15 back in style campsites at Refuge are located directly on water. These nightly rentals are part of a larger campground community that has yearly residents/owners. This was our first trip of the year camping and we were at Refuge during the off season (March) so there were not a lot of people moving about.

Refuge Campground Roanoke Island, North Carolina

The campground at Refuge has beautiful walkways around the water, areas to fish (catch and release), a seasonal pool, picnic area and a climate controlled bathhouse. Next door to Refuge is a convenience store with fuel, basic foods and camping essentials. The campground and facilities were very clean and the camp host was friendly.

Rainbow over Refuge Campground in Manteo, North Carolina

The wifi was pretty slow, so if that is important bring your own hotspot. The tv channels we picked up from our antenna were also, limited in this area so bring a dish or a DVD player. Most importantly though for us there were many things within a short drive from the campground to do and see.

Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Festival Park, Roanoke Island, North Carolina — History is alive in Manteo, North Carolina

Not far up the road to the right from the campground is the quaint town of Manteo, North Carolina famous for the wonderful outdoor drama the Lost Colony. If you’re a nature lover definitely take time to visit the beautiful Elizabethan Gardens on the picturesque sound of Roanoke Island while you’re in town. There is plenty for the history buffs too like visiting Festival Park to see a replica Elizabeth II ship and historical artifacts from the area.

While you’re in the area consider a visit the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island to see some cool ocean life and a ship wreck where an immersed model of the the SS Monitor is in one of their exhibits. The North Carolina Aquariums are one of my favorite places to visit and two are on the Outer Banks area.

Bodie Lighthouse girl in Lilly Pulitzer — Bodie Lighthouse

The Bodie Lighthouse is nearby over the Washington Baum Bridge and then right on rt12 toward the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Here you’ll find one of my favorite North Carolina beaches Coquina beach and another camping spot Oregon Inlet Campground. If you’re into fishing you can book a fishing charter out of Oregon Inlet (across from the OI campground).

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Flying over the OBX in a small plane with just your family is a vacation memory you’ll be sure to treasure!

If you’re looking to explore I highly suggest booking a flight over the islands through OBX Air Planes which is at the Manteo Airport right behind the North Carolina Aquarium. You’ll definitely get a better appreciation for how the beautiful outer banks is laid out and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few shipwrecks and maybe even some dolphins. There is just something extra special about flying over the Wright Brother’s memorial area knowing it is the site of the birth of flight itself! If flying isn’t your thing you can also, choose to drive to the Wright Brother’s Memorial and walk the grounds on foot.

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

go 4x4 in the obx — Renting a 4×4 vehicle or brining your own to drive on the beach is definitely a memorable experience.

For a day trip I suggest visiting the quaint town of Duck, the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or even go see the wild horses of Corolla on a horse adventure or hop on an atv and ride the dunes. Some areas of the Outer Banks allow you to get an off road permit to drive your own 4×4 vehicle on the beach or you can rent one while you’re at the beach and have a unique driving experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro!

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

Not that you will, but if you get tired of the beach and like water fun you can also, drive north to check out the new H2OBX water park too while you’re in town. H2OBX has plenty to offer for the whole family from a huge lazy river, water rides the whole family can fit on, single and double tubing rides, delicious food and fun apparel shopping. From sitting back in a lounge chair and watching everyone else, to speeding down tubes into the warm blue water or eating fish tacos and enjoying a watermelon milkshake you’ll find it all at H2OBX. Spending a day at H2OBX definitely is a great addition to any trip to the beach.

Go for a Walk or Run

Besides the tourist attractions get out and go for a run or walk on the beach or the many other places to venture. Walking on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge is a local favorite. Visiting the Nags Head Woods Preserve is another great place to go for a run or walk. There are several well marked trails to follow including one that goes out to the Roanoke Sound and a picture perfect skeleton tree beach.

Trails 4/5 goes by small ruins of an old homestead and has a family graveyard with some graves dating back to the 1800s. The area seemed safe and we saw both families and single runners out on the trails. The area was very peaceful and filled with birds and wildlife. The visitor center had trail maps and area information and I would recommend going there first.

