Top Rated Attractions in Little River

Alligator Adventure is one of the world's largest alligator exhibits, where visitors can see more than 800 alligators feast, frolic and fetch as they walk on boardwalks. The alligators (including two rare albinos) range in size from eight-inch newborns to 13-foot adults. During the tour, visitors can listen to a lecture and watch the staff feed these animals as they jump out of the water. In addition to these cold-blooded amniotes, visitors can also see tortoises, exotic birds and Komodo dragons, as well as plenty of amphibians in the large herpetology house.

Since its first incarnation in 1992, the House of Blues has become a household name. With different locations in cities like Hollywood, Orlando, L.A. and Chicago (there are 13 in all), founder Isaac Tigrett and celebrity Dan Aykroyd bring live entertainment and better-than-average pub grub to the delight of citizens around the country. Despite its name, the music is not entirely of the blues, 12/8 time-signature variety, just check the event calendar to find your favorite style of music or entertainment. With shows that run the gamut from Murder Mystery Dinner Theater to the World Famous Gospel Brunch, there is something for everyone. Music and art influence every aspect of House of Blues' decor and every region has an ambiance that reflects its city. In fact, with over 600 pieces of "outsider" art, House of Blues is one of the largest folk art galleries in Myrtle Beach. In regards to food, HOB serves a variety of Southern-delta inspired dishes including Jambalaya and BBQ Baby Back Ribs. For the complete kitchen menu, check the Myrtle Beach HOB website.

This museum, run in conjunction with the Ingram Planetarium, is over the border from Myrtle Beach, but worth the trip if you enjoy natural history and science. It features exhibits on Atlantic coastal sea life like sharks, insects and snakes as well as informative ones like tide flows and the peril of litter on beaches. Each exhibit has a different theme, with names like Sea Shore, Ocean Reef, Barrier Island and Coastal Plain, that represent their ecology, respectively. For more information on events and collections, contact the museum or check website for calendar.

Enjoy a four-course meal while watching a spectacular show with colorful fighting pirates searching for treasure. A full-scale ship on a real lagoon is the stage for all the action, which includes acrobatics, lighting effects, sounds and pyrotechnics. A Dolly Parton company, it's located in the former Dixie Stampede arena next to the Carolina Opry Theater. Diners are not to be left out either, as they become participants cheering their crew on. The purchase of a Pirates Voyage ticket can be combined with either Wonderworks or Ripley's Aquarium for special rates. Show times and dates vary; check the online schedule or call for more information.

Located on Highway 17, Broadway at the Beach is a must-see for Grand Strand visitors. There are over 100 specialty shops that sell everything from T-shirts and sunglasses to fine jewelry and high-end shoes. Additionally, there are more than 20 restaurants that feature all kinds of food, from hamburgers to great local specialties. Moreover, three state-of-the-art theatres assure great entertainment facility for visitors here. Broadway at the Beach also contains a 23-acre (93077.7-square meter) lake surrounded by boardwalk, making it a great place to stroll on a sunny day or balmy night. During the summer, the boardwalk hosts live music performances and other exciting events.

Many beaches that come with a boardwalk have a carousel or Ferris-wheel and this landmark is one such attraction. It is a modern contraption that carries passengers in style and comfort above the promenade. The ride lasts about ten minutes, which entails three revolutions, and makes for a great date or photography spot.