Vacation in South Carolina might be the right choice for you and your family this year. You can fly or drive, visit amazing nature areas along the way, or even have a first road trip experience for your little ones. Check out things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids for inspiration.
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1. Ripley’s aquarium is one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids
If you have heard of famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museums then you won’t be surprised that one of the biggest attractions in the area is Ripley’s Aquarium. Attracting visitors from all around the country, this excellent experience will stay in your kids’ memory forever.
You can spend the entire day here and still have something to see and experience, that’s how big and interesting it is. It is spread on two levels, plus has a live penguin cam.
On the upper level, you’ll see Rio Amazon, Friendship Flats, Planet Jellies, Cargo Hold Gift Shop, and Penguin Playhouse. The lower level there are Rainbow Rock, Dangerous Reef, Living Gallery, Ray Bay, and Systems Control.
Watch the penguins live on the camera, as an introduction to this awesome place or to get your kids excited about the visit. Another option is a virtual tour of the aquarium, which can be great afternoon fun for your family.
Some of the exceptional experiences offered in the aquarium are penguin encounters, stingray experiences, glass-bottom boats, and sleepovers. Educational programs are also available, which is great for those who are homeschooling their kids.
If one of your kiddos’ birthdays is coming up you can organize a party here, or celebrate an important anniversary with the whole family. You can combine tickets to the aquarium with other Ripley’s attractions, or sign up for the upcoming events.
Website: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/myrtlebeach/ Address: 1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-7465 Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost: $$ - $$$
2. Broadway at the Beach
When choosing the right things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids, Broadway at the beach is a must-see. It is among the most visited attractions in the area, with entertainment for all age groups, from kids to adults.
There is close-by parking for all visitors, so you can visit if you are coming out of town, or you can have an easy walk to this area from the beach or your hotel. With views of the sea and walking distance to the hotel zone, this is not only a tourist attraction but also loved by the locals.
You can go shopping, see Broadway-style shows, explore attractions, and go for drinks or dinner with your family and friends. Eateries you can find here include Kilwin’s, Ben & Jerry’s, King Kong Sushi, Paula Dean’s, Melt and so much more.
If you come here off-season you will still see plenty of visitors around, but there is more opportunity for spending time in less crowded areas. Check out souvenir shops, and buy authentic clothing and accessories items from places like Xmas at the Beach, Jester’s Jewels, The Mole Hole, and others.
Of all the attractions that this place is offering, I would highlight the 2000 square feet Backstage Mirror Maze, which kids of all ages can enjoy, together with parents. It is very exciting to walk through the hallways surrounded by your reflection, surprising corners and paths, and to try not to walk in circles.
After this exciting experience, you can go and watch one of the shows, or wait for the unforgettable fireworks.
Website: https://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/ Address: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-7445 Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Cost: $$ - $$$
3. SkyWheel Myrtle Beach
The best observation deck that you will find in the state, allows you to see the entire city and all the way to the horizon. Any time of the day is beautiful to go on a ride, especially on bright sunny days. But if you can, try going in the evening right before sunset, so you can enjoy the red sky and lighting of the city.
The SkyWheel consists of 42 closed and air-conditioned gondolas that can fit 2 – 6 people at once. If you choose the VIP experience, know that it seats only 4 people in each gondola. The great thing is that only your family will be in the gondola, and even if you don’t get the VIP ticket you won’t have any strangers there and it is a completely private experience.
Everyone can get the best view, and little kids won’t have their view blocked, which is great. Service animals are allowed, and it is accessible. The ride lasts about 10 minutes, and it is important to try to get the best time or book in advance.
You can also stay after the ride and get something special in their souvenir shop, or grab dinner or drinks in the LandShark Bar & Grill onsite restaurant.
Website: https://skywheelmb.com/ Address: 1110 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-3755 Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Cost: $$ - $$$
4. Family Kingdom Amusement Park
There are over 38 rides at the park, including a roller coaster, go-karts, a carousel, and rides intended exclusively for little children. The park’s Ferris wheel, the Hurricane, and the Swamp Fox are among the park’s top attractions.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park is appropriate for children of all ages. Furthermore, the park is quite inexpensive. It is free to enter, but if you want to ride any of the rides, you’ll need to purchase individual tickets or a wristband. Individual ride tickets are $1.15 (plus tax), with some rides requiring several tickets.