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

The area near the campground Wanchese, North Carolina is known for seafood and has several areas in season to buy fresh fish and seafood. Another place to buy fresh seafood is few miles over the Washington Baum Bridge at Sugar Shack Fish Market Oyster Bar and Grill. North Carolina shrimp purchased fresh from the Sugar Shack Fish Market are hard to beat in the OBX!

Cooking up fresh, local seafood at your campsite makes a wonderful addition to any beach camping experience. The Sugar Shack also, will steam and cook your seafood for you and has an extensive menu for takeout and dine in. There are too many great restaurants in the area to name here. I suggest exploring the area and trying new places. Avoid chain restaurants while on vacation and get something you can’t get at home.

captain george’s outer banks seafood girl in lilly pulitzer

In the near by towns of Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills you will also, find many stores and restaurants to choose from as well as plenty of shopping. If you’re looking for some of the freshest all you can eat seafood in the OBX give Captain George’s a try. This is a local favorite for all you can eat seafood and includes crab legs on the buffet.

Another one of my favorites located in Kill Devil, North Carolina is Mama Kwan’s Tiki Bar & Grill. I love the island vibe and all the tropical inspired dishes. They have a excellent drink menu too with many of their drinks coming in unique take home cups (they can make non alcoholic too). Visiting here always gets me in a vacation mood.

Back on Roanoke Island you will find that it is home to many restaurants and shops too. After dinner I recommend a stop at Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo. The scuppernong grape is native to North Carolina and has a delicious sweet taste and fragrance. If you love wine do yourself a favor and go try some scuppernong wine while you are in the area.

Scuppernong Vineyards in the shops of Downtown Manteo, North Carolina

From wild horses, the birth of flight, fresh seafood and breathtaking beaches the the area surrounding the Refuge Campground doesn’t disappoint. Camping near the water was a big perk of this campground and the close proximity to everything we wanted to see. I would highly recommend camping here on a trip to the OBX!

Beautiful sunset in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

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A Visit to Jennette’s Pier Nags Head, North Carolina

March 16, 2022March 1, 2023 thevirginiahypegirl

Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, North Carolina is really a unique and interesting site to check out when visiting the Outer Banks. The original pier was built in 1939 and had to be rebuilt in 2011 after a hurricane. The 1000 feet long concrete fishing pier offers numerous informative signs talking about the rich history of the pier and fishing in the Outer Banks.

Inside the building at the pier there are a couple of tanks with fish on display and information about them. A walk on the pier is only $2 for adults and $1 for children (free to North Carolina Aquarium members with card). Even if you’re not interested in visiting the pier to fish it is worth it for the views. The pier also, has a North Carolina Aquarium gift shop with some items themed for Jennette’s Pier. I personally love their vintage pier post cards.

Fishing from the pier is $14 for adults and $7 for children and includes a one day admission. Other options are available for multiple days and annual passes. A NC fishing license isn’t required in addition to this fee to fish from the pier as the fee covers a person for the paid period (on the pier only). Information on different types of fish that can be caught as well as citation information can be obtained from the visitor’s desk.

One of the coolest features of this North Carolina Aquarium location is the public beach access and free parking! Jennette’s Pier Piet also, offers Summer Camps and learning experiences for schools (including free programs for Title 1 schools) and children. In addition the pier has is a beautiful rentable venue for events, special occasions and weddings. Jennette’s Pier is definitely a place you’ll want to visit on your next trip to the OBX.

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

A reminder of how plastic is causing many issues for ocean life. Say no to the straw! (Please note as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small percentage from qualifying purchases of the reusable straws linked, which helps me cover the costs for this blog.)

I appreciate that the North Carolina aquariums contribute a lot of their resources to conservation and research. Plastic is causing many issues for ocean life. We can all do our part to reduce, recycle and reuse! Considering buying a reusable straw or skipping one all together. Each little part can add up to something big. I personally carry one of these straws on my wallet and use it almost everyday.

