Outer Banks Stop #5

Another fun place to stop if you're in the Outer Banks is Jockey's Ridge Crossing. I don't plan to shop when I'm on vacation, but this is a neat place to go if it's raining or if you want quality souvenirs.

Jockey's Ridge Crossing is home to 8 unique Outer Banks shops. Our favorites: The Fudgery, Outer Banks Bear Factory, and Kitty Hawk Kites.

At The Fudgery, you can get the best homemade fudge I've ever tasted. They sell it in blocks, and they run deals or have coupons in the tourist books which provide you with a free block after purchasing a certain amount (3, if I remember right). If you stop in, you can also sample their fudge for free. We always get extraordinary chocolate. This year we also took home chocolate peanut butter, cookies and cream, and chocolate marshmallow. The best thing about this fudge for travelers is that it doesn't need to be stored in a refrigerator and it won't melt. It easily made it home during the 11 1/2 hour drive and we enjoyed it once we returned--though we ate some while we were down South too. Their fudge stays good for up to four weeks. I just checked their website and you can place on order online. I might have to do that, because once a year isn't enough.

The Outer Banks Bear Factory allows your child to create her own unique stuffed animal. They stuff it, name it, clothe it and write up a birth certificate. My girls love going there each year and selecting a new one. This year, the Lil Diva (10) opted for a moose dressed as a cheerleader. The Lil Princess (8) picked up a new bear and made sure she was prepared for the rain with a pink jacket, cap and boots. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Outer-Banks-Bear-Factory/209215815767498

Don't let the name of Kitty Hawk Kites fool you. They sell way more than kites. They have experts on hand to help you with many Outer Banks adventures: Hang Gliding, Kiteboarding, Kayaking, Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Aero (bi-plane)Tours, Tandem Hang Gliding, Dolphin and Nature Tours, Sailing Cruises, Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) lessons, Wakeboarding, Segway Tours, and Corolla Wildhorse tours. They also have a large selection of gear, clothing, and souvenirs. This year, the Lil Diva bought matching bracelets for her and her best friend. I haven't been brave enough to try any of the adventures they offer, but the Lil Diva and Lil Princess would love to try their hands at hang gliding one day. The dunes over at Jockey's Ridge State Park are perfect.

In addition to these shops, you'll find Kitty Hawk Surf Co., Scoops Ice Cream Parlor, Life on a Sandbar and Hair Wraps, Outer Banks Old Time Photos, and Salty Paws Biscuits for animal lovers. Jockey's Ridge Crossing also plans special events throughout the year.