Top 17 places to visit in Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is a coastal city known for its long stretches of sandy shores and family-friendly atmosphere. Developed in the mid-20th century, this area features popular attractions like the Cherry Grove Pier and a mix of golf courses, restaurants, and shops that cater to a diverse crowd looking to unwind by the Atlantic Ocean. For a leisurely experience, visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds thinner. The beachfront is ideal for leisurely strolls, while nearby Barefoot Landing offers shopping and dining options with a scenic waterfront view. Keep an eye out for local events that pop up during the summer season.

Brookgreen Gardens is a 9,127-acre sculpture garden and wildlife preserve established in the 1930s. It features over 2,000 works of American figurative sculpture set among native coastal plants, winding trails, and tranquil water features. The site was created by anthropologist Anna Hyatt Huntington and her husband, Archer Huntington, and showcases both art and the region's natural beauty. Plan to spend half a day to fully appreciate the landscape, plus check out the Lowcountry history and culture exhibits. Spring is particularly lovely with blooming azaleas, but early mornings year-round offer a peaceful atmosphere. Look out for the large population of herons and egrets that nest in the gardens.

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach features a wide range of marine life in a vibrant setting, including a stunning underwater tunnel where visitors can walk through and see various species swimming overhead. Opened in 1997, this aquarium is part of the Ripley's Believe It or Not! franchise, emphasizing interactive exhibits and conservation efforts. Ideal for families, the aquarium draws crowds, especially on weekends and during summer vacations. Key exhibits include the Shark Tunnel and the Touch a Ray Bay, where you can interact with stingrays. Plan a visit during late mornings or early afternoons to avoid the peak rush and enjoy a more leisurely experience.

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a 200-foot-tall observation wheel that towers over the beachfront promenade, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. Built in 2011, its 42 climate-controlled gondolas provide a comfortable ride, making it a notable addition to this popular beach destination. Rides are particularly stunning at sunset, when the ocean sparkles and the town lights begin to glow. The SkyWheel is located near a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like the boardwalk and amusement park. The illuminated wheel at night adds a charming touch to the coastal scene.

Myrtle Beach State Park is a 312-acre coastal preserve featuring diverse ecosystems, including maritime forests, salt marshes, and a stretch of sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean. Established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it highlights natural and recreational spaces pivotal to the region's beach tourism. Visitors can explore over 10 kilometres of trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. The park is best enjoyed in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and crowds are fewer. The nearby Myrtle Beach Boardwalk offers an alternative atmosphere, providing additional dining and entertainment options just a short drive away.

Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a classic beachfront amusement park in Myrtle Beach, featuring a variety of rides and attractions. Established in 1966, it preserves a nostalgic charm with its wooden roller coasters and vintage carnival games, all set against the backdrop of ocean views and the sounds of the surf. Plan to spend a few hours enjoying the rides, especially the Swamp Fox roller coaster, which offers a charming perspective of the park and the coast. The park is busiest during summer weekends; visiting in the early afternoon can help you avoid longer lines. Nearby, the beach and boardwalk provide a lively atmosphere for a stroll after a day of fun.

Hard Rock Cafe Myrtle Beach is a lively dining spot located on the Grand Strand, this venue brings the iconic brand's fusion of rock and roll culture with casual dining. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by an extensive collection of music memorabilia, showcasing pieces from legendary artists, alongside a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of live music and entertainment. The menu features classic American fare alongside signature cocktails, making it a good spot for both families and groups looking to unwind after a day at the beach. For those looking to explore more, it's situated near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, where additional dining options, shops, and attractions complete the experience. The cafe is particularly busy on weekends, so an early visit during the week can be more relaxed.

Myrtle Waves Water Park is a sprawling 20-acre water park featuring over 30 rides and attractions, making it the largest water park in South Carolina. Opened in the 1980s, it offers a mix of high-speed slides, lazy rivers, and a wave pool, all set against a lush backdrop of palm trees and tropical landscaping. The park is ideal for families, with areas designed for younger children and thrill-seekers alike. Visit in the summer months for the full experience, but expect the busiest crowds on weekends. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense in the open areas.