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

**Please, say no to plastic straws! (**Please note as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small percentage from qualifying purchases of the reusable straws linked, which helps me cover the costs for this blog.)

I want to do what I can to protect the ocean for generations to come. Saying no to plastic straws has become a personal motto of mine. I’ve seen first hand how many pieces of trash and plastic wash up on our beaches and float in the water. I’m always picking up trash on the beach and wish people would be more mindful. Please do your part to keep our oceans clean and our animals healthy.

If you’re interested in more information about the Outer Banks check out my article Camping on the OBX which includes a lot of interesting area information as well as information on the Oregon Inlet Campground and Visit a North Carolina Aquarium which includes a full listing of all the North Carolina Aquarium sites.

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

6 Reasons You Need to Visit the Crystal Coast of North Carolina

January 26, 2022March 4, 2023 thevirginiahypegirl

The green waters of Emerald Isle, North Carolina are alluring. This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission at no charge to you.

The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is known for being a beautiful vacation spot with areas of emerald green waters, delicious fresh seafood and a variety of activities. The historic home lined streets of Beaufort, North Carolina and the tales of pirate’s treasure have lured me south of Virginia many times.

There is so much to do and see in the 11 distinct communities that make up the Crystal Coast which begins below Okracoke, North Carolina. I will highlight six things I believe make the area unique enough to make you want to visit. I know every time I visit I always find new things to do and see.

Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

Southern Salt Seafood Morehead City, North Carolina — Give my oysters and beer any day of the year (or in this case a peanut butter and jelly cocktail)!

If you’re in the Morehead City area of North Carolina I recommend checking out one of my favorite Morehead City, North Carolina restaurants Southern Salt Seafood. At this restaurant they serve up Bekah’s Bay Oysters and the owner of this oyster company is a true girl boss. These oysters are some of the best I’ve ever had and they keep me coming back to Southern Salt Seafood Company every time we are near Morehead City, North Carolina. The drinks are also, always tasty and unique.

Mia Thai at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

Crab dip and pita chips at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina — Mia Thai at Moonrakers Beaufort, North Carolina

There are many different restaurants on Front Street to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina as well. One of our favorites is Moonrakers which offers roof top dinning, a bar and a notable wine list. According to the front of the menu the restaurant is named for, “a square sail flown immediately above a skysail on the royal masts of a square rigged sailing ship”. The menu is full of delicious seafood dishes and unique local favorites. The service was great and the drinks are just as delicious as the meal.

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

After dinner in Beaufort, North Carolina I recommend walking around Front Street and looking at some of the beautiful historic homes that line the street. If your interested in learning more about the history of Beaufort, North Carolina and some ghostly fun taking a ghost tour might be interesting. I have been on the Beaufort Ghost Walk and enjoyed the stories that were told especially about the Old Cemetery.

Borden House 1768 Beaufort, North Carolina — Historic Home Beaufort, North Carolina

One of my favorite places to visit in Beaufort, North Carolina is the Old Cemetery. I have to walk through it every time I’m in town. I’m not morbid, but this cemetery dates back to the 1700s and has so many stories to tell. A list of the note worthy gravesite can be found online or on paper in a small box attached to the graveyard fence. Tours Companies in Beaufort offer up guided tours of the cemetery and ghost tours that include spooky tales of those entombed in the Old Cemetery or you can grab a paper guide from the box and look around at your own leisure.

Ferns growing on the trees at the Old Cemetery in Beaufort, North Carolina

My favorite grave is that of Captain John Hill (1817-1879) his grave reads: “The form that fills this silent grave Once tossed on ocean’s rolling wave, But in a port securely fast,He’s dropped his anchor here at last.” Some of the old grave stones are quite thought provoking and interesting. The ferns that grow on the trees within the Old Cemetery add to its charm.

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

The marina in Beaufort, North Carolina has much to offer for water activities and tours.

