Blake Walsh

15 Free Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, SC

  • Published 2022/12/05

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast.

With its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and many attractions, Myrtle Beach in Horry County has something for everyone.

The boardwalk is a great place to stroll, ride a bike, or just people-watch.

For the more adventurous, there are parasailing and jet skiing opportunities.

Myrtle Beach also has scenic views perfect for taking pictures.

So whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, Myrtle Beach is the perfect place.

Here are the 15 free things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

Take a Leisure Stroll on the White Sand of Myrtle Beach

Sunny day at Myrtle Beach

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Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, and it’s easy to see why.

The white sand beaches that run 60 miles in length are beautiful, and the weather is warm and sunny almost year-round.

Visitors can stroll along the beach, dip in the ocean, or relax in the sun.

Two people walking along the White Sand of Myrtle Beach

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The city is home to miles of sandy beaches, several state parks, and nature preserves.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Myrtle Beach is sure to please you and your family’s wonderful vacation experience.

Beach umbrella and chairs at Myrtle Beach

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Get a Chance to See Remarkable Artworks at Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

If you’re interested in the arts, the Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum should definitely be on your list to visit in Myrtle Beach.

The museum, which opened in 1997 to critical acclaim, is a top tourist destination for art lovers visiting this beach.

The extensive and varied collection housed within the museum draws people from all over the world.

The Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is home to several remarkable collections, including the Waccamaw Arts Guild Collection and the Burgess-Dinkelspiel Collection of Southern Art, which is one of the most comprehensive collections of Southern art in the world.

The Bishop Collection of Antique Maps + Historical Prints is a fascinating collection of antique maps spanning more than five centuries.

The maps in the collection depict everything from early American settlements to important battles in history.

The museum is devoted to offering both locals and travelers alike enjoyable and educational experiences through its exhibitions and programs.

Come visit the museum soon to get a glimpse of its wonderful art collections!

Know More about African American History at the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum & Education Center

Exterior of the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

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The Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum & Education Center is a must-see for anyone interested in civil rights history in the United States.

The museum is located in the former schoolhouse that served as the only educational institution for African Americans in Myrtle Beach since its opening in 1932.

The museum provides an intimate look at the everyday lives of African American students during segregation and the struggles and successes of the civil rights movement.

Visitors can see firsthand how education helped to empower students and learn about the incredible strength and resilience of the African American community.

The Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum & Education Center is a powerful reminder of the importance of equality and justice for all.

Exercise on the Trails of The Hulk – Horry County Bike & Run Park

The Hulk – Horry County Bike & Run Park in Myrtle Beach is a great place to exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

The park features a wide variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that wind through the woods and offer scenic views of the surrounding area.

It has several bridges and boardwalks over wetlands, providing a perfect opportunity to see some local wildlife up close.

You will see squirrels, rabbits, different kinds of birds, deer, spiders, and coyotes.

Taking your family here for exercise will be fun, especially for your kids who want an adventure.

Visit the Hulk – Horry County Bike & Run Park, a great place to get out and enjoy the fresh air!

Enjoy a Leisure Walk at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

Ferris wheel at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

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The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is a must-see for any traveler to the area.

It stretches 1.2 miles along the beachfront, providing a wonderful place to stroll and enjoy the fresh sea air with magnificent ocean views.

A boardwalk is also a great place to watch people, as it’s always filled with locals and tourists enjoying sunny days and warm nights.

People walking along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

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The boardwalk is lined with establishments, making it an ideal spot to stroll for a day or evening out.

Whether you are looking for a place to relax or want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is sure to please.

Shops along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

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Read Books at Horry County Memorial Library – Carolina Forest

For all the bookworm tourists out there, you might want to stop by this library in Myrtle Beach.

The Horry County Memorial Library – Carolina Forest is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a quiet place to read or study.

The library has a large selection of books, magazines, and newspapers, as well as a variety of computer games and software programs.

The library also offers different events and programs, such as story times for children, book clubs for adults, and computer classes for all ages.

This is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach.

Make your way to the Horry County Memorial Library if you’re looking for a delightful place to curl up with a good book!

Take Pictures under the Apache Pier

Daytime view of the Apache Pier

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Myrtle Beach is a top destination for beach lovers, and Apache Pier is one of the best spots in town.

The Apache Pier is the longest wooden pier on the East Coast and boasts 1,206 feet in length.

The pier is located in the heart of Myrtle Beach and offers stunning ocean views.

People fishing on the Apache Pier

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Myrtle Beach is home to many beautiful natural wonders, and one of the best places to enjoy them is the spot below Apache Pier which is free to visit!

With its stunning views of the setting sun, Myrtle Beach offers numerous opportunities for photography enthusiasts of all levels.

So come and explore everything that Apache Pier has to offer!

Aerial view of the Apache Pier

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Take a Break at Nance Plaza

Nance Plaza is a great place to take a break while exploring Myrtle Beach.

Nance Plaza is established to honor Daniel Wayne Nance and Mary Ellen Todd Nance for their outstanding contributions to the growth of Myrtle Beach.

