There is a reason Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is often named one of the best family destinations in the United States. First of all, it’s more affordable than many beach towns, and second, there is plenty of fun to be had by all ages.
With more than 60 miles of coastline, it can be difficult to pull away from the beach and sunshine, but it is necessary while traveling with kids who may not quite get how to fully relax and enjoy it.
For that reason, I wanted to put together a list of ideas for extra things to do while in the area since we were recently there for our stay at Captain’s Quarters Resort.
Please let me know what I’ve missed in the comments!
Places To Go With Kids in Myrtle Beach
Alligator Adventure
This is a great spot for any reptile-loving kid or adult! The property has 15 acres full of more than 200 species of animals — including tons of gators. Make sure to work in a live show or alligator feeding while there, too.
SkyWheel
This isn’t just a ferris wheel…It’s 200 feet of fun in the sky — complete with air conditioning. And no need to wait until kids are a certain height — all are welcome! In fact, age 2 and under ride free. It’s the perfect way to see the sights and the ocean from the sky.
Walk the Grand Strand
This area, located near the SkyWheel, has a boardwalk, plenty of shops, and touristy fun to check out. Kids will go nuts in I Love Sugar — and adults too. The selection of bulk candy is seriously impressive — and make sure to look up at the gummy bear lights!
Brookgreen Gardens
Just south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens in Murrels Inlet is the perfect excuse to take in some native animals at the Low Country Zoo, check out a butterfly house, an enchanted storybook forest and the largest collection of sculptures in America. Bonus? There are free strollers available to use, too.
Ripley’s Aquarium
Touch stingrays and admire thousands of beautiful sea life at this fun adventure spot. Make sure to book online to save time.
Children’s Museum of South Carolina
This spot was a fun place to spend an hour to get out of the sun. Kids can get in lots of pretend play, dig for dinosaurs, drive a pizza van, blow bubbles and more. It’s ideal for crawlers through age 8. Check Groupon for a fun deal, too.
Pirate’s Voyage Dinner Theatre
This is a pricier excursion for a larger family, but SO worth it! Get ready for a night of great food and plenty of entertainment from acrobatic pirates and mermaids to a Salty seal. Pay an extra $20 for each child for make-up and props — so worth it!
Thorny’s
This restaurant had a great arcade and kid’s play area to keep our crew busy while waiting for a meal. And the kid’s meals are served on frisbees, which makes it more fun. Did I mention $3.50 margarita’s too? 😉
Johnny D’s Waffles & Bakery
If your kids love waffles like mine do, they will love the fun options at Johnny D’s, including a Funfetti kind…with chocolate chips! This is an Autism-friendly restaurant too, which will mean a lot to families on the spectrum. {More Autism-friendly attractions here.}
Other recommended ideas for tots to teens:
- Children’s Pirate Adventure
- Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise {Check Groupon}
- Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park
- Fun Warehouse
- Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament {Check Groupon}
- Shopping! {Barefoot Landing, Tanger Outlets, Broadway at the Beach and Market Common are great spots to start}
- Myrtle Beach Segway
- NASCAR Racing Experience {Check Groupon}
- WonderWorks
- Mini Golf
- Go Ape Zip Line and Treetop Adventure
- Family Kingdom Amusement and Splashes Oceanfront Water Park
For more ideas, check out Visit Myrtle Beach.
Disclosure: As a member of the media, I received discounts to some spots.
What are your favorite things to do with kids in Myrtle Beach?
Sinorides says
It is so pity that I just see the pictures online about the MYRTLE BEACH!
Several years ago, I am planning to visit it, but there is some reasons that I did not make it!
After reading your post, I am more looking forward to go there!
Thanks for your sharing, Lauren!