If you enjoy getting out on the water Beaufort, North Carolina also, has a lot to offer for water activities. A simple walk down to the marina on Front Street and you can find a variety of boats ready to take tourist on tours, pirate cruises, fishing charters and out to go shelling on Shackleford banks. I have personally used the Island Express Ferry system and had great service.

Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Take a private charter and go shelling or hang out with the locals — Wild horses on Carrot Island Beaufort, North Carolina

Across from the marina on Front Street if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the wild horses on Carrot Island. For a closer look at Taylor’s Creek and beautiful views of a crystal coast sunset I recommend taking a sunset cruise on the “WANDERER” with Captain Ron. Tales of buried pirate treasure while watching dolphins play made our trip to Beaufort very memorable.

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

If pirates are your forté I definitely recommend a trip to the North Carolina Maritime Museum. There is a lot of interesting information about the area and pirates like Blackbeard that stalked the waters off the Carolina’s. Blackbeard called Beaufort home. The museum had so many cool artifacts relating to Blackbeard and the Queen Anne’s Revenge which is located in the Beaufort Inlet off the Fort Macon State Park. This museum kept me busy reading and exploring for a couple hours.

Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

Queen Anne’s Revenge model inside the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina — Pirate statue at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort, North Carolina

If you’re not familiar with Blackbeard (Edward Teach) his former house which is known today as the Hammock House is also, located in Beaufort, North Carolina. It is the oldest house in Beaufort. The house sits off Hammock Lane and is a private residence. There is a plaque outside the home noting the historic significance.

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

When you explore the Crystal Coast of North Carolina the area of Atlantic Beach is worth a visit and offers many beautiful beach spots. This area also, is home to the Fort Macon State Park. The fort is a must see for Civil War enthusiasts and offers a lot of information relating the the war between the states.

Exploring the restored fort and going back in time is thought provoking. The views from the top of the fort are gorgeous and the beach area outside the fort is perfect for a beach walk. The exhibits both inside and out the fort, the guided tour and the musket/canon demonstration make this one of the places I would recommend visiting on a trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

A short drive from Beaufort is the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shore. This location has a very unique feature which is a replica of the U-352 German submarine. This submarine is very special because it is the first U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard. There is information about this submarine outside the display. This tank is very interesting to watch and often has divers inside to answer questions. I like that this tank has nurse, sand tiger and sandbar sharks along with other fish and a green sea turtle.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores — Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

Divers with in the shark tank. The replica of the *U-352* German submarine replica inside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores can be seen behind them.

In addition this aquarium also, has an area dedicated to loggerhead sea turtles and their journey. Seeing hatchlings that are being rehabilitated at the aquarium is a really cool experience. This exhibit also, offered information about helping efforts to save loggerhead turtles and to prevent pollution on our beaches. Plastic straws and plastic pollutants are especially deadly to these fragile creatures.

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

These are just a small sample of the many things that can be found on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. The historical sites are a reason to visit the Crystal Coast and see things you can’t see anywhere else. The delicious local seafood and the beautiful sunsets are a wonderful reason to want to stay for a day, weekend or week(s). Whatever you find to do on your visit to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina you won’t be disappointed and you will be sure to leave with many memories. I hope you’ll enjoy one or all of these things on your next trip to the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

Know someone planning a trip to North Carolina? Please share my article with them ☺️ and check out my other fun Take A Walk in My Flip Flops travel articles too. If you enjoyed my review please be sure to pin/share it and check out my other North Carolina related posts:

Camping in the Outer Bank, North Carolina Plus OBX Travel Tips

North Carolina Aquarium Tips

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Why You Should Visit a North Carolina Aquarium

January 10, 2022March 3, 2023 thevirginiahypegirl

Aquariums are perfect to visit no matter the season because of being climate controlled and no matter how many times I go.

Please note, this page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Winter is here and it is tempting to stay inside during the cold weather. There are plenty of places to get out though during the winter and keep warm at the same time. One of the places that I really enjoy to go visit is aquariums. Aquariums are perfect to visit no matter the season because of being climate controlled and no matter how many times I go (even to the same aquariums) there is always something different to see and do. As someone that has both scuba and snorkeled many places in the Caribbean, Mexico and abroad visiting an aquarium gives me a quick underwater fix.

