Part of this post was sponsored by Outer Banks West KOA. All thoughts and recommendations are entirely my own.
It’s that time of year again when we find ourselves looking for ways to stretch out the last days of summer. But we also find ourselves embracing the cooler temperatures and all things autumn. The leaves are changing colour, harvest season fruit are aplenty and the temperatures are perfect for getting outdoors and exploring! We recently spent a long weekend in Currituck County in eastern North Carolina during a ‘staycation’ near home. Read on for our recommendations to make the most of a fall weekend in Currituck NC.
Stay in a Waterfront Cabin
First things first, you’ll need to find a place to stay for the weekend, and at this time of year, the weather is perfect to spend some time outdoors! If you’re looking for comfortable accomodations for your fall weekend in Currituck, look no further than these awesome cabins at Outer Banks West KOA. You can camp in style (also known as “glamping”) in these cozy, two bedroom cabins. Complete with an open concept kitchen and living space, each cabin also features a screened in porch, deck, fire pit and a charcoal grill. All of this while overlooking Currituck Sound. Who doesn’t want to wake up to views like these?
Located at the end of a long, winding road, these waterfront cabins are remotely located, providing ample peace and quite. Outer Banks West KOA also offers tent camping and RV sites, but the cabins are a perfect fit for your fall weekend in Currituck NC. The campground has plenty of amenities available including a playground, dog park, bounce pad, and a small store with the essentials. They host various events throughout the year and have golf carts, kayaks and paddle boards available to rent as well. During our stay, in early October, they hosted a wine tasting courtesy of Sanctuary Vineyards, craft fair and some live music at night. All of this, within a 20-minute drive from most of the following attractions.
Indulge in Some Local Eats
If this is your first time visiting North Carolina, you should know that they take their BBQ very seriously. It just so happens that one of our favourite BBQ spots is right here in Currituck! There is nothing we have tried here that we don’t love, but our favourite is the burnt ends, thank me later 😉
“BBQ was “discovered” in North Carolina in the late 16th century by Sir Walter Raleigh. In 1585, Raleigh sent men to the coast of present-day North Carolina. While there, John White… witnessed the Croatans using a “barbacoa”, a framework of sticks that supported meat over a fire… using the contraption to smoke their meat.”
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library (cmlibrary.org)
As you’ll find yourself within an hour’s drive from the Atlantic ocean, seafood should also be on your list! Whether you are looking to buy some seafood to cook up while staying local, or to bring back home, Frog Island Seafood is a great stop. They’ve got everything from fresh crabs and clams. inshore to offshore fish, right down to the seasonings. Or you can just pop in for a bite!
Then, there’s Cindy’s Kitchen. This unassuming fuel station is actually host to a selection of Cindy’s Kitchen offerings. What’s the most layers you’ve ever had in a cake? Do you think you can manage 12? If so, you’ll want to make a stop inside the gas bar in Barco, NC.
If you’re looking for a proper sit down meal or just an adult beverage with a view, Coinjock Marina is also nearby.
Take a Day Trip to Knotts Island
There is a free car ferry that makes regular daily runs between Currituck and Knotts Island. The trip across the sound takes about 45 minutes and is a nice leisurely ride that you can enjoy from the comfort of your vehicle or walking around the boat deck. We took the 9 AM ferry from Currituck to Knotts Island to line up with Martin Farm opening at 10AM. As we landed on the island a little early, we made a stop at the Knotts Island Market for a coffee and a butter rum muffin. They have a selection of essentials, as well as a deli, and you can fuel up your car here as well.
As we headed back to the ferry, we made a quick stop at the ‘Bonney Bright & The Nguyen Family Perfect Wisdom and Great Compassion Zen Garden’. This unique stop features a beautiful property that is worth a couple minutes of your time.
Support a Local Farmer
There are a surprising number of farm stands in Currituck County, many of which are located along the highway. These roadside markets are generally hard to miss, from their overall size, and advertisements leading up to their locations. The local, seasonal flavours and offerings are a great addition to a fall weekend in Currituck NC.
Spend a Day at the Beach!
If you’ve made it this far, why not make the extra half hour drive to the Outer Banks proper. Depending on what part of autumn you decide to make this trek, you may still get some beautiful weather that will allow you to spend some time soaking in the warm sun. If the weather isn’t promising enough to pull up a seat on the sand, you can spend the afternoon on an Outer Banks scavenger hunt with your family.
Other Unique Attractions
Looking for some more family friendly attractions? These unique businesses will keep you and your party entertained and provide you with an experience that will keep you telling stories about your fall weekend in Currituck NC.
Flippers Arcade – This one of a kind gas station has a full arcade on site, complete with pinballs machines along with several other arcade games.
Diggers Dungeon – If anyone in your party is into monster trucks, then you’ll definitely want to make a stop here. This is the home of the famous Grave Digger itself. Catch a glimpse of these epic trucks in person and peruse some merchandise. You can even take a ride in a monster truck! Check their Facebook page for the most up to date hours.
McHorney’s Odditorium – This historic museum is the “blink and you’ll miss it”. type of place. We aren’t quite sure what their hours are but they host events throughout the year. At various times, they open their strange doors to the public. You’ll want to visit their Facebook page for upcoming events.
Where is your favourite place to travel in fall?
