Tour Our County

Horry County was named for Revolutionary War hero Peter Horry (1743-1815), and is 1,255 square miles, making it one of the largest counties east of the Mississippi. With a resident population of over 380,000, Horry County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation. One of the largest tourist destinations in the country, Myrtle Beach, is located within the county.

Horry County was established in 1801. This area of the state was isolated for many years by numerous rivers and swamps, and the inhabitants sometimes referred to themselves as the “Independent Republic of Horry”, with the trading, commerce and transportation of goods popular in and around Horry County’s waterways to markets near and far away. Lumber and naval stores were the primary industries during the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, with tobacco farming being introduced later. In the twentieth century, tourism came to dominate the coastal section of the county.

Horry County Fire Rescue (HCFR) is a combination career and volunteer department with a force of approximately 700 personnel operating out of 41 stations. Our mission is to serve the community by providing professional fire, rescue and emergency medical services. HCFR’s vision is committed to excellence today for a safer tomorrow. The annual call volume for HCFR surpasses 80,000.

Warbird Park at Market Common

Warbird Park, located in Market Common, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a tribute to the area's rich aviation history. The park is named after its centerpiece—a collection of military aircraft displayed prominently. These aircraft include an A-10 Thunderbolt II "Warthog," an F-100 Super Sabre, an F-104 Starfighter, and a T-33 Shooting Star. The park not only serves as an outdoor museum for aviation enthusiasts but also as a memorial honoring the men and women who served at nearby Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. Visitors can explore the aircraft up close, learn about their history, and appreciate their role in military aviation. The park's location within Market Common, a vibrant shopping and dining district, makes it easily accessible and a unique attraction blending history with community engagement.

Market Common

Market Common is a vibrant and modern urban village located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Developed around a former Air Force base, this community offers a unique blend of residential living, shopping, dining, and entertainment in a pedestrian-friendly environment. At Market Common, visitors can explore a variety of upscale shops, boutiques, and specialty stores offering everything from fashion and home decor to art and gifts. The dining options are diverse, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, catering to different tastes and preferences. With its blend of modern amenities, stylish architecture, and convenient location near Myrtle Beach attractions, Market Common has become a popular destination for both residents and visitors seeking a vibrant lifestyle experience in the heart of the Grand Strand.

Barefoot Landing

Barefoot Landing, located in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment complex nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway. Known for its charming boardwalk-style atmosphere, Barefoot Landing offers a diverse range of shops, boutiques, and galleries, alongside numerous restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the landscaped grounds, exploring unique stores offering everything from clothing and jewelry to souvenirs and home decor. The complex also hosts live entertainment, including music performances and special events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant ambiance. With scenic views of the waterway and plenty of family-friendly activities, Barefoot Landing is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists looking to shop, dine, and relax in a picturesque setting in Myrtle Beach.

Ripley's Aquarium

Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a premier attraction known for its immersive underwater experiences and educational exhibits. Located at Broadway at the Beach, this aquarium offers visitors a journey through diverse aquatic environments, showcasing thousands of marine animals from around the world. Key highlights of Ripley's Aquarium include the new Sloth Valley and Penguin Playhouse exhibits, the Dangerous Reef exhibit, featuring a moving walkway through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, and the Rainbow Rock exhibit, home to vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs. With its combination of educational value, immersive exhibits, and engaging activities, Ripley's Aquarium offers a memorable experience for both locals and tourists exploring Myrtle Beach's attractions.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a lively oceanfront promenade that stretches for 1.2 miles along the sandy shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This iconic boardwalk has quickly become a central hub of entertainment, dining, and recreational activities for visitors and locals alike. Along the boardwalk, you'll find a variety of attractions and amenities. There are numerous shops selling beachwear, souvenirs, and gifts, as well as arcades and entertainment venues offering games and activities for all ages. The boardwalk is also home to several oceanfront restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy a meal or drink while taking in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The boardwalk's focal point is Plyler Park, located at the heart of the promenade, which hosts concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year. The park features lush green spaces, benches, and a playground, making it a popular spot for families and visitors looking to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Tanger Outlets

Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach is a popular shopping destination located along Highway 501 and Highway 17 Bypass in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It is part of the Tanger Factory Outlet Centers chain, known for offering a wide range of brand-name and designer outlet stores at discounted prices. The outlet mall features over 100 stores, including fashion, accessories, footwear, home goods, and specialty stores, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Visitors can explore well-known brands such as Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, and many more, making it a favorite spot for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Learn About Horry County, SC