Outside the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knolls Shore

There are four North Carolina Aquarium locations and even though I do not live in North Carolina I find myself in North Carolina quite a bit. North Carolina Aquariums are located on Roanoke Island (OBX), at Fort Fisher (Kure Beach near Wilmington, Nc), Pine Knoll Shores (Beaufort and Atlantic Beach area) and Jeanette’s Pier (OBX). All of the locations are in areas that also, have plenty of other things to do and see around them. It is easy to make a day trip, weekend getaway or week long vacation around visiting one of these aquariums.

North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

Out of the four North Carolina Aquariums I visit the Roanoke Island location the most because my husband and I visit the Outer Banks of Nc frequently. One of my favorite things about this location is the beautiful views of the Albemarle sound from the pier going out behind the aquarium. During certain times this location even has opportunities to fish and learn about crabbing from this pier.

Sea turtle rehabilitating at the North Carolina Aquarium

I also, like the Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center at the aquarium. Typically the area where the sea turtles are rehabilitating in can even be seen or walked through. Another cool feature of this aquarium is an interactive area that replicates what veterinarian and rehabilitation workers go through to help the turtles rehabilitate. I think this area is especially cool for children as it allows a hands on look at how rehabilitation efforts are done.

Learning about sea turtle rehabilitation and virtually checking my (plastic) turtle’s shark bite.

The interactive rehabilitation exhibit starts with picking out a (plastic) turtle from a bin and then taking it to different stations to find out what is wrong with it and to learn about how a turtle with that particular ailment would be rehabilitated. Hopefully an activity like this will encourage young minds to become curious about sea turtle rehabilitation and helping sea creatures. Sea turtles are one of my favorite sea animals because they are so majestic. Being able to see one up close can be very memorable.

A lion fish at the North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

This aquarium also, offers a touch tank which always seems to be a favorite of visitors. This Sea Senses area allows touching of stingrays and invertebrates. Like the sea turtle rehabilitation area I hope that allowing people to see sea creatures up close they are more likely to want to preserve and care about the ocean.

Shark tank at the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island featuring a replica of the

The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island has many beautiful exhibits of fish and an area with reptiles as well. One of the neatest exhibits unique to this location is the replica of the S.S. Monitor. This replica is submerged inside the shark tank and is very thought provoking to look at. For history buffs and lovers alike the Ironclad Sanctuary is a must see. The aquariums offers information on the history of the S.S. Monitor as well as other ships and wrecks in the Graveyard of the Atlantic exhibit.

From being able to get up close to sea turtles, seeing a replica of the S.S. Monitor and all the well designed fish displays the Roanoke Island location has a lot to offer. The Roanoke Island and the Outer Banks area in general has many things to do, some of which I featured in another travel post.

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Sand sculpture exhibit during the summer at Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium

Another location for the North Carolina Aquarium is at Pine Knoll Shore. This location also, has a very unique feature which is a replica of the U-352 German submarine. This submarine is very special because it is the first U-boat sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard. There is information about this submarine outside the display. This tank is very interesting to watch and often has divers inside to answer questions. I like that this tank has nurse, sand tiger and sandbar sharks along with other fish and a green sea turtle.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores is a close drive to Atlantic Beach, Fort Macon, Beaufort and Emerald Isle. If you have never been to this area of North Carolina I highly suggest a trip. It is an area of North Carolina I find myself going back to again and again.

North Carolina Aquarium-Fort Fisher

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fishers is in the Kure Beach area of North Carolina close to Wilmington. My favorite exhibit at this location is modeled off the Cape Fear Shoal and can be seen behind me in the picture above. I also, like that this aquarium location has both an upper and lower level. This North Carolina Aquarium location has a white alligator that was fascinating to see too. Luna, the white alligator is located inside the Cape Fear Conservatory exhibit along with snakes and other reptiles.

