Free Things to Do at Myrtle Beach – 10 Can’t-Miss Activities
Crashing waves, wide swaths of sandy shoreline, and enough live entertainment for the whole family. From searing Intracoastal Waterway views to strolls down a charming fishing pier, every inch of the Grand Strand screams coastal perfection.
Follow along to discover the 10 best free things to do in Myrtle Beach SC. From state parks studded with marine forests and Magnolia trees to jamming out to local bands at Barefoot Landing, there are heaps to do in this South Carolina paradise.
Enjoy free playground fun at Broadway at the Beach, or uncover the secrets of farm life in the 1900s with a visit to the Horry County Museum.
Whether you are in the mood for beaches, museums, or more you’ll never need to break out that wallet when you take on the ultimate free things to do in Myrtle Beach today. If you’re concerned about just how to conquer Myrtle Beach on a budget, read on.
Myrtle Beach Hotels
Before you pack up your beach bag and hit those 60 miles of spotless coastline you’ll need to reserve some epic lodgings. Take advantage of all the free activities in Myrtle Beach when you extend your stay in the Grand Strand.
Stretch your dollar even further when you book any of our best budget-friendly Myrtle Beach hotels. From oceanfront views to lazy rivers and complimentary wifis, our wide selection of accommodations will appeal to every traveler and budget.
As always, make your reservations stress-free knowing you are always guaranteed our lowest rates online. And now, onwards to our list of things to do for free in Myrtle Beach!
Free Things to Do at Myrtle Beach
Boardwalk people-watching, epic kid-approved events, and miles of lush hiking trails. From spotting Pelicans and Egrets in the estuary to free yoga in the park, Myrtle Beach is a veritable wonderland of free attractions and activities.
Whether you’re looking for free things to do with toddlers in Myrtle Beach or the best budget-friendly family activities Myrtle Beach has to offer. We share the best of the best below!
Myrtle Beach State Park – 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach
South Carolina is studded with state parks, but perhaps none is more dazzling than Myrtle Beach State Park. Opened in 1936, this refuge of flora and fauna features a full mile of undeveloped beach in Horry County. While visiting this lush maritime forest may require a small fee, it’s well worth it to bask in nature’s majesty.
Plan to spend a full day exploring the Sculptured Oak Trail, or trying your hand at surf fishing. Pack a swimsuit and cool off with a refreshing beach swim, or keep your eyes peeled for all manner of wildlife. Known for exceptional bridging, visitors may even encounter nesting loggerhead sea turtles, bald eagles, and least terns.
For an extra special treat, budget for an overnight camping adventure and soak in the starry skies come nightfall.
Psst… looking for free things to do in Myrtle Beach this weekend? You’ll want to read this next one.
Market Common – 610 Farrow Pkwy, Myrtle Beach
Rows of Palmetto palms, mouthwatering eats, and unique boutique offerings come together to make Market Common the retail and restaurant oasis of our dreams. While shopping and dining will obviously set you back a few bucks, there’s still tons to do for free.
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For free things to do in Myrtle Beach for kids, bop around with the kiddies and enjoy playground facilities. Or check out their robust event calendar to partake in everything from live jazz to free yoga classes. From the sultry songs of Big Bands to festive International Dance Day celebrations, there’s always something going on.
Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade – Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Nothing screams summer or spring vacation (or Myrtle Beach free things to do!) more than a stroll down the boardwalk. Harness that seaside spirit when you enter this destination of sun and fun. The Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade is a top-tier tourist destination that promises to delight beach babes of all ages.
Soak in the scenery as you make your way through the 1.2-mile-long wooden walkway. Home to a number of shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides it’s all too easy to while away the day window shopping, swimming, and sunbathing. There’s no shortage of free Myrtle Beach activities at the Boardwalk.
Divided into three sections, the boardwalk boasts everything from the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel to Zipline adventures. These extra attractions will cost you, but for more excitement don’t forget to check out the Boardwalk’s event schedule.
Which features loads of family-friendly festivals such as Hot Summer Nights and free kid’s carnivals.
Barefoot Landing – 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach
On the hunt for one of the best free things to do in North Myrtle Beach? No matter if you’re craving live music or simply want to grab a bite to eat, Barefoot Landing is one locale you can’t help but return to.
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Located on the Intercoastal Waterway, this unique shopping, dining, and entertainment plaza is a must-do for tourists and locals alike. From Brewery tours to Alligator Adventures, there’s so much to explore.
Pop into the House of Blues for a night of jamming tunes, or treat your kiddies to a ride on the Barnum & Bailey Carousel. Encounter sweet southern hospitality around every corner, or plan your visit around their spectacular summer offerings which include fireworks!
How about free things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids? Barefoot Landing is home to some of the best free kid activities in Myrtle Beach as well. It hosts a slew of free events throughout the year including strolling kid’s characters for SummerFest, steel drum performers, and Yoga in the Crooked Hammock Brewery.
