Art Museum of Myrtle Beach

Housed in a charming Southern villa on South Ocean Boulevard, The Art Museum of Myrtle Beach is one of the finest visual arts museums in South Carolina. Home to an intimate collection of permanent and temporary exhibitions that feature paintings, sculpture, photographs and maps, this hidden gem is a must on any discerning cultural itinerary.

Both local and regional works are well represented throughout the four permanent exhibitions. The Waccamaw Arts and Crafts Guild Collection was the museum’s first permanent collection and showcases the work of 29 acclaimed regional artists.

Lose yourself among the wealth of historic maps in the Bishop Maps and Prints Collection. Donated by the Bishop family, this collection of fifteen hand-drawn maps dates from 1606 to the mid-19th century and is a must-see for anyone with even a passing interest in cartography.

Take your time browsing the extensive Barbara Burgess and John Dinkelspiel Collection of Southern Art. This detailed collection comprises 50 works from over a dozen Southern artists, and incorporates a range of disciplines including painting, sculpture and lithography.

Take inspiration from the villa’s sweeping Atlantic views and create your very own artwork at the museum’s Art Studio. With regular workshops and art classes for families, children and adults, visitors can create their own sculptures, learn about the subtleties of drawing and shading or fashion personal works of art from recycled material. With lots of different classes on offer, it’s a good idea to book in advance to avoid disappointment. This wonderful museum is also renowned for hosting noteworthy exhibitions throughout the year, so keep an eye on the website for updates.

The museum is free to visit but donations are always welcome. It feels good to throw a few dollars in the pot and know that you are helping to support this commendable cultural amenity.