Luna, a white alligator at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher

The jelly fish exhibit at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher is one of my favorites as well. This exhibit is well lit and it is easy to capture detailed photos of the jellyfish even with a cellphone camera. I personally like using pictures of jellyfish as my background on my tablet and Apple Watch. Jellyfish always looks so peaceful and they remind me of my love of the water.

Jelly fish at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher

Puffer fish at the North Carolina Aquarium Fort Fisher

North Carolina Aquarium-Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head, NC)

The North Carolina Aquarium at Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, North Carolina is really a unique and interesting site to check out when visiting the Outer Banks. The original pier was built in 1939 and had to be rebuilt in 2011 after a hurricane. The 1000 feet long concrete fishing pier offers numerous informative signs talking about the rich history of the pier and fishing in the Outer Banks.

One of the coolest features of this North Carolina Aquarium location is the public beach access and free parking! Jennette’s Pier also, offers Summer Camps and learning experiences for schools (including free programs for Title 1 schools) and children. In addition the pier has is a beautiful rentable venue for events, special occasions and weddings.

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

In conclusion each of the North Carolina Aquarium locations is different and offer their own unique exhibits. Each location also, has its own gift shop with a nice collection of souvenirs, jewelry, books and plush animals. I am a big fan of the aquarium’s adopt a sea creature/animal program allowing guests to donate money towards specific sea creatures and symbolically adopting the animal. The aquarium has different donation levels and I think it can make the perfect gift for an animal lover.

One thing all the North Carolina Aquariums have in common is the commitment to preserving our oceans for generations to come. I highly recommend visiting any of these locations if you get a chance as well as becoming an Aquarium Society member. My husband and I decided to become members of the North Carolina Aquarium Society a couple of years ago and we have enjoyed all of the benefits that come with the membership. The work the North Carolina Aquarium does to rehabilitate and foster sea creatures and animals is very noteworthy and commendable.

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

Take A Walk in My Flip Flops:Travel Blog

Things to do in Cherokee, Maggie Valley, Gatlinburg and the Smokey Mountains

August 2, 2021April 16, 2023 thevirginiahypegirl

Things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina

The Oconaluftee River (behind me) in Cherokee is a beautiful area to visit and if you’re ever near the Smokies I suggest checking it out🏔

The Oconaluftee River in Cherokee is a beautiful area to visit and if you’re ever near the Smokies I suggest checking it out🏔The Oconaluftee area and trails have plenty of places to float/raft, fish and play. The river here is a place many families gather, especially the Oconoluftee Island Park. In the evenings or on the weekends many people can be seen playing in the water and enjoying family time together.

When I visit family we like to go to Oconaluftee Island and listen to stories from elders over a bonfire. Fun fact: Cherokee don’t have typical powwow type dances like you may have seen from other tribes or on tv, but instead hold stomps. Bonfire times and other special events can be found on the Visit Cherokee website.

Museum of the Cherokee

If you’re looking to see Native American artifacts and learn more about the history of the Cherokee tribe I highly suggest checking out the Museum of the Cherokee. The layout of the museum is great and the exhibits are very interactive. The collection of Native American artifacts is impressive. The museum is also, within walking distance to many shops and food options.

Indian Village-Cherokee, North Carolina

There are many things to see and do in and around Cherokee, Nc. The peace and tranquillity of the Indian village alone is worth the drive.

If you’re looking to see the heart of the Cherokee people I would also, suggest visiting the Indian village. The village isn’t far up the mountain from the museum and has tours daily with Native American guides that explain the culture, history and way of life. The village also, has a walking trail and gardens to explore.

The internal flame is worth a walk down to the theater where the Unto these Hills takes place, but I highly recommend getting tickets to watch the performance too in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Combined tickets can be purchased that include multiple attractions such as the Unto these Hills drama. The theatrical interpretation of the journey of the Cherokee people is a must see. The internal flame in front of the theater is worth a walk down to the theater and I highly recommend getting tickets to watch the performance.

Visiting the Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park

The Great Smoky Mountain National park offers plenty to enjoy and some one of a kind photo opportunities and hiking experiences.

