In your eagerness to reach the beach, you may have kept your eyes straight ahead and not noticed the numerous attractions in the surrounding areas. The Outer Banks can serve as a "base camp," enabling you to easily explore all that is offered nearby, from historic sites to nature sanctuaries to autumn festivals that offer a glimpse into the lives of a small Southern town. Following are some exciting adventures you may wish to take while visiting the Outer Banks, each within a few hours' drive.