Adults and children may purchase all-day unlimited ride wristbands for $32.95 each. Parking is provided on-site for $9 per vehicle. The park is usually open from late March through early October. Before coming, check the park’s website or contact ahead to confirm hours.
You can spend the whole day here if you want because there are eateries, entertainment, cafes, and places to rest. Visit an arcade, try bumper cars, or let your kids enjoy thrill rides for the first time. The park is within walking distance from the beach and you can do one ride each day of your visit.
Website: https://www.familykingdomfun.com/ Address: 300 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Hours: Hours vary seasonally Cost: $ - $$
5. Alligator Adventure
Alligator Adventure, also known as the Reptile Capital of the World, is home to some of nature’s most ferocious and magnificent creatures. It is one of the world’s largest facilities for reptile life, located near Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach.
Go on a self-guided walking tour of this 15-acre reptile zoo, following a beautiful wetland habitat. You will see over 800 alligators and about 230 other species of animals. Some of the species living here are lizards, frogs, snakes, turtles, lemurs, flamingos, and more.
Daily showings are available where you can see animal feeding, interacting, and learn more about those beautiful creatures. Most of the park is open air, except for a few closed or covered areas, like a frog and lizard house, and a gift shop.
Alligator Live Feedings are available from mid-April through mid-October. You can watch 15-foot alligators burst from the water and smackdown on their prey with their formidable teeth. If a veterinarian is present you can ask questions about alligators or other animals in the zoo.
Alligator Handling and Lecture is a live show where one of the expert lecturers will let you touch a genuine live alligator, take your photo, and teach you all you’ve ever wanted to know about these amazing creatures only a few steps away from where you sit.
Another live show is Snake Handling. Join the crowd in the amphitheater and learn about snakes that live here. This might be scary if you are afraid of snakes, but for kids, it can be the ultimate adventure.
Website: https://alligatoradventure.com/ Address: Highway 17 Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 Hours: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Cost: $ - $$
6. Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing, located along the Intracoastal Waterway, is one of the most distinctive and popular shopping, eating, and entertainment venues in the area.
The picturesque Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach is home to national retailers, charming boutiques, an outstanding array of restaurants and cafés, as well as thrilling entertainment and amusement options. There is always something exciting to look forward to, including unique events held throughout the year.
During the summer season, there is a popular SummerFest going on here, with live music events, theatrical performances, and so much more. Even off-season there are music shows here often and it is worth checking out even in wintertime.
Barefoot Landing also has attractions that little ones love, like the carousel which is a replica of a long-gone Barnum & Bailey carousel. It includes 41 animals cast from genuine molds and has beautiful vibrant colors that look great in pictures.
In Barefoot Amusement there are several kiddie rides for the smaller children, while LuLu’s Arcade and Ropes Course is for kids of all ages. They can enjoy trying to conquer 26 obstacles in 48 feet tall rope construction.
For many visitors, the highlight of Barefoot Landing is Alabama Theater with shows on the same level of entertainment as in New York or Vegas. The Temptations, Four Tops, Josh Turner & the Oak Ridge Boys are among the artists performing as part of the theater’s Guest Artists Concert Series.
Website: https://www.bflanding.com/ Address: 4898 Highway 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582-5353 Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost: $$ - $$$
7. Big Air Trampoline Park
Do you want to wake up your inner child? Or do your kids have a lot of energy? Visit Big Air Trampoline Park for a short one-hour jumping spree or a full day of fun. Big Air enthusiasts can even purchase yearly tickets and visit different parks across the country.
Big Air Trampoline Park is a great place for energetic kids to have a good time. With their friends and siblings, they can play, try the zipline, climb and dunk basketballs while flying in the air. You may have a good time as a family, have gatherings, and even throw birthday parties here.
Jumping on a trampoline may help youngsters improve their brain and mental skills in addition to helping them grow and strengthen their muscles. The children can also assist in strengthening their hearts through exercise by jumping.
