10 South Carolina Tourist Traps To Skip On Your Next Vacation
South Carolina offers beautiful beaches, historic cities, and charming Southern culture.
But not every attraction lives up to the hype.
Some places are overpriced, outdated, or just plain disappointing, leaving travelers wishing they’d spent their time and money elsewhere.
Disclaimer:
All opinions in this piece are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be interpreted as statements of safety, legality, or service quality.
10. South Of The Border, Dillon
Bright billboards promise a fun Mexican-themed wonderland along Interstate 95, but reality rarely matches the advertisement.
Most visitors discover tacky gift shops, mediocre food, and an overwhelming sense of kitsch that feels more dated than delightful.
Save your money and gas by driving past this roadside relic without stopping.
You will find South Of The Border at 3346 US-301, Hamer, South Carolina 29547.
9. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk And SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach
Standing 187 feet tall, this coastal Ferris wheel offers ocean views that sound better than they actually are.
Ticket prices climb high while ride times stay disappointingly short, leaving many families feeling they overpaid for a brief spin.
Better views exist from free beach access points along the shore.
The SkyWheel sits along the oceanfront at 1110 North Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
8. Broadway At The Beach, Myrtle Beach
This sprawling shopping complex promises entertainment but delivers mostly chain restaurants and generic souvenir shops you’ll find anywhere.
Crowds pack the walkways during peak season, making navigation frustrating and parking a nightmare.
Skip the tourist chaos and explore authentic local spots in downtown Myrtle Beach instead.
Broadway At The Beach is located at 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
7. Ripley’s Aquarium Of Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach
Sharks circle overhead in glass tunnels, creating photo opportunities that come with hefty admission fees.
Many exhibits feel smaller than expected, and crowds during summer months make viewing difficult and stressful.
Consider visiting free public beaches where you might spot dolphins and marine life naturally.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is tucked inside the complex at 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
6. WonderWorks, Myrtle Beach
An upside-down building catches your eye from the road, promising science fun and interactive exhibits inside.
Many displays feel dated, and some interactive elements may not work as smoothly as expected.
Your family will find better educational value at South Carolina’s excellent state parks and nature centers.
WonderWorks stands at 1313 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
5. Hollywood Wax Museum, Myrtle Beach
Celebrity wax figures promise glamorous photo opportunities, but many sculptures look more creepy than convincing.
Poor lighting and questionable likeness quality leave visitors wondering if they’re looking at the right celebrity.
Save your admission money for authentic Southern experiences like plantation tours or historic Charleston walks instead.
You will find the Hollywood Wax Museum at 1808 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
4. Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Myrtle Beach
Aging rides and visible wear make parts of the park feel dated compared to newer amusement destinations.
Long lines form for outdated attractions while families pay premium prices for a lackluster carnival experience.
Better beach towns offer more authentic coastal charm without the rundown amusement park atmosphere.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park sits at 300 4th Avenue South, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
3. Charleston City Market, Charleston
Historic charm gets overshadowed by endless rows of mass-produced souvenirs and overpriced trinkets marketed as handmade.
While sweetgrass basket weavers showcase genuine artistry, they’re surrounded by tourist junk that dilutes the authentic experience.
Explore Charleston’s beautiful historic district instead, where real Southern history comes alive.
Charleston City Market stretches out from 188 Meeting Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29401.
2. G*y Dolphin Gift Cove, Myrtle Beach
Claiming to be the largest gift shop on the East Coast sounds impressive until you realize it’s just floors of cheap souvenirs.
Cramped aisles overflow with mass-produced beach trinkets, seashells, and T-shirts you’ll never wear back home.
Support local artisans at smaller coastal shops offering genuine handcrafted items instead.
G*y Dolphin Gift Cove is set along the strip at 916 North Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29577.
1. Freestyle Music Park, Myrtle Beach
This music-themed park closed years ago after financial troubles, yet some outdated travel guides still mention it.
Empty lots and rusting rides serve as reminders that not every tourist attraction survives poor planning and execution.
Research current operating status before visiting any attraction to avoid wasting precious vacation time on closed venues.
The now-closed Freestyle Music Park once stood at 211 George Bishop Parkway, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29579.
