Sure, you’ve read multiple books, seen online travel reviews dating back to 1999, and talked to people who went to Myrtle Beach “last year.” Maybe you’ve even been to the Grand Strand before. Great, but you’re still having trouble finding a good source to tell you what’s going on now. If you’re interested in today’s hotspots and what is currently happening in 2016, look no further.
The Tsunami
Myrtle Waves Water Park is debuting its second new ride in as many years. Following last year’s successful opening of “Rockin’ Ray,” the “Tsunami” opens this summer and offers those who are looking for fun in the water a great opportunity to sample the thrill of riding the waves. No need to head for high ground—embrace the waves and boogie board through them in a safe setting. Using the FlowRider® system, novices and even professionals can catch wave after wave and perfect their surfing skills.
Cirque Extreme
Death-defying acrobats, amusing clowns and amazing stunts await your family at Cirque Extreme, the newest show at the Palace Theatre. You’ll be in awe as you watch these remarkable master performers enact incredible feats. Whether it’s the motorcycles that race around inside the Globe of Doom at 60mph or the skilled acrobats who can balance on chairs stacked high above the stage, people of all ages will sit on the edge of their seats, mesmerized by these daring acts. It’s a show you won’t soon forget.
Nature Connects: LEGO® Bricks Sculpture
For something completely out of the ordinary, visit Brookgreen Gardens to see “Nature Connects: LEGO® Bricks Sculpture.” Flip to page 94 to read more about the gardens and this impressive exhibit.
Dinosaurs: The Exhibition
One of the most anticipated films of last year, Jurassic World, ignited a dinosaur frenzy across the nation. Here in Myrtle Beach, an amazing new exhibit has opened at Broadway at the Beach. “Dinosaurs: The Exhibition” is an interactive display of creatures from the Jurassic age. Where else can you ride a Triceratops or come face-to face with a moving T. rex? Watch out for his tail! Junior paleontologists can dig for fossils, and dinosaur play areas will enthrall younger dinosaur hunters. Plan to catch this attraction now, as it (like the dinosaurs themselves) won’t be around forever!
Planet Jellies
Planet Jellies opened in 2015 at the very popular Ripley’s Aquarium and should not be missed. The beauty of these spineless water creatures, particularly when showcased in the thousands, is mesmerizing. Did you know that jellyfish have multiple brains? That’s hard to believe as you watch them bob in the water, but it’s true! This exhibit even has a place where you can pet a jellyfish without fear of being stung. It’s definitely an interesting sensation. Planet Jellies will certainly leave you with an “out-of-this-world” feeling.
Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach may not look the same to those who have visited in the recent past. That’s because a few new places have sprung up in the last year. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy 40 taps and high-quality fare at the new brewery, American Tap House. If you’re a die-hard sports fan and like to play hard, the new Dave & Buster’s, opening in 2016, is right up your alley with games to play as you eat and watch sports. Culinary aficionados will delight in The Paula Deen Store, which opened summer of 2015. Shop her latest line of cookware, recipe mixes, cookbooks and more. Every once in awhile, Paula even Skypes the store to chat with lucky shoppers.
Zip-Lining
If you haven’t tried zip-lining yet, Myrtle Beach has a couple of great courses to choose from like Soar and Explore at WonderWorks and Go Ape. The newest of them all is Radical Ropes, which features eight zip lines that let you soar through the trees at heights of 70 feet. However, that’s not the only activity available at Radical Ropes. Try the Aerial Adventure Park and navigate your way through obstacles made up of ropes and logs that are 55 feet above the ground. Or, take a leap of faith after scaling a 70-foot rock wall. There is also a 15-foot (maximum) children’s zip line, KidZipz. It’s a great way to introduce young thrill seekers to zip-line courses.
The Track – Go-kart Racing
Myrtle Beach’s newest attraction lets speed demons unleash their energy in racecars, go-karts and other fast-paced rides. Families can compete against each other on one of the two multi-level, elevated tracks. There is also a rookie track for those who want to take a test-spin and a kiddie track for the younger racers in the group. An arcade and other amusements will entertain kids and adults alike for hours.