If you’ve never visited The Market Common in Myrtle Beach, you are in for a treat. Located only a short distance from Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort, the modern, urban-style shopping, dining and recreation complex is unlike anything else on the Grand Strand. But even if you have been to The Market Common in the past, you are still in for a few pleasant surprises in 2017.
Over the past year, The Market Common has undergone some serious changes and major upgrades to the retail and restaurant lineup, and the adjoining parks and have added new and improved recreation and festival opportunities. The ever-expanding development is the perfect place for Compass Cove guests to spend the day or evening. Here's a look at some of the changes:
* Black Dog Running: This running shoe and apparel shop recently relocated from downtown Myrtle Beach to the trendier shopping district at The Market Common. Specializing in personalized footwear for a perfect fit, Black Dog Running also offers personalized service from a locally owned and operated outlet.
* The Brass Tap: Beer, anyone? If so, this is your place. Serving more than 100 different varieties of beer from around the world, including lesser-known microbrews you won't find anywhere else on the Grand Strand, The Brass Tap offers a unique lineup of brews, food and atmosphere.
* Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach: As a branch of the Horry Georgetown County Technical College campus, this spectacular new building is designed to turn out the next generation of chefs to run Myrtle Beach's many restaurants. CIMB also operates its own kitchen and grill, offering drastically discounted meals to the general public.
* J.Jill: This national chain of women's apparel shops recently opened a store at The Market Common, adding another popular shop to The Market Common's already rich selection. Featuring fashionable and comfortable clothing, accessories and footwear, J.Jill has quickly become a hit among beach-going shoppers.
* Myrtle Beach Highland Games & Heritage Festival: This festival debuted in The Market Common’s Grand Park last spring with little fanfare, but the March 24-25 event expects even bigger crowds and more activities in 2017. Featuring Scottish-inspired games like the caber toss and the hammer throw, this festival also offers food and drinks inspired by the same culture.
* Paint & Unwined: Get ready to let the wine — and your artistic talent — flow at this new art studio for amateurs. Paint parties are held to allow those of all artistic abilities to express themselves in a casual setting. Enjoy the wine of your choice, and come home with your own masterpiece to remember the experience.
* Publix: With the closing of the Piggly Wiggly grocery store in The Market Common, a new, more modern chain has filled the void. Publix offers all the usual grocery items plus a full-service bakery, butcher shop, deli and more.
* Savannah's Playground: This first-of-its-kind playground was designed with children with special needs in mind. The brainchild of local teen Savannah Thompson, the project gained the support of the city of Myrtle Beach and local businesses, and it has created a safe and magical play place for kids with disabilities. Admission is free.
* Southern Living: The first store of its kind celebrates the South and all the great things highlighted by the popular magazine — including fashion, food, home decoration, garden and travel. If you like the magazine, you will love this new concept in lifestyle shopping.
After a full day of dining, shopping and playing at The Market Common, make the short trip back to your vacation home away from home at Compass Cove Resort. It’s just one more reason to spend your Myrtle Beach vacation with us.
