Excursions   

Beyond the Bin: The Hidden Journey of Your Recycling.

Did You Know? The Horry County landfill is currently the highest point of elevation in Horry County, and long-term planning is essential as the site moves toward future capacity needs. Join OLLI for an educational (and surprisingly fun) behind-the-scenes tour of the Horry County Solid Waste Authority’s recycling operations right here in Conway. This guided experience takes you inside the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) and the Recycling & Convenience Center, where you’ll see the real process behind “reduce, reuse, recycle”—including how materials are sorted, processed, and prepared for reuse.

As the Coordinator of the Recycling Program likes to say, once members load up in the "SWA" van, you can sit back and take in the journey of recycling—watching the systems, machines, and teamwork that keep our community cleaner and more sustainable. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of what belongs in the bin, why recycling rules matter, and how modern landfill and recovery systems help protect local land and water.

Arrival Time: Please arrive no later than 9:45 a.m. (“SWA" Van boards at 9:55 a.m. and departs promptly at 10:00 a.m.)

Meeting Location: Horry County Solid Waste Authority, 1886 SC-90, Conway, SC 29526

Activity Level: Easy – Minimal walking; participants ride as a group with short, guided viewing stops

Please note that OLLI works with outside vendors to make excursions possible. As such, excursion registration is non-refundable. Should OLLI@Coastal cancel a planned trip due to lack of interest or unforeseen circumstances, registration fees will be refunded.

See the Art. Feel the Inspiration. Create Your Own.

Join OLLI for a vibrant and interactive morning at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum, where creativity and learning come together in a truly engaging experience. This thoughtfully designed program begins with a guided exploration of the museum’s galleries, where participants will view a dynamic collection of artwork across multiple mediums including painting, sculpture, and mixed media. With 11 rotating galleries featuring regional and national artists, each visit offers something new and inspiring to discover.

Following the tour, members will transition from observers to creators during a hands-on art activity inspired by the artwork on display. Participants will explore the technique of pointillism—using small, deliberate dots of acrylic paint to build a complete image—guided step-by-step in a relaxed and supportive environment. No prior art experience is needed, just a willingness to try something new and enjoy the creative process. This experience blends art appreciation with personal expression, offering a meaningful opportunity to engage with both the visual arts and your own creativity.

Meeting Location: 3100 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach SC 29577. Participants will meet directly at the museum. Parking is available on-site.

Activity Level: Low – includes light walking and standing during the tour, followed by a seated art activity.

Please note that OLLI works with outside vendors to make excursions possible. As such, excursion registration is non-refundable. Should OLLI@Coastal cancel a planned trip due to lack of interest or unforeseen circumstances, registration fees will be refunded.

Go Beyond the Glass—Discover What Happens Behind the Scenes

Join OLLI for an unforgettable all-inclusive experience at one of Myrtle Beach’s most fascinating attractions. This unique excursion combines exclusive access to a working marine research facility with time to explore the aquarium at your own pace. The day begins with a guided visit to the Marine Science Research Center, where participants will step beyond public exhibits and into the world of marine animal care and conservation.

This off-site experience offers a rare opportunity to learn how aquatic animals are housed, monitored, and studied. Depending on current activity, members may observe species such as sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles while gaining insight into rehabilitation efforts and ongoing research.

Following the guided experience, participants will return to Ripley’s Aquarium for a self-guided tour, allowing time to explore exhibits such as the shark tunnel, coral habitats, and interactive displays at a relaxed pace. This all-inclusive experience offers a powerful combination of education, access, and exploration, making it a truly memorable OLLI excursion.

Arrival Time: 10:30 a.m.  Behind-the-scenes Tour promptly starts at 11 a.m.

Meeting Location: Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. Participants will meet at the front entrance. Parking is available at Broadway at the Beach.

Activity Level: Moderate – includes walking, standing, and transitioning between locations.

Important Note: Participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to the tour; forms will be distributed and collected by the OLLI Coordinator upon arrival at the aquarium.

Please note that OLLI works with outside vendors to make excursions possible. As such, excursion registration is non-refundable. Should OLLI@Coastal cancel a planned trip due to lack of interest or unforeseen circumstances, registration fees will be refunded.