Independence Day 2020 is on course to take on a whole new meaning.
After months of lockdown, the world has begun to open up. We’re gaining access to places and activities that we’ve been dreaming about since early March. Lunch in restaurants with friends. Visits with family. Trips to Myrtle Beach for fun in the sun.
We have a lot to be thankful for and to celebrate this year, after some pretty difficult hurdles before us. As our optimism grows, it’s time to start putting together plans to escape to Myrtle Beach and celebrate both our nation’s independence – and our own.
We’ve put together some suggestions for the holiday weekend. But first, let’s take a quick look at why we’re celebrating in the first place.
Why do we celebrate Independence Day?
Always on July 4, and often called The Fourth of July, Independence Day commemorates the publication of the declaration of independence from Great Britain in 1776. You’ll notice a whole lot of patriotism and family get-togethers, with cookouts, outdoor activities, and fireworks.
Did you know:
- The first Independence Day was celebrated on July 8, 1776, and the declaration of independence wasn’t signed until Aug. 2. We celebrate July 4 because that’s the day the Continental Congress approved final wording.
- Calvin Coolidge, America’s 30th president, was born on July 4.
- John Hancock was the only one who signed the document on July 4. The other 55 signatures came later.
4 awesome attractions to visit in Myrtle Beach
Did you know that attractions in Myrtle Beach are open now? That means with a little social distancing, we can all get out and enjoy some of the places we love to visit here. Or, maybe you’ve never been – which is a perfect reason to visit!
Myrtle Beach State Park
It’s 312 acres of beach access, camping sites, and more, through a picturesque drive through native forest. Grill dinner on-site, or gather your family in a sheltered picnic area. Walk right to the beach from your campsite on one of many trails. Take your fishing tackle to the pier and cast a line. Or take a guided hike with a park ranger. Your admission cost will allow you access to nearby Huntington State Park, the same day.
Don’t miss this: Nature Center
Learn about the beauty and diversity of Myrtle Beach. Visit the reptile habitat and saltwater aquarium, and check out the backyard wildlife sanctuary.
Ripley’s Aquarium
Website | 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 | (843) 916-0888
You’ll love this place! Check out all the cool marine life, with kid-friendly exhibits and dive tours. Kids of all ages will make memories of a lifetime at Ripley’s. Check the website for live show schedules, and be sure to drop by the Cargo Hold Gift Shop. The friendly staff will help make sure you’re having a blast – and you’ll learn a lot of cool things, too. The Shark Tunnel is a one-of-a-kind experience, too.
Don’t miss this: Penguin Encounters
Penguin Encounters. It’s part of a conservation effort for African Penguins. It features a 360-degree crawl tunnel to immerse yourself in the penguin life.
Skywheel
Website | 1110 North Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
This 187-foot observation wheel is one of the tallest in the U.S. At the center of The Boardwalk, Skywheel offers unmatched views of Myrtle Beach in climate-controlled enclosures. One ride includes multiple rotations, so you’ll have plenty of time to get unbelievable photos. Plus, you’re right in the middle of it all in Myrtle Beach, with plenty of shops and restaurants for before or after your spin!
Don’t miss this: VIP Flight
Go first-class in the VIP gondola. Ride in style in Ferarri leather seats through the glare-free glass and a glass-bottom floor. VIPs get double the time in the Skywheel, too.
Wonderworks
Website | 1313 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
There’s something for everyone at Wonderworks, a haven of “edu-tainment,” with more than 100 hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, ziplining and a ropes course, and other experiences, such as the inversion tunnel and wonder zones. You don’t even have to be a kid to enjoy it all. You can easily spend an hour here.
Don’t miss this: 6D XD Extreme Motion Ride
What happens when you combine 3D film with special effects and full-motion seating? An unbelievable ride. This thrill ride rotates experiences, so check the website for features.
And tons of beach activities
Here are 10, in fact, for you to enjoy on Independence Day weekend.
- Rent a jet ski at Myrtle Beach Watersports or Island Adventure Watersports.
- Hit the high seas with a ride on Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise.
- Take a ride on a go-kart at Fun at The Track.
- Get into a kayak excursion with Gator Bait Adventures.
- Tour the Waccamaw River with Waccamaw River Nature & Wildlife Tours.
- Search for sharks’ teeth along the 60 miles of wide, sandy beaches.
- Fly above the waves on a parasail experience with Downwind Sails Watersports.
- Fish for sea bass aboard a charter with Crazy Sister Marina.
- Travel with flair on a banana boat cruise with Express Watersports.
- Scale the mini-golf mountain at Mt. Atlanticus Mini Golf.
Make plans today
Independence Day will be here before you know it! Plan out your Myrtle Beach getaway today, and come have fun in the sun.