If you’re into hiking Cherokee has many beautiful trails. The Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park is also, a close drive from Cherokee and offers a plethora of trails and photo opportunities. Hiking part of the Appalachian trail is an unbeatable experience.

Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

As you drive from Cherokee, Nc to the Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park you will also, be close to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. From where I was staying in Cherokee it was only 37 miles to Gatlinburg. If you’re not familiar this area along with Pigeon Forge is a known tourist hotspot. It is a vacation destination in itself and has everything you can imagine in terms of entertainment, restaurants and shopping. During this trip I didn’t spend much time in Gatlinburg, but I have been there before several times with family.

Skylift Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers amazing views, plenty of chairs to sit, gift shop, concessios and areas to capture the perfect photos.

Skylift Park-Gatlinburg, Tennessee

One evening of the trip was dedicated to Gatlinburg. While there I wanted to revisit one of my favorite attractions and ride on the Skylift . This ride is a Gatlinburg icon and I remember riding on it as a child. I was excited to be able to finally check out the new partial glass bridge this trip as well. Tip:The Skylift Park allows multiple visits in a day with paid admission and it is the perfect spot to catch the sunset.

While at the Skylift park a storm came up and we stayed put there for a couple of hours. There is a gift shop, concession style restaurant and bar on top of the mountain. Along with the beautiful views there are plenty of chairs to sit and areas to capture the perfect photos. We decided to enjoy lunch there too and had pizza and beer with the mountain views. The concession area had fresh food and the bar staff were very friendly.

Sugarlands Distillery- Gatlinburg, Tennessee

One of the other activities I decided to do while in Gatlinburg was to visit Sugarlands. I enjoy a good drink and had heard so many positive things about this distillery. I am not a stranger to moonshine and grew up with a family that proudly made their own shine.

Watching programs like Moonshiners on the History channel peaked my interests in this topic as an adult. I was excited to be in Gatlinburg and to finally get to checkout Sugarlands for myself. Tasting tours are available for $5 and I tried 12 tiny samples of different varieties of their moonshine, plus a cream liqueur. Honestly it was all amazing!

The bar inside Sugarlands in Gatlinburg, Tennessee didn’t disappoint and their drinks were made with lots of shine and sass.

Sugarlands also, has a huge gift shop and after our tasting we purchased several types of shine to take home. The $5 tasting fee is knocked off a shine purchase too which was nice. There were several deals for a percent off certain items and a free item after 5 when we visited. We also, enjoyed some fun cocktails and live music in their bar behind the gift shop. Sugarlands was really a great way to spend our evening in Gatlinburg and a fun way to experience something different.

There is so much to do and see in this area of the Smoky Mountains from Cherokee, Maggie Valley, Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge anyone could make a multi week vacation out of it. There is something to appeal to everyone in the family too from history, water activities, food/drink and the outdoor lifestyle. I know I can’t wait to plan another trip back to the area.

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Things to Do in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

Tour the Outer Banks by Plane

Ride the Dunes or See Wild Horses in Corolla

Cool off at H2OBX Waterpark

Go for a Walk or Run

Where to Eat in the Outer Banks of North Carolina

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Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

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Amazing Locally Caught Seafood

History is Alive in Beaufort, North Carolina

Wild Horses, Pirates and Seashells

North Carolina Maritime Museum-Beaufort

Fort Macon State Park-Atlantic Beach, NC

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

Crystal Coast-Come for the history and stay for the sunset!

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North Carolina Aquarium-Roanoke Island

North Carolina Aquarium-Pine Knoll Shores

North Carolina Aquarium-Fort Fisher

North Carolina Aquarium-Jennette’s Pier (Nags Head, NC)

Do your part to help save the ocean! 🦈🦦🐬🐳🐠🐢

Save a sea turtle….say NO to plastic straws❤️🐢

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Things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina

Museum of the Cherokee

Indian Village-Cherokee, North Carolina

Visiting the Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park

Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Skylift Park-Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Sugarlands Distillery- Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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