Big Air Trampoline Park has a range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including Cosmic Nights, Toddler Time, Foam Pit, Dodgeball, Battle, and more. All ages are welcome, although jumping on trampolines is not recommended for kids younger than 6 by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Tickets are not very cheap when the entire family is visiting the park, with full-day tickets being priced at $30 per person, and one-hour tickets being $17 per person. You also have to buy grip socks that are sold at $30 per pair, and those are the only permitted socks in the park.
Website: https://www.bigairusa.com/myrtlebeach/ Address: 3820 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-4833 Hours: Hours may vary Cost: $$ - $$$
8. Broadway Grand Prix Family Race Park
The Broadway Grand Prix Family Race Park is a place where people of all ages can race. There are seven go-kart courses available, featuring the most popular ones like the Pro Track, Slick Track, Kids Track, and Speed Racer.
Children’s favorites are Pro-Tow, Carousel, The Grand Prix Express, and Kiddie Speedway. Two mini-golf courses, a rock climbing wall, bumper boats, the arcade, and the SkyCoaster will keep kids of all ages entertained all day.
Certain courses and rides have height limits, so check them out before organizing your day. Ticket prices are also set up depending on height. Toddler Band (36″ to 39”) is $15, and you can buy it in the park only. Rookie Band (40″ to 47”) is $40, or $37 if you buy it online. While Pro and Intermediate Band (48” and up) are $50 or priced at $47 for purchases online.
Broadway Grand Prix has unveiled a fresh new Arcade for 2021, spanning 20,000 square feet and including over 90 arcade games such as Nerf, Lane Master, Hot Wheels, and Ice Ball. The new Max Flight Simulator is already a popular attraction in the park.
When you need a break you can visit a snack bar that serves kid-friendly options, as well as nachos, burgers, fries, beer, and pizza.
Website: https://broadwaygrandprix.com/ Address: 1820 21st Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-7472 Hours: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Cost: $$ - $$$
9. Myrtle Waves Water Park
Who doesn’t like a good waterpark? Even with the beach so close, a day in a waterpark is a must, especially when you have a place like this close by. Myrtle Waves Water Park is often visited by locals even more than by tourists, and in summer it can get pretty crowded.
The Rockin’ Ray, Turbo Twisters, Arooba Tooba, Riptide Rockets, Super Chute, Night Flight, the Ocean in Motion Wave Pool, Thunderbolt Speed Slides, Snake Mountain, and the Lazy River are among the more than 24 slides and attractions at Myrtle Waves.
On a Tsunami, experience the exhilaration of riding a wave. The only FlowRider in South Carolina offers a fun, safe platform for both young and old to try out the surfing lifestyle. Bubble Bay, Saturation Station, and the Racin’River are all great places for kids to splash and play!
Relax in the pool, relax on a chair, or hire a cabana. Myrtle Waves is an all-day, family-friendly attraction that you must see on your holiday. At the Beer Garden, adults may enjoy beer, other beverages, and appetizers.
Website: https://www.myrtlewaves.com/ Address: 3000 Mr. Joe White Ave, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-6707 Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost: $ - $$
10. Shake Wake Park
Shark Wake Park is a family-friendly watersports location in Myrtle Beach. It is also one of the largest water obstacle courses on this side of the country, as well as a cable park where you can wakeboard, kneeboard, and water ski without needing a boat.
On Obstacle Island, you can dive, jump, and splash. Explore giant inflatables with monkey bars, climbing towers, and slippery slides. It is a huge floating playground, and an excellent location for kids to play.
At Cable Park, even beginners with no expertise can easily learn to wakeboard or kneeboard thanks to the state-of-the-art cable system. At the same time, skilled riders and pros may go as big as they wish.
Website: https://sharkwakepark.com/843/ Address: 150 Citizens Cir, Little River, SC 29566 Hours: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Hours may vary) Cost: $ - $$
Conclusion
When you find all the awesome things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids, you have to start planning your trip. Swimming, making sandcastles, or enjoying amazing food and fun on the shore, is all part of this popular holiday spot.