The central fountain is a popular spot for kids to cool off on hot days, and the nearby benches make it a perfect place to relax and watch people.

If you have money to spare, visitors can also find several restaurants and cafes within the plaza, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat.

Whether you’re looking for a place to rest your feet or want to soak up the local atmosphere, Nance Plaza is worth a visit.

Be Amazed by the Stunning World War II Aircraft at Warbird Park

Aircrafts at Warbird Park

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Warbird Park is one of the most popular attractions in Myrtle Beach.

The park is home to a collection of WWII-era airplanes like the A-10 Thunderbolt, F-100 Sabre, and A-7 Corsair, as well as various other military memorabilia.

Visitors can explore the exhibits, which chronicle warbirds’ and military pilots’ history.

The park also features a Wall of Service where all military and civilian personnel who rendered valiant service at the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base are recognized.

A-7 Corsair at Warbird Park

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The POW-MIA Memorial, Purple Heart Recipient Memorial, Battlefield Cross Memorial, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine Memorials have memorials at the Warbird Park Circle of Heroes.

The park also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults.

Warbird Park is a must-see for any visitors to Myrtle Beach.

F-100 Sabre at Warbird Park

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Relax in the Cozy Place of Gardens by the Sea

Gardens by the Sea Beach is one of Myrtle Beach’s hidden gems.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, this small beach is perfect for those who want to avoid crowds.

The sparkling waters and soft sand make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

And the views are simply stunning because of the fine white sand, pristine blue waters, and fantastic sun.

Gardens by the Sea is ideal for a family outing or a romantic walk along the shore.

Whether you’re looking out at the ocean or taking in the sights for a slice of paradise in Myrtle Beach, there’s no doubt that Gardens by the Sea is a special place.

Let the Springmaid Beach Pier Be the Background For Your Perfect Pictures

Thick fog covering Springmaid Beach Pier

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The Springmaid Beach Pier is one of the most popular attractions in Myrtle Beach.

Springmaid Beach Pier is a wooden pier that spans 1,060 feet in length.

The pier offers stunning coastline views nearly a quarter-mile into the Atlantic Ocean.

The pier is perfectly structured for photography.

So, when you see it, get your camera out, pose however you want, and use the pier as your background.

Then enjoy the stunning view of the Springmaid Beach Pier in your pictures!

Look around the Broadway at the Beach

Amusement park at Broadway at the Beach

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Many tourists flock to Broadway at the Beach when they visit Myrtle Beach.

Visitors can explore this wonderful outdoor complex in Myrtle Beach for free.

At night, the lights coming from the Broadway shops and attractions is perfect for that Instagrammable night photography.

Carousel and ferris wheel at Broadway at the Beach

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The fun never stops here because you can enjoy live music and performances all year round.

This family-friendly destination also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including a fireworks show every Tuesday night and a few Friday nights during the summer.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Broadway at the Beach is one of the top tourist spots in Myrtle Beach.

People touring around Broadway at the Beach

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Other Things to Do Nearby

There are many places to visit and things to do in Myrtle Beach.

But there are also some great attractions nearby that you can check out.

Spend Time at McLean Park

Ducks at McLean Park

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McLean Park is a beautiful park located in North Myrtle Beach, just 27 minutes from Myrtle Beach.

The park has 10 acres of land and two acres of lake with a wide variety of amenities, including a playground and picnic tables.

The playground keeps the kids entertained, and the picnic tables are perfect for a family picnic.

The park is also a great place to take a walk or ride a bike since it has a walking area with a fitness trail.

There are plenty of trails to explore, and you’re sure to find fantastic views along the way.

You can enjoy the view from that garden in this park.

This park is the perfect place to play, relax, or explore!

Chill with the Family at Cherry Grove Oceanfront Park

Located in North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Oceanfront Park is a beautiful and popular spot for locals and visitors.

It’s just a 25-minute ride from Myrtle Beach.

The park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a wide range of facilities and amenities.

Visitors can stroll along the shores, relax on the beach, or play a volleyball game.

The park also features a playground and picnic tables making it the perfect spot for a family day outdoors.

This park is a place to relax or have fun, so check Cherry Grove Oceanfront Park on your next visit to Myrtle Beach.

Take a Break at Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve

Looking for a place to get away from it all? Then Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve is your perfect destination.

Just 19 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach, you can enjoy nature at its finest.

Relax in peaceful surroundings, take a hike through the woods, and experience all this preserve in Conway has to offer.

The preserve offers a unique opportunity to see some of the state’s natural beauty up close.

It is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including raccoon, deer, fox, quail, squirrel, and black bears, in its 10,427 acres of land.

Visitors can enjoy activities like bird watching, fishing, and kayaking.

Also, the preserve is a great place to enjoy some peace and quiet.

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve is definitely worth a visit.

Final Thoughts

Myrtle Beach is perfect for enjoying the sun, white sand, and pristine sea waters.

This place offers a variety of attractions that the locals and tourists love, like taking strolls to the shoreline and enjoying the views from the piers, parks, and preserves.

When planning your next vacation, be sure to include this place and try these 15 free things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

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