The Outer Banks are synonymous with beauty that extends beyond the waves and dunes. The area also has a dynamic arts scene, including creative art shops, vibrant murals, and its renowned Gallery Row, a Nags Head district including multiple distinctive galleries and businesses. Ready for some awesome local art? Use this guide to take in the area’s must-see artistic experiences.
Marvelous Murals
The Outer Banks includes around 20 murals spread across a whopping 70 miles — almost a dozen of which are located along the main drag on Croatan Highway. Standouts include:
Ben Franklin Sea Life
Arguably the Outer Banks’ most famous mural, painter Rob Snyder’s piece showcases the area’s underwater creatures on the Ben Franklin building in Nags Head.
Butterfly Wings
This whimsical, multi-panel mural on the Kitty Hawk Super Wings store, painted by Buxton artist Kennedy Fletcher, makes for an especially popular spot for selfies.
Reclaimed Wave
Part mural, part sculpture, creator Will Morgan’s piece on the Seagreen Gallery in Nags Head features recycled license plates and vintage street reflectors.
Great America XVIII. Achieving the Impossible
Local artist Sam Welty’s mammoth mural along the Super Wings on N. Croatan Hwy. in Kitty Hawk pays homage to the pioneering Wright Brothers’ historic aviation achievements. Pro tip: you can park in the adjoining Wings’ parking lot.
Gallery Row & More
Seaside Art Gallery
Open since 1969, Seaside Art Gallery is the Outer Banks’ OG gallery. The expansive 12-room gallery features 2000+ original works of art from both local and globally known artists. You can also explore a vast selection of antiques, estate jewelry, and animation art.
Seagreen Art Gallery
Whether you want repurposed pieces, local or global art, antiques, trinkets, or souvenirs, you’ll find all that and more at Seagreen Art Gallery. Don’t miss the lovely gardens out back filled with art and driftwood pieces for sale. Note: there’s a second, smaller — though equally eclectic — gallery in Duck.
Glenn Eure’s Ghost Fleet Gallery
Located in a building that resembles a Quonset hut, this art shop has been in business since 1983. It offers a plethora of original artworks in mediums including mixed media, sculptural oil canvases, water color, paintings, collagraphs, drawings, and woodblock prints. Keep an eye out for exhibits by local artists.
Blue Pelican Gallery
Looking for one of a kind treasure? Hit up Blue Pelican, which has offered guests unique finds, ranging from ceramics, jewelry, photography, candles, cards, and much more since opening in 2006. It also features a yarn shop with a dazzling array of yarns, needles, and hooks for fiber arts. With a diverse and constantly changing inventory, you never know what you’ll find there.
SeaDragon and Yellowhouse Gallery
A shopper’s paradise, this gallery is located along the scenic Duck Soundside Boardwalk. It specializes in local and American art and photography. Here, you can peruse glass and pottery pieces, soaps, clocks, and jewelry.
Dare County Arts Council
Located in a lovely historic courthouse, this must-visit spot not only boasts two rotating exhibition rooms, but a great selection of local paintings, jewelry, sculpture, pottery, and glass.
Silver Bonsai Gallery
A true gem in Manteo, Silver Bonsai Gallery beautifully blends fine art, custom jewelry, and the serene art of bonsai, making it a must-visit haven for creativity on the Outer Banks.
Manteo 101
This spot is a cozy, light-filled space where local artists and makers come together, offering a thoughtfully curated mix of handcrafted goods, artwork, and unique finds right in the heart of downtown.
Swell Ceramics
Swell Ceramics brings the beauty of coastal living to life through handcrafted pottery, offering timeless, functional pieces inspired by the rhythms of the Outer Banks.
Pea Island Art Gallery
Nestled in a charming historic home, Pea Island Art Gallery showcases an inspiring collection of local and regional artwork, making it a beloved stop for creative treasures on Hatteras Island.
Red Drum Pottery
At Red Drum Pottery, you’ll find beautiful, handcrafted ceramics alongside a vibrant mix of local art, music, and coastal charm — all in one welcoming space on Hatteras Island.
Creative Art Shops, Classes & More
Want to do a little shopping — or maybe even make some art of your own? There are plenty of places to get your creative juices flowing. We’ve even mapped out a three-day visit for the ultimate arts & culture experience on the Outer Banks. Browse this exciting itinerary and scroll through a full list of art shops and galleries for inspiration. Start planning your creative adventure to the OBX today!
