The name says it all for this casual, come-as-you-are bar and grill, where patrons often stroll up from the beach with sand on their feet for a bite to eat and a cold one. Ocean views, frozen concoctions, live music and great food is what it's all about at Bummz Beach Cafe, which offers all these and more in a fun-filled and family-friendly atmosphere just steps away from the ocean. Situated in a 1930's beach house setting, guests can sip on a cocktail while lounging in beach chairs and hammocks on the back patio deck, or get their grub on via a host of tasty burgers, sandwiches and salads.
Recommended for Live Music because: During the summer months, Bummz hosts live music daily on the outdoor oceanfront stage.
Terry's expert tip: Happy hour offers great drinks specials, a nice view of sunset and live music during the warmer months.
Rising high above the complex at Broadway at the Beach is the shining Palace Theatre, which hosts some of the top concerts and off-Broadway productions in the Southeast. This elegant theatre has hosted such talent as Aretha Franklin, Kenny Rogers and many other top-name celebrities and acts. Previous shows include Wynonna, Randy Travis, Clint Black, "Evita," "Lord of the Dance" and "Le Grand Cirque." The 1920s-style lobby, concessionaires and gift shop are worth a visit and the helpful staff can help you find your seats or select your tickets to your show of choice. Show times and admissions vary, so call ahead.
Recommended for Live Music because: Two-step the night away to the sounds of country and western at Rodeo.
Terry's expert tip: Shows are held nightly, but occasional discounted matinees make it more affordable for the while family to catch the show.
A unique and fun entertainment experience featuring your requested songs performed by some of the coolest and funniest piano players anywhere. Enjoy your favorite libation, sing-along and join in the fun. In fact, don't be surprised to find yourself and your friends as part of the act as the dueling pianists bring volunteers up on stage for some good-natured jokes. Too shy for the stage? Just sit in the back and laugh at others making a fool of themselves. The crowd is active and in a good mood thanks to the talented and humorous key-ticklers and generous portions of liquid courage from the bar.
Recommended for Live Music because: The pianists who work at "Croc Rocks" are some of the most talented musicians you'll ever see at a club.
Terry's expert tip: If you don't want to be a part of the show, keep your mouth shut. The performers are pros at making loud people look like fools, but it's all in good fun.
Like something straight out of Las Vegas (actually, it is!), this five-concert impersonator show is so good that a lot of patrons admit these performers do the songs as well as (in some cases better than) the originals. If you're thinking, "No way!" then come see for yourself as performers like Shania Twain, Jimmy Buffett, Michael Jackson and even Elvis take the stage and leave the crowd blown away. The location at Broadway at the Beach features state-of-the-art sound, lighting and multi-media displays. Shows usually begin on the hour. Depending on the season, there may be multiple show times in one day.
Recommended for Live Music because: You won't believe your eyes or your ears at some of the talented tribute artists who perform at Legends.
Terry's expert tip: Legends offers special "dinner and a show" tickets that include admission and dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in the area.
Stroll down the waterfront of this sleepy fishing village along the only stretch of town that doesn't go to bed early. The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk weaves along a path that backs up to a dozen bars and restaurants, most featuring outdoor decks with live music on the weekends. Places like Bubba's Love Shack and the Dead Dog Saloon have bands virtually every night of the week, while other stops like Divine Prime and Fishhouse offer a hip scene for more laid-back revelers. Enjoy a great view of sunset as the fishing boats return to the inlet after a long day at sea.
Recommended for Live Music because: Some of the top beach music acts in the nation play at this Ocean Drive hot spot, particularly during the S.O.S. shaggers festivals.
Terry's expert tip: A great photo op presents itself on a small island filled with deserted goats just off the Marsh Walk.
In 1986, Calvin Gilmore unveiled his Carolina Opry, which brings to the Grand Strand area some of the industry's top dancers, musicians, and singers for shows that dazzle audiences with their unique blend of music and comedy. Two decades later the Carolina Opry continues to draw big crowds and attract some of the top performers. In addition to year-round productions and concerts, the holiday season sees the Opry put on a stunning Christmas Special. Well reviewed and one of the most sought after tickets in town, the Carolina Opry is great entertainment for the entire family. Shows nightly, most at 8pm.
Recommended for Live Music because: Every show Calvin Gilmore brings to the Grand Strand is a certified hit.
Terry's expert tip: Check with your hotel's front desk or local coupon dispensers for special discounts.
Don't miss the chance to see where country music super group Alabama got its start back in the 1970s, and little has changed at this hole-in-the-wall honky-tonk since those days. The house band kicks out live music six days a week and visiting bands and musicians get together to jam on its night off. Patrons off all walks of life share the common bond of live music. Not the fanciest place in town but a must-see for those looking for a true taste of the Myrtle Beach nightlife. Wear your dancing boots and don't be surprised if someone asks you to two-step.
Recommended for Live Music because: Come see the same stage where Alabama played back in the day and some of the future stars of country musicians at The Bowery.
Terry's expert tip: Drink selection is limited (beer and wine) but there are plenty of places nearby to get a mixed drink in the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area.
The house band at Froggy Bottomz, Illuzion, is sure to bring down the house with an awesome repertoire of pop music covers. From your favorite classic rock tunes to current hip-hop chart toppers, Illuzion puts on a dynamic show that never fails to get the standing room-only crowds moving. Other bands and artists also make regular appearances at the club, which features a main stage and plenty of good seating in the bar area and upper-deck seating area. Full bar service is available, and there's even a VIP room with reserved tables if you want to roll like a rock star.
Recommended for Live Music because: The blues may have a "House" just down the road, but Froggy Bottomz is the home of the local blues scene.
Terry's expert tip: One cover charge includes admission to two adjoining clubs - Malibu's and Club Boca - good places to dance to DJs while the band is on break.
Named for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Grammy Award-winning group that got its start on the Grand Strand, the Alabama Theatre stands as a testament to the band's roots. Live concerts and regular theater performances keep the action hopping at this 2,250-seat theater, which attracts country music's biggest stars to thye stage and some of the best singers and dancers this side of Broadway. Nightly shows feature the Alabama's very own entertainers, with frequent appearances by greats such as Loretta Lynn and George Jones. Most shows start at 7:30pm Tuesday through Sunday, but call ahead for exact schedule.
Recommended for Live Music because: From live theater to major concerts, the Alabama Theatre has a little something for everybody.
Terry's expert tip: Check in advance for an special live shows that comes to town, including regular visits from the theater's namesake - country super-group Alabama.
This restaurant/concert hall attracts great live music performed by nationally and internationally known rock, folk, blues, jazz and blues bands. The 2,000-person venue attracts many mid-major level touring acts as well as smaller regional bands. The intimate venue allows for great views from all angles and a top-notch sound system. In addition to the ticketed events, the restaurant/bar area features live music seven days a week, including a wonderful Sunday Gospel Brunch. Call ahead for a schedule of upcoming events. Ticket prices and showtimes vary - most are about $20 and start around 8 p.m. - but many of the top acts sell out early.
Recommended for Live Music because: National and international touring acts play only at the "HOB," the top music venue on the Grand Strand.
Terry's expert tip: Concert ticket-holders who dine at the House of Blues before the show get priority first seating to the concert hall.