The Hollywood Wax Museum Myrtle Beach showcases life-like wax figures of celebrities, allowing visitors to pose with their favourite stars from film and television. Opened in the early 2000s, the museum fits into the broader entertainment landscape of Myrtle Beach, which is popular for its family-friendly attractions and beach activities. Allocate about an hour to explore the exhibits, which include interactive displays. It’s best visited during the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds. The museum is located on the bustling Highway 17, close to other attractions like WonderWorks and the Ripley’s Aquarium.

Medieval Times Myrtle Beach is a dinner theatre that recreates a 11th-century tournament with knights on horseback engaging in jousts, sword fights, and displays of falconry. The venue features a grand castle-style setting where guests are seated in themed sections, reflecting the historical age of chivalry and pageantry. Arrive early to take in the ambience and explore the castle grounds, adorned with medieval art and displays. The show combines a meal with entertaining performances, making it best suited for evening visits. Be prepared for an interactive experience as the audience is encouraged to cheer for their knight of choice.

Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze is an engaging attraction featuring a labyrinth of over 100 mirrors designed to confuse and entertain visitors. The intricate space is filled with optical illusions, shimmering lights, and a funhouse aesthetic, making it a playful experience for all ages. Allocate about an hour to navigate the maze, which is best enjoyed in small groups to heighten the sense of adventure. Nearby, the boardwalk offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, providing a lively atmosphere to extend your visit. The reflective surfaces create unique photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready.

Ripley's Haunted Adventure Laser Strike is an immersive experience combining a haunted house with interactive gameplay, located on Myrtle Beach's bustling Ocean Boulevard. This multi-dimensional attraction features state-of-the-art technology, animated scenes, and skilled actors, all contributing to a spooky environment that entertains and challenges visitors in a uniquely engaging way. Allocate about an hour to navigate through the eerie corridors and take part in the laser tag challenge. Evenings attract crowds looking for thrills, so visiting during weekdays or earlier in the day might offer a quieter experience. Nearby, the vibrant boardwalk and arcades provide additional entertainment options for a full day out.

Broadway at the Beach is a sprawling entertainment complex in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, featuring a mixture of shops, restaurants, and attractions surrounding a picturesque lake. Opened in the early 1990s, this vibrant area is home to a variety of experiences, including live performances, amusement rides, and an aquarium. The best time to visit is in the evening when the area lights up, creating a lively atmosphere. Plan to stroll along the boardwalk or indulge in a meal while enjoying lake views. Nearby, the Hollywood Wax Museum adds to the entertainment options, offering visitors a chance to see lifelike replicas of their favorite celebrities.

Grand Strand is a 60-mile stretch of coastline in South Carolina, anchoring Myrtle Beach with its broad stretches of soft sand and lively atmosphere. The area is known for its beachfront resorts, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions, including amusement parks and shopping complexes that draw millions of visitors annually. For a day by the sea, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Be prepared for traffic congestion in peak summer, especially near popular spots like Broadway at the Beach and the SkyWheel, which offers sweeping views of the coastline.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is an amusement park housed in a building that appears to be upside down, created in the style of a tornado’s aftermath. This interactive attraction features over 100 hands-on exhibits that blend education and entertainment, ranging from physical challenges to scientific experiments, catering to both children and adults. Allocate a few hours to explore, particularly if you want to engage with multiple exhibits. The best times to visit tend to be weekday mornings when crowds are lighter. Nearby attractions include the SkyWheel and the beach, which are both walkable, making it easy to plan a full day of activities.

Barefoot Landing is a waterfront complex situated along the Intracoastal Waterway, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues built in the 1980s. Its rustic charm is accentuated by red wooden bridges and scenic views, drawing visitors to experience the laid-back atmosphere of Myrtle Beach. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the boutiques and checking out local eateries. The evening is particularly enjoyable when the area comes alive with music and events. The nearby Alabama Theatre offers additional entertainment options, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors.

The Carolina Opry is a live entertainment venue in Myrtle Beach known for its variety of musical performances, comedy acts, and dance shows. Opened in 1986, it showcases a wide range of genres including country, rock, and gospel, featuring an impressive stage production that has garnered regional acclaim. Evening performances are the most popular, attracting both tourists and locals, with a lively atmosphere enhanced by the talented cast. Arrive early to enjoy the ambience and grab a snack from nearby eateries. The Opry is centrally located, making it easy to explore other attractions along the Grand Strand.