Visiting Myrtle Beach with young children can be a real challenge - not because finding something to entertain them will be a problem, but because there are so many activities available, choosing only one would be nearly impossible. They'll want to try them all! Unfortunately, some of the top attractions are a little pricey and might not fit into your budget, especially if you have several children. Luckily, the Grand Strand has miles and miles of beautiful sandy beach, so you can spend a large part of your family vacation engaging in free activities with the kids, like swimming, building sand castles, surf fishing, and collecting shells.
For a treat, or if you have a larger vacation budget, take the kids to some of the famous nearby attractions. Following is a guide to just a few of the kid-friendly ones, along with ticket prices:
Myrtle Waves is a great water park for kids and adults. With 30 rides and water slides, the park offers something for everyone. There's a special kiddie area with a team of lifeguards on duty for added safety. Full day passes are $27 for ages 9 and up, and $20 for ages 3-8 and seniors over 55. Children 2 and under are admitted free.
If you are more of a speed demon than a slip-and-slider, check out NASCAR Speedpark. This racer's dream has a Young Champion's track for kids, and more demanding tracks for teenagers and adults. A 3-story rock climbing wall and an interactive arcade are also on site. For small children, an inside playground and car-themed kiddie rides offer safety and enjoyment. Tickets are $26 per person.
For roller-coaster fun, be sure to check out Family Kingdom, the area's only oceanfront amusement park. The rides range from thrilling coasters to rides for the little ones. You can purchase an armband and ride everything, or purchase tickets only for individual rides. If the adults don't wish to play, they don't have to pay, but they can still enjoy watching the kids having fun.
Captain Hook's Adventure Golf is one of the many amazing mini-golf courses on the Grand Strand. This is a great budget-friendly way to entertain the kids. It's a trip to Neverland, with hidden treasure, secret caverns, villains, fairies, and smoking skulls, and a real bargain at $6.75 per person.
Rainy days need not get you down, especially when you can see an
amazing show and escape the clouds. If you visit Myrtle Beach with
your children, Le Grande Cirque
is is a must-see. Acrobats, clowns, international acts, and trained
animals, along with amazing costumes and dazzling lights, will
spellbind audiences of all ages. Tickets are $10 for ages 3-12, and $28
for adults, and worth every penny! Check the schedule for nightly shows
and matinée.
Magiquest is a 20,000-square-foot indoor magic realm where the players are placed in a fantasy world of mythological creatures and characters. Each player has a magic wand that helps them find secrets and solve mysteries. The tickets are $26 each, but Magiquest offers an unforgettable experience for children. It's like being in a real live adventure video game!
Another indoor treat is the 3-D Imax Theater. The huge screen brings you face-to-face with dinosaurs, sharks, and wild safari animals, presented in 3-D crystal-clear presentations. Kids of all ages will thrill to the realistic images, and the cost is minimal at $7.50. This is another great way to entertain the kids on a rainy day.
Yet another place to take the kids, rain or shine is the South Carolina Children's Museum. A wonderful way for kids to explore, learn, and have fun, the museum offers daytime specials Tuesday through Saturday, with $7 tickets - a lot of fun and entertainment at a nominal price. Even better, on "Toddler Tuesdays," they'll even keep the kids for you!
While you're vacationing at Myrtle Beach, try to take the kids to at least one of these great activities, especially if they become bored with the usual beach fun and need a break. By knowing your kids' interests and preferences, you'll be able to discern which best suits your family and your budget.
This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Holle Abee.
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