Jesse Broadt: Contributor
Virtually all vacationers are interested in some type of live entertainment, and the Grand Strand has it all. The biggest challenge people face is deciding which theater or club to visit first. Below are some favorite entertainment options that vacationers should explore when visiting Myrtle Beach:
Anyone searching for top-quality Myrtle Beach entertainment need look no further than the Carolina Opry. Founded in 1987 by Calvin Gilmore, the theater was Myrtle Beach’s only live theater until 1993. Also the sole Grand Strand theater to win the coveted Governor’s Cup–South Carolina’s highest tourism award–the Carolina Opry never disappoints its patrons. Located on Route 17 Bypass in Myrtle Beach, the theater features two shows, for which the names occasionally change: visitors have their choice of a traditional modern and classic country music show with comedy and dancing, or a through-the-decades extravaganza featuring country, pop, and rock music from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Those who are passionate about live music and want nothing but top-notch talent should not miss a night at the Opry.
Vacationers who enjoy Las Vegas style impersonators should place Legends in Concert on their must-see list. With a continuously rotating agenda of talent, Grand Strand visitors can experience music by live singers performing the songs of legendary artists including the following:
The theater boasts one of the best backup bands in Myrtle Beach, as well as talented dancers. Located on Route 17 Bypass in the heart of the Grand Strand, this show is a can’t miss for those who enjoy the illusion of seeing and hearing their favorite songs performed by the original artists.
Grand Strand visitors searching for unique, fast-paced entertainment to keep them on the edge of their seats from start to finish should make their way to the Pirates Voyage. This dinner show brings swashbuckling excitement to audiences of all ages and patrons can look forward to swordfights, aerial stunts, acrobatics, animal tricks, singing, dancing, competitions, and trapeze stunts. Youngsters particularly enjoy special appearances from Salty the Sea Lion and colorful trained parrots. This Blackbeard-themed performance takes place as visitors are served a four-course dinner by friendly servers dressed in pirate costumes. The action-packed show commences with cannonballs, mermaids, and treasure chests full of bounty from the seven seas. A terrific show for anyone who enjoys action, the Pirates Voyage offer some of the best entertainment on the Grand Strand.
Grand Strand vacationers in search of classic Grand Ole Opry style performances and traditional favorites should consider a night out at Myrtle Beach’s Alabama Theater. The One Show features talented singers performing classic favorites such as those made famous by Hank Williams, Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty, and Crystal Gayle. Once nominated for the Country Music Association’s Venue of the Year Award, the Alabama Theater offers the classic entertainment for which the South is famous and has been a top theater on the Grand Strand since its inception in the mid-90s. Anyone looking for traditional country music, great dancing and outstanding comedy need look no further than the Alabama Theater.
Myrtle Beach vacationers intrigued by castles, weaponry, horsemanship, falconry and knights owe it to themselves to visit the Grand Strand’s own Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. Featuring a four-course meal served in a dark and mysterious castle arena, this show offers a non-stop adrenaline rush. Falcons circle the arena at their master’s command, sparks fly from the swords of dueling Knights, and magnificent Spanish horses step in unusual and intricate patterns to entertain the Queen’s guests. Only one Knight of the Realm is victorious, and cheers grow louder and louder throughout the night as each section of the arena shouts praises to “their knight” and one they hope will be the eventual winner. Packed with drama and theatrical effects, the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is one of the most exciting entertainment venues on the Grand Strand. Medieval Times is situated at Fantasy Harbor in Myrtle Beach and is easily reached from Route 501.
Medieval Times Dinner Tournament offers the best in Myrtle Beach entertainment
Offering the broadest range of nightlife entertainment options in one place, Broadway at the Beach is a failsafe option for anyone searching for live music, comedy, or a place to dance the night away. Located off Route 17 Bypass in Myrtle Beach, the complex boasts 15 entertainment establishments offering patrons virtually any type of live show they prefer. From comedic performances to great local bands and piano music, this attraction is a one-stop destination for all types of entertainment.
