Overview
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Few oceanfront sights are as well-loved as a Boardwalk teaming with families, cotton candy, hot dogs, and amusement park rides. Nothing says “summer” quite like a visit to an iconic seaside boardwalk; in fact, great songs have been written in its honor. For many years, Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk was not up to the standards a world-class vacation destination such as Myrtle Beach deserved. All that changed in 2008 when the city of Myrtle Beach announced plans to develop what is now more than a mile of For many years, Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk was not up to the standards a world-class vacation destination such as Myrtle Beach deserved. All that changed in 2008 when the city of Myrtle Beach announced plans to develop what is now more than a mile of the oceanfront boardwalk. In May 2010, the Boardwalk and Promenade opened to great public fanfare. It was again expanded northward in 2013 and is part of an ongoing revitalization of the downtown Myrtle Beach oceanfront. The award-winning Boardwalk stretches from just south of 2nd Avenue Pier to just north of the 14th Ave Pier.
Places to Eat
When the new Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade were announced, many of the existing businesses, some on the oceanfront for a half-century, announced plans to upgrade. Many more took vacant or failing oceanfront locations and opened brand new restaurants and snack shops. Strolling down the Boardwalk without an ice cream cone, hot dog, slice of pizza, fish sandwich, or a cold soda pop is almost unthinkable.
Myrtle Beach Skywheel
Dominating the skyline in downtown Myrtle Beach since 2011, the 187-foot tall SkyWheel, was, at the time of its completion, the second tallest observation Ferris Wheel in the United States. Visible for miles, especially at night with its elaborate light show, the SkyWheel places riders, up to six at a time, in climate-controlled glass pods, called gondolas,” for a slow, spectacular, spin over the Boardwalk on the oceanfront.
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Gay Dolphin Gift Cove
If you can’t find it on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, you don’t need it! Besides dozens of restaurants, you’ll find souvenir shops, beachwear stores and more, all conveniently located somewhere along the 1.2-mile Boardwalk. The undisputed heart & soul of Boardwalk stores is the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, family-owned and operated at the same location since 1946. Don’t miss it!
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Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odd-itorium
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odd-itorium is a family-friendly museum that is home to tons of cool oddities from around the world, ranging from shrunken heads and a 6-legged cow to scale models of the world’s tallest and shortest humans. This Boardwalk attraction is worth checking out while you’re in Myrtle Beach!
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Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
Get your adrenaline pumping at Ripley’s Haunted Adventure in downtown Myrtle Beach! This fun attraction is currently Ripley’s Haunted Adventure – Laser Strike, where guests must get suited up and take down zombies which have infested the building. Each guest will receive a laser gun to help them make it out alive. This attraction is for ages 8 and up.
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Ripley’s Moving Theater
Ripley’s Moving Theater provides visitors with an unforgettable 5-D virtual reality experience with a state-of-the-art Motion Master system! Sit down, strap into your seat, and get ready for an adventure at this unique movie theater!
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Fun Plaza Arcade
If you’re strolling along the Boardwalk and find yourself looking for some games to play, look no further than the Fun Plaza Arcade! This family-friendly arcade features a variety of new and old-school arcade games that are great for all ages. Win some tickets and turn them in for a cool prize from the prize booth!
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Myrtle Beach Thrill Rides
Myrtle Beach Thrill Rides is home to the SlingShot, located across from the iconic SkyWheel. Along with this scary ride, Myrtle Beach Thrill Rides also boasts The Skyscraper, The Air Strike, The Shooting Star, the Sun Dance, and the Sky Bounce.
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Check out these related entries from our 102 Things To Do in Myrtle Beach guide:
11. Exploring State Parks
Some Myrtle Beach visitors — and even many locals — never make it to our two State Parks. There are plenty of distractions here at the beach, no denying. But those who don’t visit are missing out on two of the jewels of our region, both offering ver …
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67. Downtown Conway
Just miles away from the beach is a whole different world in the historic city of Conway. The city is full of history and Southern charm with lots of shops and restaurants for visitors to check out. Most Myrtle Beach visitors see Conway as a town to pass …
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72. Beachwear Stores
The sun and sand are free, but you need some supplies before you hit the beach. The beach stores dotting corners and roads throughout the Grand Strand have become just as much a part of the vacation experience as the ocean itself. Whether you’re looking …
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75. Tattoos & Piercings
Gift shops are great, but maybe you’re looking for a more permanent memento of your trip to Myrtle beach. Limited by law to a small strip off the beaten path in Myrtle Beach, most area tattoo parlors call Seaboard Street home. Anyone wanting a tattoo or …
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16. Bowling
A classic diversion for both young and old, bowling has long been part of American culture. With a number of bowling alleys in the area, the Grand Strand offers families, friends and couples a wide variety of bowling and entertainment options. Everything …
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05. Jet Ski Rentals
Since the first Jet Skis rolled off the assembly lines in the late 1960s and into America’s lakes, rivers and oceans, watersports got a whole lot more fun. Like motorcycles on the water, jet skis, also called PWC (Personal Water Craft), are fast, fun, a …
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29. Arcades
As old as seaside vacations themselves, arcades, originally called “penny arcades,” have a long-standing tradition of entertaining crowds of all ages. Along the Grand Strand you’ll find games of chance, games of skill, and the unique sights and soun …
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49. Comedy Clubs & Shows
Stand-up comedy is funny on television, but being there is a completely different experience. And there aren’t many better ways to relax at night than checking out a few comedians at a Myrtle Beach comedy club — you’ll completely forget the …
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02. Parasailing
“Fly through the air with the greatest of ease!” Myrtle Beach parasailing captains have made it easy to soar like a bird. And on a beautiful Grand Strand day, the views are out of this world! Let area boat captains and crews launch you slowly, and saf …
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52. Go-Karts
Take a break from the water and test your need for speed on land at a fun go-kart attraction! Those brave enough to take on the cool watersports on our list of 102 Things to Do will also love the feeling of salt air whipping through their hair as they tak …
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10. Boat Cruises
With the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, the numerous boat tours in Myrtle Beach provide a range of entertainment and sightseeing alternatives. From quiet Waterway dinner cruises to exciting casino boat experiences, …
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68. Historic Georgetown
The third-oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown offers a glimpse of the state’s history along with great shopping, dining and scenery. Georgetown is located halfway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston along the Sampit River. The city embraces the Ma …
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