LW Paul Living History Farm and Horry County Museum – 2279 Harris Short Cut Rd, Conway
Have you been dreaming about that Old McDonald life? Or are you just looking for things to do in Conway SC? Wrangle together some overalls and grab your pitchfork because it’s time to dive headfirst into life on the farm. For over 40 years the Horry County Museum has opened its doors to the public.
Here visitors can take a closer look at the fascinating history, prehistory, and natural ecosystem of Horry County South Carolina. One of the best free things to do in Conway, SC, the museum seeks to educate through its immersive exhibits, outreach programs, and events.
Peruse old artifacts, textiles, and specimens that range from Revolutionary War uniforms to reconstructions of Native American dwellings.
In addition to specimens of American Alligator and Black Bear, aquatically inclined tourists can peek at the museum’s famous freshwater aquarium which was featured on Animal Planet’s hit reality show “Tanked.”
Primed for your tractor debut? Then it’s time to swing by the L. W. Paul Living History Farm. Exploring the Farm is one of the most interesting things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids.
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It’s a real-life recreation of what a one-horse family farm would have been like between the years 1900-1955. Watch farmers plow fields, sharpen blacksmith tools, or groove along to the sounds of the country fiddle.
For a more comprehensive look at Horry County Farm, life be sure to stop by for a free guided tour. These are available every Saturday at 10:00 a.m.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk – 4025 Hwy 17 Business, 4065 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet
Perfectly perched pelicans, gloriously orange-hued sunsets, and a lively Southern atmosphere meld together to make Murrells Inlet MarshWalk an evening respite beyond reproach. Wind down your day of Myrtle Beach fun with a casual stroll down the quaint waterfront boardwalk as you take in the sweeping estuary views and the steady hum of live music.
Located in the historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet, families, couples, and kids of all ages will be in heaven as they browse the shops, dining, and history of this charming enclave. Uncover the history behind the delicious deep-fried hushpuppy, Blackbeard’s booty, ghosts, and more.
Don’t forget to check out the MarshWalk’s event calendar to see what free fun is in store for your visit.
South Carolina Hall of Fame – 2101 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach
A little rusty on your South Carolina history? Pay homage to some of the great political leaders, entertainment titans, and artists of the Palmetto State when you plan an outing to the South Carolina Hall of Fame.
Opened in 2001 to recognize and honor both the past and present achievements of outstanding South Carolina citizens. Past inductees include founding fathers, Civil Rights advocates, and famous musicians such as John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie.
Broadway at the Beach – 1325 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach
Put down the credit card and prime yourself for hours of gratis amusement when you spend an afternoon at Broadway at the Beach. This massive shopping, dining, and entertainment complex is one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular attractions and features oodles of excitement.
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Window shop your way through art galleries, gift stores, and more. Or, delight your mini munchkins with events such as balloon art, face painting, and live music. For an extra special evening, time your visit with the summer fireworks schedule and watch the sky come alive with color.
Franklin G Burroughs Simeon B Chapin Art Museum – 3100 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach
Amazing visual art for no admission fee? Yes, please! Infuse your Myrtle Beach vacation with a bit of culture when you visit one of the finest art museums in the Carolinas. Located at 3100 S Ocean Blvd Myrtle Beach, the Simeon B Chapin Art Museum contains eleven ever-changing galleries.
Take in collections and exhibitions containing textiles, sculptures, ceramics, videos, and collages. Absorbed the intricate detail of historical prints, antique maps, and boldly colored depictions of Southern art.
Consequently, the museum has had the honor of showcasing works from such influential artists as Ansel Adams, Frank Lloyd Wright, Norman Rockwell, John James Audubon, and Jasper Johns.
Mouthwatering crab dinners, luxurious oceanfront resorts, and plenty of golf games can make a dent in your Myrtle Beach vacation budget all too quickly. However, it’s more than possible to cover every inch of the Grand Strand without going into the red.
Soak in sunny beach days of swimming and sandcastle building before you take advantage of free art museum visits or ogle freshwater fish at the Horry tank. Admire paintings that pay homage to Southern Jazz singers. Or achieve a moment of serenity with a complimentary yoga class at Market Common.
No matter if you’re in the mood for live country music or would rather set forth on a treasure hunt of seashells and shark teeth at the State Park. There’s no end to the gratis adventure in the Grand Strand!
Free Things to Do Myrtle Beach FAQs
Is Myrtle Beach State Park Free?
No, Myrtle Beach State Park is not free. There is a small entrance fee per person, which helps maintain the park's facilities and natural resources. The fee varies depending on age and residency status.
Does Barefoot Landing Have Rides?
Barefoot Landing does not have traditional amusement park rides. However, it offers various family-friendly attractions like the T.I.G.E.R.S. Preservation Station, Alligator Adventure, and a carousel. It's more focused on shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.
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