By Lisa Mooney
Back in the 1950s and '60s Myrtle
beach, South Carolina, was known as a summer hot spot that shed the last of its tourists after Labor Day and didn't "re-open" until spring break. Times have definitely changed for the Grand Strand as it is now a year-round destination. The advent of Barefoot Landing, Broadway on the Beach, high-rise hotels and condominiums has transformed Myrtle Beach. The winter season offers beachcombers a variety of activities both on and off the water.
Alligator Adventure
The mild winter of Myrtle Beach makes for a comfortable and exciting visit to its unique "Alligator Adventure" park. Here you will find more than 800 alligators relaxing just feet away from you as you make your way around. Plenty of other animals make their home in the park as well, including zebras, river otters, exotic birds including Macaws and Toucans, and large cats including Siberian Tigers. It is, however, its diverse displays of reptiles that garner the most attention. Among these amazing creatures is UTAN, who at more than 20 feet long is believed to be the largest crocodile housed in the United States. Look also for the huge Galapagos tortoises and visit the Serpentarium to see a giant Green Anaconda, other snakes and various frogs, lizards and turtles. The address is Hwy 17 at Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Call (843) 361-0789 for more information.
NASCAR Speedpark
Everyone knows NASCAR is big in the South. Myrtle Beach loves racing and provides fans with a NASCAR Speedpark to let them live out their fast-track fantasies. A visit here will allow you to drive small-scale versions of the NASCAR racers on seven different tracks. Choose one or more that suits you as they are designed to provide a realistic experience for everyone from "pros" to "rookies" to children. In addition to the racing fun, you can enjoy a round of miniature golf, watch the kids enjoy bumper boats and kiddie rides, play in the arcade, and shop for NASCAR clothing and merchandise in their on-site store. NASCAR Speedpark is located at 1820 21st Ave N, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The phone number is (843) 918-8725.
House of Blues
Take in the "House of Blues" some winter evening while vacationing in the Grand Strand. Here, you can relax and enjoy soulful music in a unique atmosphere. The "House" can be found along the "White Pointe Swash" expanse of coast, which is alleged to have been a favored haunt of pirates including Anne Bonney and "Blackbeard" Teach. The blues building is unusual as well, as it appears to be a large farmhouse with an adjacent tobacco warehouse. You'll find nods to the Delta inside. Plan to spend an evening as there is in-house dining as you await the show. Many top blues musicians play the House of Blues often. For specific show information, call (843) 272--3000. The physical address is
4640 Highway 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Broadway at the Beach
"Broadway at the Beach" is a mini universe of its own. Those enjoying a winter getaway to Myrtle Beach can enjoy this little world of shopping, dining, amusements and unique attractions. Make it an all-day affair by browsing through stores such as the authentic "Out of Africa," the old-fashioned "The General Store" and the funky "The Mole Hole." Dine in a rock 'n roll atmosphere at the "Hard Rock Cafe," have a cheeseburger in paradise at Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville or enjoy fresh ocean favorites at Joe's Crab Shack. Complete your adventure by enjoying a journey through "MagiQuest" or screening a film at the "IMAX 3D Theatre." Broadway at the Beach is located at 1325 Celebrity Circle (U.S. Highway 17 Bypass and 21st Avenue North. Find out more by calling (800) FUN-INMB (386-4662) or visiting the website broadwayatthebeach.com.
Resources
About the Author:
Lisa Mooney has been a professional writer for the past 18 years. She has worked with various clients including many Fortune 500 companies such as Pinkerton Inc. She has written for many publications including Woman's World, Boy's Life and Dark Horizons. Mooney holds bachelor's degrees in both English and biology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.