Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour

Discover Myrtle Beach’s Historical Roots and WWII Impact in Just 2 Hours

The Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour offers an engaging way to explore the city’s origins and wartime history for $45 per person. With a duration of approximately 2 hours, this tour departs from 4002 Deville St and takes travelers through key landmarks, historical sites, and stories that shaped the area. The tour is ideal for history buffs and those interested in the local role during World War II.

The trolley itself is enclosed and climate-controlled, providing a comfortable environment for the journey. The tour features two main stops—a scenic site at Pines Lakes International Country Club and the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum—offering insights into both the city’s early development and African-American education history. While the tour is well-received for its knowledgeable guides and engaging narration, it’s worth noting that space in the trolley can be tight, and travelers should plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Cost: $45 per person, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance
• Duration: About 2 hours of storytelling, sightseeing, and stops
• Highlights: Visits to Pines Lakes International Country Club and the Colored School Museum
• Focus: Myrtle Beach’s early history and WWII involvement, including the U-boat threats and German POWs
• Comfort: Travel in a climate-controlled trolley with up to 33 guests

Myrtle Beach’s Historic First Stop at Pines Lakes International Country Club

The tour begins at Pines Lakes International Country Club, one of Myrtle Beach’s oldest and most scenic locations. This site provides restrooms and a chance to appreciate natural beauty while setting the stage for the city’s early days. The visit lasts approximately 15 minutes, allowing enough time to enjoy the views and learn about Myrtle Beach’s beginnings as a seaside resort town.

This location is notable for its beauty and historical significance, and the guide shares details about Myrtle Beach’s development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The stop provides visual context for the subsequent stops and the overall narrative of how Myrtle Beach grew from a small community into a popular tourist destination.

Visiting the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

The second stop is at the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum, a recreation of the original school that once served African-American students from the 1930s to the 1960s. Here, Matthias Grissett, a knowledgeable guide affiliated with the City of Myrtle Beach, explains the history of education for African-Americans during segregation.

Visitors learn about the resilience and community efforts that supported schooling in a racially divided era, gaining insight into the local African-American history. The museum visit lasts 15 minutes and includes a narrative that highlights the struggles and achievements of Black residents in Myrtle Beach. This stop adds depth to the tour by illustrating social history alongside the broader wartime stories.

The Route and Landmarks: From Blacksmith Shops to WWII Bunkers

Throughout the tour, the trolley passes various historic sites associated with Myrtle Beach’s early growth and wartime activities. While the specific route details include passing by local landmarks and military-related sites, the focus remains on delivering informative narration about Myrtle Beach’s role during WWII—such as U-boat threats off the coast and the presence of German POWs.

Travelers can expect the guide to share detailed stories about the community’s wartime economy and military history, making the journey both educational and visually engaging. The comfortable trolley ensures an easy viewing experience, though the limited space might be a consideration for larger groups.

The Guide’s Style: Knowledgeable and Passionate Storytelling

Reviewers consistently praise the expertise and enthusiasm of the tour guides, with many highlighting Kathryn as a standout narrator. She is described as passionate about local history and full of interesting facts, making the two-hour experience both informative and entertaining.

Guides keep the tour well-paced, with timing at each stop carefully managed to maximize learning without feeling rushed. Their ability to answer questions thoroughly and share lesser-known stories about Myrtle Beach’s past adds a personal touch that keeps guests engaged.

Group Size and Comfort: An Intimate Experience

The maximum group size is limited to 33 travelers, creating a more intimate environment for storytelling and interaction. The enclosed trolley provides climate control and protection from weather, making it suitable for year-round touring.

While reviews note that space can be tight, the overall comfort level remains high, especially given the length of the tour. Attendees should be prepared for short walking or standing periods during stops and should dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting outdoor landmarks.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are typically made about 24 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The ticket is a mobile pass, ensuring easy access. Customers can cancel for free at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds issued if canceled early enough.

The tour operates rain or shine; if weather conditions are poor, the experience can be rescheduled or refunded. The group size cap ensures consistent service, but if minimum numbers are not met, the tour may be canceled, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This historical trolley tour appeals most to those with an interest in local history, Wartime stories, and African-American heritage in Myrtle Beach. The 2-hour duration makes it an accessible activity for most visitors, especially those eager to learn about lesser-known stories of the area.

It’s a good fit for family groups, history enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a comfortable, educational experience. Travelers who appreciate expert guides and well-organized stops will find this tour both informative and engaging.

The Sum Up: A Solid, History-Focused Tour with Rich Stories

The Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour delivers a thoughtful look at the city’s founding, growth, and wartime role. With two carefully chosen stops, a knowledgeable guide, and a comfortable trolley, it offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and storytelling.

While the tight seating might be a concern for some, the depth of information and passion of the guides compensate for that minor drawback. This tour is perfect for history lovers who want to connect with Myrtle Beach’s past in a relaxed setting and come away with a better understanding of the area’s fascinating history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour is best suited for older children who can sit comfortably for two hours and are interested in history.

What is included in the stops?
At Pines Lakes International Country Club, you enjoy scenic views and a brief history of Myrtle Beach’s early days. The Colored School Museum offers insights into African-American education history.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if the stops include outdoor sites. The trolley is climate-controlled, but comfortable shoes are advised for walking around landmarks.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour, making it accessible for guests with disabilities.