Myrtle Beach: Where culture, coastlines, and creativity collide
Myrtle Beach: where you can explore history, create art, and toast to good times
When you're on vacation, do you love diving into the local arts, culture, and vibrant activities? In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you’ll be spoiled with choice. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or just curious to explore something new, this destination is packed with unforgettable experiences for the whole family all year long. Myrtle Beach welcomes Canadians with open arms, offering not only 100 kilometres of stunning coastlines, but also creative adventures that make every visit feel like home.
Stroll Through Conway’s Artful Downtown
Just a short drive from Myrtle Beach’s sandy shores, Conway’s historic downtown invites you to slow down and take it all in. Nestled along the scenic Waccamaw River, this charming town boasts a rich history and a vibrant arts scene.
Explore unique shops, cozy cafés, and colorful murals that bring the streets to life. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the latest additions—like Teal Alley, a mural project that pays homage to Coastal Carolina University and the train mural at Kingston Park—which add splashes of creativity to every corner.
Unleash your own inner artist by trying a glass-blowing workshop, where you can craft a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your trip. Or, take a leisurely kayaking tour along the river and soak up the natural beauty that surrounds this artistic hub.
Step Back in Time with a Cultural Twist
For a dose of local heritage, visit the Horry County Museum, home to exhibits that bring the region’s history to life—from Native American culture and military artifacts to local wildlife. One standout is a 4,400-gallon freshwater aquarium with freshwater fish that can be found in their local rivers and lakes - so impressive it was even featured on Animal Planet’s Tanked.
Nearby, the L.W. Paul History Farm offers a glimpse of rural life from the early 1900s to 1955. Stroll through a recreated country store, interact with farm animals like horses, pigs, and chickens, and experience authentic homesteads that might just serve you a refreshing glass of fresh lemonade. It’s the perfect blend of history and culture, with hands-on experiences that bring the past to life for visitors of all ages. But be warned—you may find yourself tempted to trade your laptop for a butter churn and a rocking chair!
Soak in the Artistic Vibes at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum
If your eyes aren’t already dazzled by natural beauty, head to the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. With 11 galleries rotating throughout the year, you’ll discover everything from textiles and photography to sculptures and paintings. Artist receptions, workshops, and classes for all ages offer a chance to embrace your creative side. It’s one of the finest art museums in South Carolina, and the only place where you’re encouraged to stare at a wall for hours.
If you’re in the mood to explore the creative side of Myrtle Beach, the Arts & Gallery Trail is the perfect place to start. This self-guided experience features the Myrtle Beach Art Museum plus more than 100 locations. Think local galleries, vibrant murals, and public art installations, all spread out across nearly 100 kilometres of coastline. One of the most exciting sections is the Arts & Innovation District, where bold street art, colourful sculptures, and buzzing creative spaces bring new life to Myrtle Beach’s historic downtown. Whether you're wandering through open-air plazas or stumbling upon tucked-away gems, the trail invites you to explore at your own pace and see the city through an artistic lens.
Wine Down with a Family Story at La Belle Amie Vineyard
After a day filled with arts and culture, it’s time to “wine down” at La Belle Amie Vineyard—where every sip comes with a story. This enchanting vineyard offers tastings, live music events, and the chance to stroll through history itself.
La Belle Amie’s family roots trace back to the south of France, where the wine-making tradition began. Today, visitors can savour Gifford’s Red—named for the beloved Uncle Gifford—and learn about the family’s legacy, from century-old grapevines to hurricane survival stories. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a bottle, or two, and a few new friends along the way.
A Perfect Ending—and a Place Where You Belong
With 100 kilometres of shoreline, vibrant cultural experiences, and a rich sense of community, Myrtle Beach offers more than just a beach escape—it offers a place where you truly belong. Start planning your next adventure at VisitMyrtleBeach.ca, where arts, culture, and warm hospitality await. After all, where else can you kayak past murals, pet horses, stare at paintings for hours, and toast with a glass of wine—all in the same day?
All images are courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach - Photoshelter.