Planning a family vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? With its 60 miles of sandy beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and endless kid-friendly activities, Myrtle Beach is a paradise for families. This comprehensive guide highlights the top Myrtle Beach attractions for kids, ensuring your trip is packed with fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories. From thrilling amusement parks to interactive museums, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Myrtle Beach Attractions for Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide
Why Myrtle Beach is Perfect for Families
Myrtle Beach, often called the Grand Strand, is renowned for its family-friendly vibe. The area boasts mild weather, affordable attractions, and a wide range of activities suitable for kids of all ages. Whether your family loves outdoor adventures or indoor entertainment, Myrtle Beach delivers. Here’s a closer look at the best attractions to keep your kids entertained.
Top Outdoor Attractions for Kids
With abundant sunshine and natural beauty, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of outdoor activities that kids will love. These attractions combine fun with the chance to explore the great outdoors.
Myrtle Beach State Park
Myrtle Beach State Park is a gem for families looking to connect with nature. This 312-acre park features hiking trails, a fishing pier, and a pristine beach. Kids can explore the nature center, participate in ranger-led programs, or hunt for seashells along the shore. Affordable daily admission makes it a budget-friendly option for a day of outdoor fun.
Brookgreen Gardens
Located in Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens is a 9,100-acre sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. Kids will love the Lowcountry Zoo, Butterfly House, and Children’s Garden Room. The gardens also host family-friendly events throughout the year, making it a must-visit for families seeking a blend of art, nature, and education.
Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach is a bustling entertainment complex with kid-friendly attractions like the Dino Park, featuring over 20 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Kids can dig for fossils or dive into a 100,000-ball pit for a prehistoric adventure. The complex also offers mini-golf, boat rides, and arcades, ensuring endless fun.
Thrilling Amusement Parks and Rides
For kids who crave excitement, Myrtle Beach’s amusement parks and rides deliver heart-pounding thrills and family-friendly fun.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park
Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a classic seaside park with over 38 rides, including kiddie rides for younger children and thrilling coasters for older kids. The park’s oceanfront location adds to the charm, and free admission for non-riders makes it budget-friendly for parents. Don’t miss the iconic Swamp Fox roller coaster!
The Funplex Myrtle Beach
The Funplex is a modern amusement park with seven exciting rides, a splash pad, and interactive games. The colorful, compact layout is perfect for younger kids, and the park’s outdoor setting offers a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a few hours of high-energy fun.
Indoor Attractions for Rainy Days
Myrtle Beach’s indoor attractions are perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun. These engaging spots keep kids entertained while sparking their curiosity.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
Ripley’s Aquarium is a top indoor attraction, featuring thousands of marine species across interactive exhibits. Kids will be awestruck by the Dangerous Reef, where sharks swim overhead in a 750,000-gallon tunnel. The Penguin Playhouse and stingray experiences add extra excitement. Special events like mermaid photos make every visit memorable.
WonderWorks Myrtle Beach
Billed as an “amusement park for the mind,” WonderWorks offers 50,000 square feet of educational fun. Kids can ride virtual roller coasters, experience hurricane-force winds, or tackle a ropes course. The laser tag arena and arcade games are hits with older kids, making it a versatile attraction for all ages.
Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center
The Hollywood Wax Museum is a hit with kids who love pop culture. They can snap photos with lifelike celebrity figures or navigate the thrilling zombie outbreak experience. The museum’s interactive displays and engaging layout keep kids entertained for hours.
Educational and Cultural Experiences
Myrtle Beach isn’t just about thrills—it’s also home to attractions that educate and inspire young minds.
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Games
Catch a Myrtle Beach Pelicans game for a fun, family-friendly outing. Even if kids aren’t baseball fans, they’ll love the playground, Fun Zone, and post-game fireworks. Weekly promotions like BOGO hotdogs make it an affordable experience.
Charles Bach Wonders Magic and Illusion Show
This captivating magic show at Broadway at the Beach combines illusions, dance, and humor. Kids are mesmerized by the tricks, and the intimate setting ensures everyone feels part of the magic. It’s a great way to add a touch of wonder to your vacation.
Tips for Planning Your Myrtle Beach Family Vacation
To make the most of your trip, consider these practical tips for visiting Myrtle Beach with kids:
- Save with Coupons: Pick up coupon books like the Monster Coupon Book or Strand at visitor centers or hotels for discounts on attractions.
- Timing is Key: Visit popular attractions early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months.
- Pack for the Beach: Bring beach towels, chairs, and toys to enjoy the free 60-mile Grand Strand without renting equipment.
- Check Event Schedules: Many attractions host special events, like fireworks or character meet-and-greets, so check websites for details.
- Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations: Resorts like Marina Inn at Grande Dunes offer easy access to attractions and kid-friendly amenities.
Best Times to Visit Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a year-round destination, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with vibrant energy, while winter brings holiday events and lower hotel rates.
Conclusion: Create Lasting Memories in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions, from sun-soaked beaches to mind-bending museums. Whether your kids love adventure, nature, or learning, this coastal gem has it all. Plan your trip with this guide to ensure a vacation filled with laughter, excitement, and cherished moments. Start exploring Myrtle Beach attractions for kids today and make your family getaway unforgettable!
For more information, visit Visit Myrtle Beach or check out local resources for the latest deals and events. Happy travels!
