Top 4 Must-Visit Stops in Kill Devil Hills, Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina, known as OBX, has long been on my travel bucket list. Last week, I finally explored this stunning destination, which spans about 100 miles of shoreline, encompassing several towns and villages. We based ourselves in Kill Devil Hills— a town with a captivating name rooted in local legend.   Legend tells of a fisherman named Dan, weary of poverty, who struck a deal with the devil for an endless bag of gold in exchange for his soul. They agreed to meet on a hill, but Dan tricked him by digging a quicksand pit covered with leaves. When the devil fell in, Dan sealed the hole and declared, "I have killed the devil!" The townsfolk named the spot Kill Devil Hills accordingly.   While the tale seems fanciful, the Outer Banks' history of pirates, shipwrecks, and battles lends it plausibility.

 

1. Wright Brothers National Memorial

Our first stop, before even checking into our hotel, was the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills (often associated with nearby Kitty Hawk).   The Visitors Center features engaging exhibits on Orville and Wilbur Wright's achievements, a replica of their historic 1903 aircraft, and a well-stocked gift shop. Through the windows, view marker stones for their four flights on December 17, 1903. The final flight lasted 59 seconds, covering 852 feet—the first powered, heavier-than-air manned flight. A bronze sculpture commemorates the moment; follow the road around the monument for a closer look.

 

 

2. Sunrise Views and Comfort at Shutters on the Banks

Beach houses dominate the Outer Banks landscape along the highway, with no high-rise condos in sight. Shutters on the Banks offers the closest access to the Atlantic Ocean, separated only by massive sand dunes.

Our room provided comfortable accommodations with WiFi, cable TV, ample hot water, and prime views for breathtaking sunrises.

3. Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Visiting the beach in a month with an "r" called for fresh oysters—raw, of course. Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar, just a mile from our hotel, delivered. The menu offered oysters by the dozen, half-peck (40 oysters), or peck. We savored a half-peck, a true delight.

 

 

4. Kill Devil Hills Co-op Art Gallery and Studios

I love discovering local art while traveling. This co-op showcases works from 50 artists, as listed on their website. I sought sea glass jewelry by Pem Bryant (interview forthcoming), but all pieces were exceptional. Several of Pem's creations—and a few others—came home with me.