When you’ve had your fill of sunshine, shake off the sand from between your toes and head to a growing list of nearby attractions, which you can enjoy at little to no charge.
Groove to the Beat
When the sun dips below the horizon, watch Myrtle Beach come alive with free entertainment. During the summer, you can stroll along the boardwalk and hear live music on three different stages and see other popular Myrtle Beach attractions. Catch regional acts with fresh local sounds nightly at the Pier at Garden City Beach, 10 miles south of the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. On Tuesdays, head two miles inland to Broadway at the Beach to take in some free live entertainment at the shopping and dining complex, then cap off your evening with Broadway's free fireworks display that lights up the night.
Walk on the Wild Side
Head to the northern part of the city to see tigers and other endangered species.
Get nose to whisker with live tigers and other endangered species at the T.I.G.E.R.S. Preservation Station in the north part of the city. You'll have nothing but glass between you and some of the rarest tigers in the world, including a golden tabby and a royal white Bengal. You might want an autograph—some of the animals are TV celebrities—having appeared on Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel. But you'll have to be content with watching them safely on the other side of the glass. Admission to the station and all the exhibits is free, but call ahead.
Indulge in Art
Steep your coastal getaway in local culture by visiting the Franklin G. Burroughs and Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. A slice of history in itself, the museum occupies a spacious 1920s-era beach cottage. Step out onto the observation deck to breathe the sea air and gaze out over the ocean in the distance. This taste of history showcases local and famous artists like Norman Rockwell, sculptures, historical maps of the area, photographs and much more. Exhibits change seasonally, so come back to see what's new.
Get Festive
Myrtle Beach is a city of festivals—no matter what time of year you visit. In the summer, head to the Beach Boogie and BBQ Festival, where you can nosh on savory Carolina-style barbecue. See thousands of twinkling lights during holidays on the Boardwalk. In the fall, Zombie Elvis is back from the grave to croon tunes at Fright Nights on the Boardwalk. Besides free entertainment, the festivals roll out food booths, beer gardens and children's activities.
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