Best things to do in North Myrtle Beach

Previously known as the Village of the Barefoot Traders, Barefoot Landing is a shopping complex built over a filled-in portion of Louis Lake. The 15 quaint village shops of unusual wares that once made up the complex has expanded to more than 100 shops and activities encircle the lake. Many restaurants have outdoor seating with a view over the whole complex.

In addition to its namesake creatures, Alligator Adventure hosts an array of animals, such as beavers, tigers, reptiles, and more. Wander the center, as much a zoo as an alligator park, and visit the exhibits featuring native and non-native creatures. Don't miss the shows, including live alligator feedings and lessons in alligator and snake handling. You'll not only have the chance to admire American alligators, but also an albino alligator, a Chinese alligator, and even a crocodile. Check the website for information about feedings, show times, and special ticket offers.

Home to more than 10,000 creatures, Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers interactive activities designed to teach the public about 350 different marine species. You can observe the underwater kingdom of sharks, or touch cownose and spotted eagle rays. The aquarium houses a discovery center, providing hands-on multimedia marine education classes for visitors of all ages. Don't miss a stop at the "living gallery," a presentation of undersea life that includes sea anemones, corals, jellies, octopuses, and sea dragons.

Situated on the shores of beautiful Lake Broadway, Broadway at the Beach offers attractions from museums and aquariums to amusement park rides and live shows. There's also fine dining, brand name shopping, and nightly entertainment. View replicas of your favorite celebrities and historical figures at the Hollywood Wax Museum or head to Soar and Explore to try your hand at navigating a ropes course 15 m (15 m) in the air.

Fly high above the Atlantic Ocean with a ride on SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, a 57 m (187 ft) Ferris wheel opened in 2011. The wheel features 42 glass-enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas, each with bucket seating for six and UV protective windows designed for optimal viewing. The highlight of the wheel is a cutting-edge lighting system with more than one million LEDs, capable of creating a range of light effects best appreciated after sunset. Remember that vistas of the Myrtle Beach shoreline change at different times of day, providing you with a new perspective each time you ride the wheel. Avoid standing in long lines by booking your tickets online or by phone.