Myrtle Beach isn’t just about summer sun and golf; it’s also a place with stories that stretch back through decades and even centuries. Whether you’re interested in the star-studded past of Mid-20th-century music and movies, the eerie tales of pirates and ghosts, or the area’s military involvement during World War II, Myrtle Beach offers a variety of engaging historical tours. We particularly enjoy the Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour, which weaves together the city’s jazz, blues, and film roots, and provides fascinating stories about Charlie’s Place and the Green Book. This tour showcases how Myrtle Beach’s cultural scene blossomed in the mid-20th century and gives a vivid picture of segregation-era America.
If spooky stories are more your style, the Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour offers a lively look at local legends, haunted landmarks, and pirate lore, all in a climate-controlled trolley. For a focus on military history, the Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour offers a detailed look at the area’s WWII past, including visits to Warbird Park and a military museum within the old Air Force base. Finally, the Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour explores the city’s origins and wartime stories, including the arrival of German POWs.
Below, you’ll find an in-depth look at each tour, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which fits your interests and schedule best.
1. Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour
This tour is perfect for lovers of mid-20th-century culture. The 2-hour Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour takes you through the city’s historic districts, including a stop at Charlie’s Place Historic Site. This club was a major stop on the Chitlin’ Circuit, hosting legendary artists like B.B. King and Sam Cooke, and it’s listed in the Green Book. While the club itself no longer exists, the tour visits Charlie’s home and a reconstructed motel, offering a tangible connection to segregation-era entertainment venues.
What makes this tour stand out is the storytelling. Your guide shares fascinating details about Myrtle Beach’s role in the music and film industries that began flourishing in the 1930s and 40s. The trolley’s climate-controlled environment makes the ride comfortable, and the detailed commentary enriches the experience. Reviewers praise the tour for its wealth of information and the passionate storytelling of guides like Kathryn, who even offers a book about the local movie scene.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Southern jazz and blues, Hollywood’s regional influence, or the Greenwood-era music scene, this tour offers a balanced mix of history and entertainment.
2. Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour
For those who prefer a spookier side of history, this 2-hour Ghosts, Pirates, and Historic Families Tour takes you south to Murrells Inlet, where stories of pirates and restless spirits abound. The tour includes a stop at Brookgreen Gardens’ Gardener’s Cottage, offering a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty and history, and the chance to meet a local artisan at the Hammock Weavers studio.
What truly makes this tour unique is its focus on local legends—pirates who roamed the inlet, haunted landmarks, and stories of historic families who shaped the region. The climate-controlled trolley makes the journey pleasant, and the brief stops at scenic points allow for good photo opportunities. Reviewers note the tour is “very interesting” and appreciated the storytelling prowess of the guides, especially their knowledge of pirate lore and local ghost stories.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who love tales of the supernatural, pirate history, or want a fun, storytelling ride through the past. It’s a great choice for families or anyone interested in the darker, mysterious side of Myrtle Beach.
3. Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour
History comes alive in this detailed 2-hour Military History Trolley Tour. The tour focuses on Myrtle Beach’s role during WWII, when the area was an Air Force Base and Army Air Corps Airfield. You’ll visit Warbird Park, where real military planes—once flown from Myrtle Beach—are on display, and stop at the military museum inside the General Robert H. Reed Recreation Center.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed narration about World War II stories and the local military presence. The tour includes a presentation and snacks at Tupelo Honey, providing a relaxed environment for learning. The tour has received perfect reviews, with visitors praising the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guide. It’s especially suited for military history enthusiasts or families interested in the area’s wartime significance. The tour is limited to small groups, ensuring an intimate experience.
Bottom line: If you want to understand Myrtle Beach’s wartime past and see real planes on display, this tour is a compelling option. It offers a mix of historical insight and local pride.
4. Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour
This tour is tailored for history lovers eager to understand Myrtle Beach’s origins and wartime stories. The 2-hour Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Tour begins at Pines Lakes International Country Club, one of the city’s oldest landmarks, and includes a visit to the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum. Here, you’ll learn about the education of African-Americans from the 1930s to the 1960s, providing context about segregation and community resilience.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on local development, including the arrival of German POWs during WWII. The tour covers the city’s earliest days, its growth during wartime, and the stories behind historic landmarks. Visitors appreciate the well-organized narration and the chance to see key sites in a climate-controlled trolley. Reviewers mention that this tour “really helped us understand how Myrtle Beach was involved with WWII,” and that Katherine, the guide, is both enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for travelers interested in local history, civil rights, and wartime stories, providing a nuanced picture of Myrtle Beach’s multifaceted past.
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour
When deciding which tour suits your interests, consider your preferences for themes, duration, and physical activity. For a detailed look into music, film, and African-American history, the Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour offers a lively narrative in a comfortable setting. If spooky stories or pirate legends are more your style, the Ghosts and Pirates Tour provides an entertaining ride through local legends. For military history enthusiasts, the Military History Tour dives into Myrtle Beach’s WWII role, perfect for those seeking a more educational experience.
Prices are consistent at around $45 per person for each tour, with two-hour durations making them manageable for a half-day activity. Book early in peak season to secure your spot, especially for tours with limited group sizes or special interest themes.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach offers a surprising variety of historical tours that go beyond the typical beach day. Whether you’re into music and movies, haunted stories, military history, or the city’s early days, there’s something that will deepen your understanding of this coastal town. For a balanced experience, the Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Tour is hard to beat for its lively storytelling and cultural insights. For those craving a spooky or adventurous angle, the ghost and pirate tour delivers fun and folklore. Meanwhile, WWII history buffs should look into the military-focused options for a more in-depth exploration.
To make the most of your trip, consider your interests, the time available, and whether you prefer a focus on cultural, military, or spooky stories. Booking your tour in advance is wise, especially during busy seasons, to ensure you don’t miss out. With so many options, you’re sure to find a historical tour in Myrtle Beach that enriches your visit and leaves you with stories to tell long after you leave the coast.