The first variety show in Myrtle Beach—and still voted #1 every single year—the award-winning 38th season of The Carolina Opry show blends two hours of critically acclaimed music, comedy and dance with 35 of the nation’s top performers and was recently named by CNBC as the “Top Attraction in Myrtle Beach!”

The Carolina Opry Theater also brings you Time Warp, the best music of the 60s, 70s, and 80s, blended with rich multimedia screens, special effects, and elaborate costuming, all performed live by the award-winning cast of The Carolina Opry.

November through December, the theater is transformed into a winter wonderland as Calvin Gilmore presents the South’s most eagerly awaited production, The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, often referred to as “The Christmas Show of the South!”

The theater also features The Myrtle Beach Performing Arts Series, known for bringing acts such as LeAnn Rimes, Gladys Knight, Travis Tritt, Art Garfunkel, Dwight Yoakam, Lyle Lovett, Kansas, America, Wynonna Judd, The Russian National Ballet and some of the most amazing tribute acts in the country!

On June 2, 1986, when Calvin Gilmore opened his doors to the first paying customers of The Carolina Opry, few locals or vacationers knew what to expect. Another country bar? Maybe Hee Haw at the beach?

What they got was a breath of fresh air. A sensational show in a cool theater. The kind of show you could take your kids or your grandmother to—but it also blew back the hair of your hard-to-please brother-in-law from New York. 

By late summer the word had gotten around that something spectacular was happening at The Carolina Opry, and the long line of patrons snaked out the door and around the building. Tour buses stood bumper to bumper. Gilmore had only 12 entertainers and musicians to work with, himself among the number, but they packed a wallop. 

Eight years later, the dam broke. Imitators rushed to cash in on The Carolina Opry’s success. The Dixie Stampede (now Pirate’s Voyage) grabbed his kite tail by sharing his prime site in Myrtle Beach. The investment group that created the Alabama Theater used Gilmore’s architect and his literal blueprints to build a theater. Burroughs and Chapin planned an entertainment complex that they hoped would corner the whole market with numerous shows. 

Nearly 40 years later, The Carolina Opry remains the top show in the market and Gilmore stands alone as a producer, performer, and entrepreneur. 

Though some have survived, none have managed to create the high quality production standard or the customer loyalty of Gilmore Entertainment. Why? Well, maybe because the cook is in the kitchen. The show is not created by a hired gun from somewhere else; it is written, produced, and directed right here in Myrtle Beach by the onsite owner. And it may be worth noting that it is owned entirely by the Gilmore family. 

The inauguration and phenomenal success of The Carolina Opry Christmas Special (“The Christmas Show of the South”) made Myrtle Beach a year-round destination. Many may have forgotten that thirty years ago Myrtle Beach rolled up the sidewalks after Labor Day. It was hard to find a restaurant open for lunch in December. Then the Christmas tour buses began to roll to The Carolina Opry Christmas Special. Families from throughout the region came to Myrtle Beach in December just to see the show. Hotels and restaurants not only opened—they filled. And a new seasonal market was born.

And along the way, spurred on by the entertainment boom that Gilmore inspired, the Grand Strand experienced exponential growth. The buzz brought heavy hitters like Marriott and Hard Rock Café and Medieval Times to the banquet table. 

Gilmore himself has performed numerous times on The Grand Ole Opry, was recognized for his accomplishments by the South Carolina state senate, and was bestowed the Palmetto Patriot award. His shows stand alone on the Grand Strand with major media accolades include NBC Nightly News, USA Today, CNN, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Times, Detroit Free Press, and a host of others. The Huffington Post recently noted that Gilmore’s shows featured “World-Class entertainers that blew us away . . . literally!”

Gilmore’s shows are the only shows to have won every major South Carolina tourism award, including the coveted South Carolina Governer’s Cup and Most Outstanding Attraction and are the only shows to be voted #1 for 30 years.

