Discover the Rich History of South Carolina's Grand Strand
The Myrtle Beach area, known locally as the "Grand Strand," encompasses 60 miles of pristine Atlantic coastline across 14 communities and two counties. Famous for family-friendly attractions, diverse restaurants, the iconic Boardwalk with its SkyWheel, and amusement parks, this destination also offers deep dives into coastal South Carolina's unique history.
Escape the beach for a day or two to explore the region's storied past. The Lowcountry's rice plantations once supplied rice to the entire nation. Uncover this legacy at The Rice Museum in downtown Georgetown, about an hour south of Myrtle Beach.
Traveling north on US Route 17, visit Hopsewee Plantation, built around 1740—decades before the American Revolution. A key rice plantation and birthplace of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Lynch Jr., this National Historic Landmark now offers tours, afternoon tea, and seasonal dining as a private residence.
Continue to Huntington Beach State Park, featuring unspoiled beaches, sea-breeze camping, South Carolina's best surf fishing, and premier East Coast birdwatching. Explore Atalaya, the enchanting Moorish-style winter home of philanthropist Archer Huntington and sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington, who gifted the park and neighboring Brookgreen Gardens. Tour this captivating "castle" to learn their legacy.
Across the highway lies Brookgreen Gardens, a vast 9,000-acre outdoor sculpture garden and botanical paradise. One ticket grants seven-day access to the nation's largest collection of American figurative sculpture amid stunning gardens, three galleries, and a research facility. Enjoy boat tours, the Lowcountry Zoo, and exhibits on Gullah Geechee culture.
Drive 40 minutes west past Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge to historic Conway, SC—established in 1732 along the Waccamaw River. This charming town brims with historic sites, boutique shops, and eateries. The Horry County Museum showcases the area's history, prehistory, and natural heritage through exhibits, programs, and events.
In 2009, the museum unveiled the L.W. Paul Living History Farm, recreating daily life on a one-horse family farm from 1900 to 1955. Visitors can immerse themselves in rural history and join seasonal events—check the website for schedules.
Returning to central Myrtle Beach, the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School & Education Center serves as a museum chronicling African American education before desegregation. Built in 1932 and restored in 2005 with city support, it highlights the school's pivotal role in the Black community's growth during the 1950s.
Newly restored by the City of Myrtle Beach, Charlie’s Place was a legendary nightclub owned by Charlie and Sarah Fitzgerald. Icons like Dizzy Gillespie, Little Richard, and Billie Holiday performed here and stayed at the adjacent Fitzgerald Hotel. Today, the site includes a refurbished home as an event center and reconstructed motel rooms depicting segregation-era travel. Free public tours are offered Tuesdays—visit their website for details.
Learn more about Myrtle Beach-area historical sites, local heritage, and family attractions. Plan your trip using our History Buff itinerary to visit these treasures.
