Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, draws over 17 million visitors annually to its stunning 60-mile coastline. Even during peak July season, these lesser-known treasures offer rich experiences without the crowds. As a local expert, here are five must-see spots: Franklin G. Burroughs–Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum This oceanfront gem showcases works by living Southern artists, including Myrtle Beach locals, alongside rotating exhibits from masters like Ansel Adams and Norman Rockwell. Admission is always

At 18 stories tall, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel delivers the most stunning panoramic views of the Grand Strand—an unmissable experience for visitors.For the 2015 season, the SkyWheel introduced affordable annual passes: just $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 3-11. Each pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase.This pass grants unlimited rides on the SkyWheel throughout the year, discounted general admission tickets for up to four guests per day, and exclusive updates on spec

Were less than two weeks away from the inaugural Carolina Country Music Fest, arriving at Myrtle Beach’s shores and boardwalk. Enjoy the VisitMyrtleBeach.com Kick-Off Concert on June 4, followed by the main festival from Friday, June 5, through Sunday, June 7.Two-day tickets are now available. Choose your dates: Friday and Saturday, or Saturday and Sunday.Two-day passes are priced at $159.Featured performers include top talent like Lady Antebellum, Eric Church, Rascal Flatts, Hunter Hayes, Sam H

Returning for its third consecutive year in the Myrtle Beach area, The Native Sons Salt Games delivers high-energy excitement, fierce competition, teamwork, and family fun right on the beach this weekend.Competition takes center stage at this two-day event on May 30 and 31, held at the historic Pavilion site near Eighth Avenue North in downtown Myrtle Beach.Highlights include a pro-am surfing tournament, professional volleyball competition, paddleboarding race, and a dedicated kids’ race.But tha

Its the first of June, and summer is officially underway in the Myrtle Beach area.Things are about to get even more exhilarating with the opening of the new Radical Ropes Adventure Park later this month.Located at 301 19th Avenue South in the heart of Myrtle Beach, this treetop adventure offers thrill-seekers three high ropes courses reaching up to 55 feet high.While navigating the trees, challenge yourself on extreme ziplines launching from 70 feet.Extreme is the perfect word—this is family fun

Pack your sunglasses and sunscreen for a sun-soaked summer getaway in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Nestled along the 60-mile Grand Strand coastline, this Lowcountry gem offers endless adventures for families, music lovers, and beach enthusiasts alike. Planning your summer itinerary? Myrtle Beach delivers with a lineup of vibrant events, from star-studded music festivals to free fireworks and family-friendly festivities. Heres your guide to the seasons highlights: Carolina Country Music Festiva

Summer is in full swing, and its time to experience the excitement of Hot Summer Nights on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk! Through August 30, the boardwalk transforms every evening with live music, a kids carnival, dazzling fireworks, and much more for families and friends. Mondays feature the kids carnival in Plyler Park, offering childrens bands, inflatables, face painting, a caricature artist, games, and activities that delight kids and adults alike. Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays bring

Exciting events are lining up along the Myrtle Beach shores this weekend with the Carolina Country Music Fest and a classic car celebration.Country music fans kicked off the festivities early Thursday with the VisitMyrtleBeach.com Kick-Off Concert featuring Sam Hunt. Now, CCMF is in full swing along Eighth Avenue North near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.Eager crowds are ready to enjoy A-list country stars like Rascal Flatts, Lady Antebellum, Eric Church, and more, performing their biggest hits ocea

Ripleys Aquarium in Myrtle Beach has unveiled an awe-inspiring new exhibit: Planet Jellies. This captivating display welcomes visitors through a color-changing entrance into a mesmerizing room illuminated by glowing columns and tanks that make the jellyfish shimmer ethereally.The Planet Jellies exhibit features nine tanks holding over 5,000 gallons of water, managed by four specialized operating systems. Explore five fascinating jellyfish species: Moon Jelly, Pacific Sea Nettle, Spotted Lagoon J

Discover one of the Myrtle Beach areas most beloved summer traditions returning this weekend: the annual Conway Riverfest.The festivities light up Riverfront Park and Marina Drive on Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.This vibrant Independence Day celebration unfolds along the scenic Waccamaw River in downtown Conway, featuring live music, an artisan market, Jello jump, kids zone, and mouthwatering food vendors.The grand finale? A breathtaking fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., capping off t