Stand-up comedy fans should head to the Comedy Cabana, located on Route 17 in North Myrtle Beach. This establishment has introduced new acts on a weekly basis since 1997. In a classic, brick walled, New York style comedy club, there are always top-notch comedians who never disappoint their public. The Grand Strand’s only five-star comedy club, the Comedy Cabana packs out on a regular basis and keeps patrons coming back for more.
Since 1944, The Bowery Music Hall has opened its doors to Myrtle Beach locals and visitors seven days a week. With a classic Southern hospitality ambience and fabulous live music, this establishment deserves a top spot on any vacationer’s must-visit list. Country legend band “Alabama” got their start at the now-famous Bowery, making it not only a landmark on the Grand Strand, but also an iconic place to enjoy outstanding entertainment. Located near the Boardwalk area in the heart of Myrtle Beach, the Bowery offers a non-stop party environment for locals and visitors alike.
Grand Strand visitors enjoy cocktails and entertainment at the iconic Bowery Music Hall
For fans of shag dancing, the choice is easy: Fat Harold’s Beach Club has a following that will never die. Located on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, where shag dancing was created, this club is an absolute must for any shag fans. Home to an annual shag dancing competition, Fat Harold’s Beach Club remains a top tourist attraction among those who know how to shag and those who are simply fans of this fun and unique dance. Shag dancing enthusiasts will quickly find that Fat Harold’s belongs at the top of their entertainment list.
Live concerts and events, bar and restaurant entertainment, and something different all the time define the House of Blues at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. Tribute concerts, staged plays, murder mystery dinner theater and other types of entertainment are also scheduled on a regular basis at this iconic Grand Strand musical landmark. Visitors of all ages and from all walks of life are pleasantly surprised when they realize just how much the House of Blues has to offer.
Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway is another great live entertainment option for Grand Strand visitors. The Boathouse Waterway Bar and Grille offers outdoor amphitheater seating directly on the water during peak season, and year-round live music. Often hosting nationally-recognized bands and special performances, the Boathouse is an excellent choice for those searching for interesting live entertainment.
Plyler Park, at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, is a place for concerts and live musical events during spring, summer and fall. This outdoor entertainment venue is ideal for visitors who prefer an open air, beachside entertainment area from which they can easily come and go as they choose. A beautiful and fun place to enjoy live performances, Plyler Park is perfect for anyone visiting the Grand Strand.
Vacationers looking for a great party atmosphere where they can dance the night away should visit Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar on Shore Drive in Myrtle Beach. Consistently voted one of the best beach bars in South Carolina, Ocean Annie’s is part of the Sands Ocean Club Resort and is often referred to as the “biggest party on the beach.” Live entertainment is the name of the game at Ocean Annie’s and each year the club outdoes itself with larger-than-life entertainment. Anyone who is visiting Myrtle Beach to enjoy a true tropical party atmosphere and a genuine outdoor dance floor should definitely visit this great club.
Located in the part of the Grand Strand from which it takes its name, the Garden City Pier is a great live entertainment destination for couples and families. Although the Pier features live bands and alcoholic beverages, there is also a safe, child-friendly section with an arcade and Café. Children’s activities are held on the Pier during the day, and it is also a great fishing location. After dark, families can enjoy karaoke, live bands and a wide variety of performances throughout the spring, summer and fall. A must-see for anyone who enjoys being entertained, the Garden City Pier should not be overlooked by Myrtle Beach vacationers.
The Bourbon Street Bar and Grill is arguably the Grand Strand’s sleeper with regard to live entertainment, but this establishment offers the best. Located on Route 17 Business in Myrtle Beach, the bar regularly features top-notch performers from major theaters such as the Carolina Opry and offers vacationers outstanding entertainment for a nominal price. With a rustic ambience and an easygoing venue for live bands, the Bourbon Street Bar and Grill is a great place to enjoy cocktails, American comfort food, and performances by highly talented individuals.
Bourbon Street Bar and Grill may be the Grand Strand’s sleeper
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