When the weather takes a turn for the dreary during your family vacation in Myrtle Beach, have no fear – there are plenty of fun indoor activities to keep everyone happy and entertained!
Though the sunny shores and lazy river rides are hard to beat, a rainy day offers the perfect chance to explore some of the area’s great museums, arcades, indoor mini golf, and more. In this blog post, we’ll highlight five family-friendly spots that will make any washed-out day memorable. So grab those rain boots and umbrellas, and let’s take a look at how your family can make the most of a rainy day in this classic beach town!
Ripley’s Aquarium
Our first rainy-day recommendation is Ripley’s Aquarium. Located at Broadway at the Beach, this three-level aquatic wonderland offers a unique journey into the fascinating world of marine life. Get up close and personal with graceful stingrays in a safe, supervised setting. The experience is visually stunning and interactive, providing ample opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration. Be sure not to miss their sweetest and newest exhibit, Sloth Valley. The charming personalities of the sloths in Sloth Valley make it evident why they have become beloved member of the animal kingdom. 
The real highlight of Ripley’s Aquarium is the breathtaking underwater 340-foot-long tunnel. This immersive experience transports you into a vibrant underwater world, offering face-to-face encounters with sharks, sea turtles, and many other sea creatures. It’s as close as you can get to diving deep into the ocean without getting wet! In addition, the aquarium features multiple play areas specially designed to engage children’s imaginations while providing educational insights about marine life.
Hoppy Parent Tip- Check out their website for purchasing discounts for the numerous Ripley Attractions in Myrtle Beach. One of our boys loved using their QR Code to complete a scavenger hunt throughout the aquarium.
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
During one of our recent rainy beach days this week, we had a great lunch at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. They have a diverse and kid-friendly menu featuring burgers, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and more, ensuring there is something for everyone. The atmosphere was lively and entertaining, with tropical decorations adorning every corner.
Our boys enjoyed the kid’s Hand-Battered Chicken Tenders and the Key West Chicken Quesadilla along with Parakeet Punch. Meanwhile, we savored the delectable Grilled Fish Tacos and Grilled Chicken Sandwich, quenching our thirst with an ice-cold Landshark.
While we waited for our food, we were entertained by the balloon animal maker on stilts, skillfully crafting crazy hats and cute dogs for the kids. The musical and festive environment truly transported us to a tropical island, making it feel like more than just a regular lunch outing. We all left Margaritaville satisfied and happy with big smiles, full bellies, and fond memories.
Hoppy Parents Tip- Check their websites for specials, online deals, and restaurant check-ins to skip the line.
Wonder Works
Wonder Works is another excellent rainy-day beach option. This exciting indoor amusement park spans over 41,000 square feet of entertainment and hands-on exhibits. Step into the Extreme Weather Zone and brace yourself against hurricane-force winds or experience sub-zero temperatures that recreate the icy waters where the Titanic sank. 
In the Space Discovery Zone, immerse yourself in outer space as you learn about space travel, step inside an authentic astronaut suit, and even take a virtual trip to Mars. For those seeking a physical challenge, head to the Physical Challenge Zone to lie down on a bed of nails, play with giant bubbles and experience thrilling 6D XD movies that burst into your senses.
Other favorites include the Light and Sound Zone, where you can see sound waves dance through the air, and the Far Out Art Gallery, home to optical illusions and mind-bending perspective tricks. With so many interactive exhibits to keep you engaged, Wonder Works is an indoor amusement park full of discovery for visitors of all ages. No matter your interests, you’ll find hands-on fun and learning around every corner.
Hoppy Parent Tip- You could easily spend 3+ hours here, so pack a snack and some water so the fun doesn’t have to stop!
Ripley’s Crazy Golf
If you’re looking for a quick, fun indoor activity on a super hot summer or rainy beach day that the whole family can enjoy, head to Ripley’s Crazy Golf. This exciting mini-golf course features three levels and 18 unique holes that will provide hours of entertainment.
What makes Ripley Crazy Golf special is the creative and imaginative hole designs. As you go through the course, you’ll putt through everything from Plinko Boards and giant chess sets to using your golf club as a pool stick and even riding a zipline swing.
No hole is like the one before it, so you never know what to expect next. The variety keeps the game super exciting for experienced golfers and newbies alike. Kids will love the course’s colorful, glowing neon atmosphere, making you feel like you’re playing inside a giant funhouse. Adults will enjoy the challenge of traversing the three levels where holes span multiple stories.
A great feature at Ripley’s Crazy Golf is that there is no need to calculate the score or leaderboard manually. You can use their QR Code to keep track of each player’s score at each hole, input the numbers, and their website does the rest! If you need a break from putt-putt, grab a water, soda, or other beverage at the Par Bar and refuel before tackling the rest of the course.
Dave & Busters
Finally, our last rainy day suggestion is a visit to Dave & Buster’s. Brighten your spirits with a trip to Dave & Buster’s – the perfect indoor escape! Our boys were thrilled as soon as we stepped foot into the vibrant arcade wonderland. With beaming smiles, they darted from one game to another, delighting in the array of arcade classics and cutting-edge virtual reality experiences.
Amidst the gaming frenzy, we managed to take a break and treat ourselves to a delicious lunch. The delectable dishes served at Dave & Buster’s restaurant satisfied our taste buds and provided a much-needed energy boost to keep the fun going. It was a day filled with laughter, excitement, and precious family moments we will cherish forever.
Don’t waste a precious vacation day stuck inside just because it’s raining. Get out with your umbrellas and rain boots to discover these great rainy-day attractions. No matter the weather, you’re sure to create special memories. The next rainy day, revisit this list and embark on an indoor adventure with your crew. Before you know it, the sun will be out again for beachfront fun.
Keep crafting family memories, one hop at a time!
We’d love to hear about your local recommendations! Please share them with us below!