Myrtle Beach, known as the Golf Capital of the World, hosts more than 80 championship golf courses, offers year-round golfing weather, and views that can’t be beaten. But golf isn’t the only attraction that lures visitors to our vibrant, coastal city. Myrtle Beach is ripe with cultural experiences including historical sites, museums, and an impressive collection of art galleries. Whether you’re resting those tired muscles after a day on the fairway or embracing a rainy day, you’ll find plenty of off-the-green adventures here.
A Walk through History
Get lost in the annals of time at the Horry County Museum. Located in Conway, a short drive from Myrtle Beach, this museum offers a glimpse into the county’s intriguing past. Exhibitions cover local flora and fauna, the area’s involvement in the American Civil War, and a mesmerizing aquarium with the diverse aquatic life of the Waccamaw River.
Just a few blocks away, the Conway Glass Center adds a touch of artistic history to your visit. The center not only showcases beautiful glass blown pieces, but also provides glass blowing demonstrations where guests can watch master craftsmen at work.
Artistic Gems
A short drive down U.S. Route 17 will lead you to Murrells Inlet, where you’ll find the Brookgreen Gardens. Known for its incredible display of American figurative sculpture, Brookgreen Gardens also boasts picturesque walking paths dotted with ancient oaks and blooming flowers. The Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve on the property presents intimate opportunities for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
In the heart of Myrtle Beach, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum pulls visitors into a world painted with southern history, culture, and charm. Best of all, it is completely free. From contemporary exhibits to historical retrospectives, the museum is a sanctuary for all things creative.
Cultural and Natural Exhibitions
If natural history is your preference, visit the Myrtle Beach State Park Nature Center. This center combines nature and education by offering informative exhibitions on the beach’s flora and fauna. The park itself offers a natural respite with its seaside forest, a vintage fishing pier, and a lively campground.
Not far from Myrtle Beach is the most stunning plantation on the river, the beautiful Hobcaw Barony. This historic property is a dream for history buffs with its preserved lands, antebellum mansion, and rich history steeped in Native American, African American, and European cultures.
Myrtle Beach’s culture blends seamlessly into its natural landmarks, abundant with rich history and preserved artifacts, making your visit an enlightening extension of your golf getaway. Whether you’re here for the golf or the history, the art or the sea, Myrtle Beach will captivate and involve you in its vibrant cultural fabric.
To conclude, Myrtle Beach offers much more than just world-class golf courses. After a day of swinging under the sun, dive into the region’s culture with the local museums, historical sites, and art galleries. The historical richness and artistic soul of this coastal city are as compelling as its turquoise sea views and golf greens. Happy swinging, exploring, and indulging in all the cultural experiences Myrtle Beach offers!
Who knew that Myrtle Beach has so much to offer aside from mind-blowing golf courses?! Brookgreen Gardens sounds right up my alley with its incredible display of American figurative sculpture and the nature preserve. I’ll definitely be hitting up that place on my trip next week. Also, ‘Happy swinging, exploring, and indulging’ – love that line! Anyone got recommendations for post-golf grub?
I was just out at Myrtle Beach last month! The golfing was fantastic, as always, but on a whim, decided to check out the Horry County Museum and was quite pleasantly surprised. Def enlightening to get a taste of the region’s rich history. Had no idea about the Conway Glass Center though – maybe next time!