Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour

Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour is a journey into the city’s beginnings and wartime stories that shaped the area. While we haven’t personally experienced it, this tour has earned glowing reviews for its engaging storytelling and well-chosen stops. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy history, military stories, or local culture.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life and the chance to see some of Myrtle Beach’s historic sites from the comfort of a climate-controlled trolley. On the flip side, some might find the trolley’s space a bit tight, especially during busy times, so if you’re sensitive to close quarters, that’s worth considering.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, curious travelers wanting to learn something meaningful about Myrtle Beach beyond its beach vibe, or families interested in local stories. It offers a relaxed pace with educational stops that add context to the city’s past.

Key Points

• In-depth historical focus on Myrtle Beach’s early years and WWII impact.
• Knowledgeable guides who keep the storytelling engaging and informative.
• Comfortable, climate-controlled trolley with a small group size (max 33 travelers).
• Two well-planned stops, including one at Pine Lakes Golf Course and the Colored School Museum.
• Value for money at $45, with reviews praising the depth of info and guide professionalism.
• Cancellable with ease, offering full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

If you’re after a solid, historically themed tour in Myrtle Beach, this trolley experience promises to take you behind the scenes of the city’s past. This isn’t your typical sightseeing trip; it’s a focused look at how Myrtle Beach evolved from its modest beginnings into a tourist haven, with particular emphasis on its role during WWII.

What we love about this tour is the storytelling — the guides are praised for their knowledge and passion, making history feel alive. Plus, the stops at iconic locations like Pines Lakes and the Colored School Museum deepen your understanding of local heritage.

One thing to keep in mind is the trolley’s limited space — reviews mention that seating can be tight, so if you’re bigger or prone to discomfort in close quarters, pack that into your expectations. Otherwise, it’s a short, manageable 2-hour trip that fits easily into a day of exploring Myrtle Beach.

This tour is perfect for those looking for something educational and reflective, especially if you enjoy WWII history or local stories that aren’t always in the guidebooks. It’s also a nice change of pace from beach days, offering a window into Myrtle Beach’s complex past.

About the Tour Itinerary

Stop 1: Pines Lakes International Country Club

Our first stop is at Pines Lakes International Country Club, one of Myrtle Beach’s oldest and most scenic spots. This location sets a tranquil, attractive scene to begin your journey. Here, restroom access is available, which is always helpful.

This stop is about 15 minutes, giving you just enough time to soak in the views and appreciate the early days of Myrtle Beach’s development. While it’s a scenic locale, it’s also a place loaded with history, being one of the city’s initial landmarks. You can expect some background from the guide about the area’s significance, though the stop itself is mainly for viewing and brief photo opportunities.

Stop 2: The Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

The second stop is at the Colored School Museum, dedicated to the history of African-American education from the 1930s to 1960s. The museum is a recreation of the original school, and it’s clear the guide and staff are passionate about sharing this part of local history.

Visitors often comment on the energy and passion of the narrator, Matthias Grissett, who conveys stories with genuine emotion. One reviewer said, “The Colored School narrator was so passionate about the school, the people who influenced him and all of the kids who attended.” Expect to learn about a pivotal time for education and community life in Myrtle Beach, which adds rich context to the city’s story.

The Route and Narration

Traveling comfortably in a climate-controlled trolley, you’ll pass by other historic sites while listening to stories about Myrtle Beach’s origins, WWII history, and the arrival of German POWs. The tour covers the community’s wartime experiences, including the U-boat threat that once lurked just off the coast.

The guides do a superb job of balancing facts with engaging storytelling, making sure you stay interested throughout the two hours. Several reviews praise the guides as “very knowledgeable,” “professional,” and “passionate,” which really elevates the experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

The group size is capped at 33 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages questions and personal interaction. The cost of $45 per person is reasonable considering the depth of information and the stops included. It’s a handsomely priced way to spend a couple of hours learning about a side of Myrtle Beach most visitors overlook.

The trolley itself is described as immaculate, comfortable, and perfect for viewing. However, some reviews mention that seating can be tight, especially during busy times, so be prepared for that minor quirk. It’s a small trade-off for the convenience of a guided, structured experience that keeps you moving smoothly from site to site.

The Stops

• Pine Lakes Country Club: Offers scenic views and a glimpse into early Myrtle Beach life.
• Colored School Museum: Provides a heartfelt look at education and community history for African-Americans in the region.

The tour also touches on WWII topics like U-boat threats, German POWs, and regional impacts, giving you a fuller picture of Myrtle Beach’s wartime role.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the expertise of guides like Katherine and the engaging storytelling. One reviewer wrote, “Very knowledgeable tour guide. Learned quite a bit about the Myrtle Beach area history,” while another said, “The guide did an excellent job. She had perfect timing on the places we saw as we passed by.”

Visitors also appreciate the small group size, which fosters a personal experience. A parent even mentioned that “my son found the tour interesting enough to want to go back with his caregiver,” showcasing its appeal across age groups.

Some minor drawbacks include space limitations in the trolley and the possibility of the weather impacting outdoor views or stops. But overall, the consensus is that the value for money is solid, especially with guides providing a wealth of information that keeps the 2 hours packed with learning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, WWII enthusiasts, or anyone interested in a deeper understanding of Myrtle Beach’s past. It’s a good pick if you prefer guided tours with expert narrators and value learning over just sightseeing.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the engaging stories and accessible presentation make it suitable for older children or teenagers who can sit for a couple of hours and are curious about history. It’s also an ideal option for solo travelers and small groups looking for a meaningful activity that’s different from typical beach outings.

Practical Details

The tour starts at 4002 Deville St, Myrtle Beach, SC at 10:00 am. It lasts around 2 hours, and the price is $45 per person. It’s recommended to book about 24 days in advance for optimal availability. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, making it flexible if your plans change.

Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, though the small trolley space might be less comfortable for larger groups or those with mobility issues.

The Sum Up

This Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour is a well-balanced, engaging way to explore the city’s lesser-known stories. It combines beautiful landmarks with historical insights that many visitors overlook during a typical beach holiday. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable setting, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a worthwhile experience, particularly for those who appreciate history and regional stories.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative activity that adds context to your visit, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, local culture, and military history, or for groups eager to learn together.

While the tight seating might be a minor inconvenience, the overall value, engaging narration, and meaningful content make this experience worth considering. Make sure you book ahead, and prepare for a couple of hours that could genuinely deepen your appreciation for Myrtle Beach’s past.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted at kids, the stories and stops can be interesting for teenagers or older children, especially those interested in history.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee ($45) covers transport on the trolley, narration, and visits to two main stops.

Is the trolley climate-controlled?
Yes, the trolley is climate-controlled, making the ride comfortable regardless of weather.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What are the main stops?
Pine Lakes International Country Club and the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum.

Is there any outdoor walking involved?
No, the tour is primarily on the trolley, with brief stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a 2-hour outdoor and trolley experience, and consider layers if the weather changes.

Can I bring extra questions to the guide?
Absolutely, guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making it easy to ask questions during stops or while passing landmarks.

Hopefully, this detailed look helps you decide if this Myrtle Beach history tour is the right fit for your trip. It’s a unique way to connect with the city’s past and get a different perspective on this coastal town.