Explore History and Contemporary Art in Myrtle Beach

With 60 miles of coastline and 14 unique communities to explore, there’s a whole lot of culture to uncover at The Beach.

Rolling Through History 

Learning about Myrtle Beach’s cultural significance is as easy as hopping on a trolley tour. Discover The Beach’s role in film and musical history, delve into the details of World War II, or hear ghostly tales preserved by locals as you visit historical sites. 

Stories of Gullah-Geechee Heritage 

All along the Carolina coast, enslaved Africans shaped the many rice and indigo plantations, and their Gullah-Geechee descendants have been passing down their traditions for generations. Experience this rich, local culture firsthand at Hopsewee Plantation, a private residence listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Artist, historian and storyteller Zenobia Harper shares stories of how enslaved people brought prosperity to colonial South Carolina, and Gullah descendant Vera Manigault teaches the fine art of weaving sweetgrass baskets. 

Spotlights on Southern Art 

Stunning works are always on display at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. With 11 rotating galleries, exhibitions feature Southern art, historical artifacts and juried art exhibits. Hands-on art classes and a pottery studio complete this enriching experience. 

Life in the Lowcountry 

Southern culture is at the heart of Horry County Museum and L.W. Paul Living History Farm. Learn about life on a Carolina farm from 1900 to 1955 and about notable figures, including Waccamaw Indians and Revolutionary War heroes. 

Art and the Outdoors 

Take a stroll around Brookgreen Gardens, one of the top 10 public gardens in the U.S. according to Tripadvisor. The beauty of the Carolina coast is in full view as you walk under towering live oak trees, roam around the Butterfly Garden and admire the vibrant Lowcountry Trail. Brookgreen Gardens is also home to the country’s largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculptures with rotating exhibits that showcase world-class works.   

An American Castle 

A castle at The Beach? Just inside Huntington Beach State Park, Atalaya Castle stands as the past winter home of philanthropist and scholar Archer Milton Huntington and sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington (whose work is displayed at the entrance of Brookgreen Gardens). Exquisite Moorish Revival architecture is a sight to behold, and you’ll learn about the home’s significant history as a residence for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. 

A Cultural Foray 

Just outside of Myrtle Beach, the city of Conway is a cultural enclave worth exploring. Along roads lined by towering oaks, look for downtown district buildings that are on the National Register of Historic Places. You can’t miss the collection of colorful murals, starting with a depiction of the old F. G. Burroughs steamboat on Main Street. 

After you are drawn in by The Beach, you’ll be delighted to discover an abundance of live music, comedy shows and family-friendly entertainment. Get your fill and explore Myrtle Beach’s history, art and culture.

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