Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour

If you’re interested in history and want a different way to experience Myrtle Beach beyond its beaches and golf courses, this trolley tour promises a fascinating glimpse into the city’s early days and its role during World War II. Designed mainly for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this two-hour journey combines storytelling, sightseeing, and a touch of local pride.

What we love about this tour are the engaging guides who bring the history to life and the opportunity to see historic landmarks that are often overlooked. It’s a well-paced, comfortably air-conditioned ride that makes absorbing Myrtle Beach’s evolution easy and enjoyable. A potential consideration is the limited space inside the trolley — some reviews mention the seats can be tight, so those needing extra legroom might feel a bit cramped.

This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to understand how Myrtle Beach grew from humble beginnings to a popular tourist destination, especially if you’re keen on military history or African-American heritage. With thoughtful stops and a knowledgeable guide, it offers value for those who enjoy storytelling combined with sightseeing.

Key Points

• An immersive, 2-hour trolley tour focused on Myrtle Beach’s early history and WWII involvement
• Expert guides who share detailed, engaging stories and insights
• Visits to landmarks like Pine Lakes and the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum
• Comfortable, climate-controlled transportation suitable for most travelers
• Great for history buffs, families, and those interested in local stories and military history
• Well-rated tour with positive reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides and enjoyable storytelling

What You Can Expect from the Tour

An Authentic Journey Through Myrtle Beach’s Origins

This tour kicks off at 4002 Deville St, where you’ll meet your guide ready to take you back in time. The initial stop at the Pine Lakes International Country Club is perfect for appreciating Myrtle Beach’s historic roots. Established as one of the earliest golf courses in the area, Pine Lakes is more than a scenic spot; it’s a symbol of Myrtle Beach’s transformation from a quiet coastal community into a resort destination.

Expect a 15-minute stop, with restroom access, giving you a chance to soak in the scenic views and perhaps snap a few photos of the lush, well-manicured grounds. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way Pine Lakes is a hidden gem”, underlining its significance as part of the local history.

Exploring Education and Civil Rights at the Historic Colored School

Next, the tour visits the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum. Here, you’ll find a recreation of the original school that served African-American children from the 1930s to the 1960s. This stop offers a poignant look at the education challenges and achievements for Black residents during segregation.

One reviewer described this as a highlight, mentioning, “It conveys the history of education for African-Americans with dignity and depth.” This stop adds important context about the community’s resilience and progress, enriching your understanding of Myrtle Beach beyond beaches and nightlife.

WWII and Coastal Defense: Learning About U-boats and German POWs

The core of this tour is its focus on Myrtle Beach during WWII. The guide narrates how the coast became a target for German U-boat attacks, with stories of ships being sunk and the defense measures taken. You might find fascinating the account of German POWs being brought to the area, a lesser-known aspect of local wartime history.

While the tour doesn’t specify the locations of military installations, the guide’s storytelling helps paint a vivid picture of how the war impacted the region. The narrative is supported by the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guide, as multiple reviews praise her professionalism and depth of understanding.

The Comfort and Size of the Trolley

Traveling in an enclosed, climate-controlled trolley makes touring comfortable regardless of the weather. With a maximum group size of 33 travelers, it’s intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention, yet large enough to foster a lively atmosphere. Some reviews mention the interior can be tight, especially on busy days, but overall, most travelers find the trolley a cozy and practical way to explore.

What the Stops Offer in Detail

Pines Lakes International Country Club

As one of the earliest golf courses, Pines Lakes offers a glimpse of Myrtle Beach’s growth from a sleepy coastal town to a golf and resort destination. The scenic beauty of this location makes it a perfect photo stop. Restrooms are available, adding convenience for travelers who might need a quick stretch or freshen-up.

The Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum

This stop is particularly meaningful for those interested in civil rights and African-American history. The recreated school building conveys stories of perseverance and community strength. It’s an important piece of Myrtle Beach’s social fabric, often overlooked in tourist narratives.

WWII Landmarks and Stories

While the tour doesn’t specify exact military sites, the guide’s narratives include stories about U-boat threats and the presence of German POWs. These stories are supported by local history and add a military dimension to your understanding of Myrtle Beach’s past.

The Overall Experience: What Travelers Say

Across reviews, travelers highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the guide, describing her as “knowledgeable,” “professional,” and “full of information.” Several mention how much they learned in just two hours, with comments like “We learned so much about Myrtle Beach’s involvement in WWII” and “The guide’s timing and storytelling made the experience enjoyable.”

The tour’s pace and content are appreciated, with many feeling it was an excellent value for the $45 price tag. The small group size and climate-controlled trolley make it accessible and comfortable for most, including those with mobility considerations.

Some travelers have noted the interior space can be tight, which might be worth considering if you prefer more legroom or have mobility needs. However, the overall positive atmosphere and engaging storytelling tend to outweigh this minor inconvenience.

Price and Value

At $45 per person, this tour offers a solid value for a focused, educational experience. It’s a well-rounded way to see and learn about Myrtle Beach’s history without the hassle of navigating on your own. The stops are meaningful, and the guide’s insights add depth that a self-guided tour or museum visit alone might lack.

Given the reviews praising the detailed narration and the opportunity to see historic sites from the comfort of a cozy trolley, most travelers find this money well spent. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate stories behind the landmarks and want to connect with Myrtle Beach’s past on a more personal level.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trolley tour is best suited for history enthusiasts eager to explore a different side of Myrtle Beach. It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers interested in military history, African-American heritage, or local stories. It’s accessible for most, provided you’re comfortable sitting in a somewhat snug trolley environment.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, informative experience with a knowledgeable guide and scenic stops, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s a chance to learn about Myrtle Beach’s origins and wartime stories that many visitors might never encounter during a standard beach trip.

The Sum Up

This Early Myrtle Beach History and WWII Years Trolley Tour offers a well-curated, engaging look into a lesser-known side of this popular coastal city. With its combination of scenic stops, insightful commentary, and a friendly, professional guide, it provides genuine value for those curious about local history.

The tour is especially valuable for history buffs, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the stories of resilience and community development. Its relaxed pace and comfortable transportation make it accessible and enjoyable, even in hot or rainy weather.

While the interior space may feel a bit snug for some, the overall experience—filled with authentic stories, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides—makes it a worthwhile addition to any Myrtle Beach visit. For travelers wanting to understand the city’s roots and wartime history in just two hours, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though very young children might find the tour somewhat lengthy or challenging if they prefer more active outings.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, including stops. It’s a comfortable length for most travelers.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing for the weather, and a camera for the scenic stops. Since it’s an enclosed trolley, you don’t need to worry about sun or rain.

Are there restroom facilities during the tour?
Yes, the first stop at Pine Lakes includes restroom access, but it’s advisable to plan accordingly.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Last-minute changes are not accepted, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While most travelers can participate, the size of the trolley might be tight for some mobility devices. It’s best to inquire directly if you have specific needs.

This tour offers a meaningful way to connect with Myrtle Beach’s history — a story that’s as captivating as its beaches are beautiful. Whether you’re a history lover or simply curious about the area’s past, it’s an experience worth considering during your visit.