Now approaching our 40th anniversary season, The Calvin Gilmore Theater brings a level of production diversity never seen in Myrtle Beach. The theater hosts 3 original productions: The classic Carolina Opry show, Time Warp and the much-loved Carolina Opry Christmas Special (“The Christmas Show of the South”). The theater is also home to the Myrtle Beach Performing Arts series, featuring celebrity concerts like Dwight Yoakam, Gladys Knight, Blues Traveler, Gaither Vocal Band, Leann Rimes, Art Garfunkel and Travis Tritt as well as uncanny tribute tributes to artists like ABBA, The Bee Gees, Michael Jackson, the Eagles and more.

If the Carolina Opry Theater doesn’t have what you want, then you may need to check your pulse! You know the old saying: There's nothing like an original. 

We know a thing or two about unforgettable experiences—and we're not just talking about the show! From award-winning attractions to must-try local bites, here's our handpicked list of the best places to check out in Myrtle Beach!

The Carolina Opry Theater
The one that started it all! For 40 years, The Carolina Opry has been delivering a fun-filled mix of music, comedy, and dance that keeps audiences coming back for more. Named a "Top Attraction in Myrtle Beach" by CNBC, it's a show that never fails to impress, and a family tradition that gets better every time!

Duplin Winery 
Uncork the sweeter side of Myrtle Beach at Duplin Winery! Sip on America's favorite muscadine wine, enjoy a fun wine tasting, or watch the bottling process in action. Or, stop by the gift shop for some wine, gifts, or gourmet goodies to share with friends and family—you'll be the favorite when you get back home!

Angelo's Steak & Pasta
Craving a steak that's out of this world? Head to Angelo's, where they serve "the greatest steaks in the universe" (seriously, they're that good)! Savor hand-cut, perfectly aged steaks on a sizzling plate or indulge in their all-you-can-eat Italian buffet. With authentic family recipes, you get the taste of Italy right here in Myrtle Beach!

Brookgreen Gardens
The beach isn't the only stunning view in Myrtle Beach! At Brookgreen Gardens, you'll find breathtaking live oaks, world-renowned sculptures, and rich history all in one place. Stroll the Lowcountry Trail, explore the gardens, and take in the beauty of it all. Plus, there's a zoo for the kids (and the adults) to enjoy!

Carolina Seafood & Steak
Located near Myrtle Beach's famous Restaurant Row, Carolina Seafood & Steak offers a little bit of everything to satisfy any craving! Indulge in favorites like surf & turf combos, brick oven pizzas, and classic pasta dishes. Plus, enjoy great happy hour specials, delicious desserts, and a kids menu that's perfect for the little ones!

The Original Benjamin's Calabash Seafood Buffet
A Myrtle Beach landmark, The Original Benjamin's Calabash Seafood Buffet is a feast for the senses! Dive into their award-winning buffet with fresh local seafood, a pasta station, salad bar, and desserts galore. It truly is a must-visit for foodies and families alike!

Fiesta Mexicana
Craving bold flavors and fresh ingredients? Fiesta Mexicana serves up made-to-order dishes crafted from the finest ingredients, blending traditional Mexican flavors with exciting new twists. From sizzling fajitas to ice-cold margaritas, this family-owned gem offers friendly service and a welcoming vibe that makes every meal a fiesta!

Hook & Barrel
Just a block south of The Carolina Opry, Hook & Barrel blends fresh, sustainable seafood with a lively atmosphere. Known for its incredible dishes like the Shrimp & Grits, this spot serves up mouthwatering meals with a sophisticated flair. Bonus: Croissants Bistro & Bakery next door has the best brunch in town!

Flamingo Grill
Flamingo Grill, voted "Best All Around Restaurant" year after year, is a local favorite for a reason! With a menu that blends fresh seafood, tender steaks, and tasty pasta, there's something to please every palate. And, it's set in a stylish art deco atmosphere, bringing nationally renowned cuisine right here to the Grand Strand!

Anchor Bar
Looking to spice up your Myrtle Beach trip? Head to the Anchor Bar, Home of the Original Buffalo Chicken Wing! Savor the delicious taste of their famous wings, award-winning menu, and refreshing drinks while you kick back and unwind after a long beach day.

For more dining, lodging and 
vacation package savings, visit:
TheCarolinaOpry.com/Deals