North Myrtle Beach is providing visitors and residents with abundant opportunities to enjoy live music this summer.In addition to the Sounds of Summer Concert Series, the Music on Main Concert Series runs every Thursday through October 1.Main Street comes alive with local talent performing genres from classic rock and blues to Motown and beach music.Best of all, these concerts are free and family-friendly—the perfect way to relax after a day at the beach!While youre there, explore the unique sho

The summer heat persists in Myrtle Beach, turning our thoughts to refreshing dips in the ocean or pool—or the ultimate cool-down: ice cream!This creamy, delectable treat delights everyone, from kids to seniors. The Myrtle Beach area offers endless options to tame that sweet tooth.Step back in time at Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor, where an old-fashioned atmosphere pairs perfectly with timeless flavors like cookies and cream, pralines and cream, and rich chocolate.In North Myrtle Beach, discover The Or

Weve been exploring the local food scene lately, and with summer in full swing, hamburgers are a staple in the Myrtle Beach area.Whether firing up the grill at home or dining out, River City Café delivers standout burgers that keep locals and visitors coming back.This Grand Strand original boasts a rustic, welcoming atmosphere across multiple locations, many offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or Intracoastal Waterway.The burgers steal the show. Our top pick? The peanut butter burg

The iconic Ford Mustang has captivated enthusiasts for over 50 years. Now, its time to give this American legend the spotlight it deserves!The 2015 Mustang Week returns to the Myrtle Beach area from July 14 through July 18.Activities span the Grand Strand, honoring this marvel of American engineering with car shows, fun runs, cruise-ins, and more.Events kick off with a meet-and-greet at the Palace Theatre from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 14. On July 15, experience the BFGoodrich Track Day at the My

In 2015, the Myrtle Beach area solidified its reputation as a premier family beach destination, drawing millions of visitors annually.Yet, like many American communities, its journey to prominence is steeped in a diverse and compelling history.A visit to the Horry County Museum offers an engaging adventure into the past.Given the beachs central role in our identity, one standout exhibit traces the evolution of our 60 miles of coastline across generations.Visitors often reminisce over vintage swi

Pirates have captured the worlds imagination in recent years, thanks in large part to Johnny Depp, and the Myrtle Beach area delivers with the thrilling Pirates Voyage dinner theater.Since opening in 2011, this electrifying show has audiences shouting Arrrggghhh! with excitement.Savor a kings feast as rival pirate crews—the Crimsons versus the Sapphires—battle fiercely across full-sized ships, the skies above, and the waters below.Experience the high-seas adventure that leaves visitors thrilled

Are you passionate about crafts? This weekend, head to the Myrtle Beach area for an unforgettable experience.Now in its 32nd year along the Grand Strand, the Craftsmen’s Summer Classic Art and Craft Festival takes place at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center from July 31 through August 2, 2015.Meet hundreds of talented artists and craftspeople from across the nation showcasing their work.This festival offers something for every style, taste, and budget—from traditional to contemporary, functional

A decades-old tradition returns to Brookgreen Gardens this Saturday with the National Sculpture Society’s 82nd Annual Awards Exhibition.Viewable from August 8 through November 1, 2015, this juried showcase features masterpieces from renowned American sculptors alongside emerging talents.America’s oldest professional sculptors’ organization, the National Sculpture Society, will present 15 prestigious awards. The popular People’s Choice Award is voted on by Brookgreen Gardens visitors.Don’t miss t

South Carolinas Tax Free Weekend runs August 7 through 9, 2015, with no sales tax on clothing, school supplies, computers, and accessories.For visitors to the Myrtle Beach area, its the perfect time for retail therapy and stocking up on fall wardrobes. One top shopping destination along the Grand Strand is Tanger Outlets.With over 200 leading designer and brand-name stores, theres something for everyone.Tanger Outlets has two convenient locations in the Myrtle Beach area, both opening an hour ea

According to the U.S. Travel Association, 90% of Americans report that paid time off helps them relax, and 85% say it boosts their happiness. Yet, over 40% left unused vacation days on the table in 2014. Skift data shows Southerners took the fewest vacation days. Fortunately, early fall 2015 offers the perfect opportunity to escape to Southern gems like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with pleasant weather, warm ocean waters, fewer crowds, and budget-friendly stays. Here are compelling reasons wh