Nestled just a stone’s throw from the sparkling Atlantic, The Market Common is a Myrtle Beach neighborhood where history’s pulse beats alongside vibrant modern living. Today, it’s known for its picturesque streets, bustling shops, and welcoming parks, but its roots stretch much deeper—shaped by aviation, military heritage, and the vision of a growing coastal community.
Origins: From Open Fields to Airfields
Before The Market Common became the lively hub it is now, this area was part of a vast stretch of land bordered by what are now Farrow Parkway and Meyers Avenue. In the 1930s, Myrtle Beach was beginning to blossom as a seaside destination, but just inland, the land that would become Market Common was open fields and maritime forests. Its transformation began with the establishment of the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field in 1940, during the lead-up to World War II.
The airfield was carved out to serve as a training base for bomber and fighter pilots. Its strategic location—coastal, flat, and shielded by natural dunes—made it ideal for military purposes. The airfield expanded rapidly, playing an integral role in training U.S. airmen through the war and into the Korean War era.
How the Neighborhood Got Its Name
The name “The Market Common” is a nod to the classic idea of a town common—an open area for all to gather—and the thriving marketplace that the developers envisioned. When redevelopment of the old airbase began in the early 2000s, “Market” referenced the shopping, dining, and commerce that would anchor the new neighborhood, while “Common” evoked a sense of shared space, community, and connectedness.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1940-1947: The Myrtle Beach Army Air Field opens, training thousands of pilots and support staff.
- 1950-1954: The base is briefly reactivated during the Korean War.
- 1956: The facility becomes Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, playing a critical role in the Cold War, including housing the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing. Notable aircraft, such as the A-10 Thunderbolt II, were stationed here.
- 1993: After decades of service, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base was decommissioned as part of nationwide base closures.
- Early 2000s: Led by the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base Redevelopment Authority, plans take shape to convert the land into a new, master-planned urban village: The Market Common.
Notable Landmarks and Buildings
The Market Common pays homage to its military heritage throughout the neighborhood. Visitors and locals alike encounter nods to the past alongside sleek, contemporary design.
- Warbird Park: Located at the intersection of Farrow Parkway and Hendrick Avenue, this memorial park stands on the hallowed ground of the former airbase. It features a collection of historic aircraft—like the A-10 “Warthog,” F-100 Super Sabre, and A-7 Corsair—as well as commemorative plaques and markers honoring the men and women who served at the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base.
- Former Base Buildings: Some of the airbase’s original structures still stand and have been repurposed. The former officers’ club, for example, is now a centerpiece of The Market Common’s event scene. Streets such as Howard Avenue and DeVille Street, lined with boutiques and restaurants, trace the footprint of the old runways and taxiways.
- Grand Park: This expansive, 220-acre natural gem, bordered by Johnson Avenue and Phillis Boulevard, features scenic lakes, walking trails, and playgrounds. It’s a favorite spot for family picnics, outdoor events, and community festivals.
- Savannah’s Playground: Named in honor of local inspiration Savannah Thompson, this inclusive playground in Grand Park is one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast, welcoming children of every ability.
The Evolution of The Market Common
The Market Common stands as a model of thoughtful redevelopment. The transformation from military base to vibrant urban neighborhood is a blueprint for coastal cities across America. Streets like Farrow Parkway and Reed Street are now corridors lined with swaying palms, colorful storefronts, and families enjoying outdoor concerts or farmers markets.
The architectural style blends “New Urbanism” principles—emphasizing walkability, mixed-use spaces, and community gathering spots. Sidewalk cafés, chic apartments, and stylish lofts complement the green spaces and bike trails. Local institutions—Coastal Grand Mall, The Gordon Biersch Brewery, and Tidal Creek Brewhouse—draw weekend crowds, while community events like art festivals and outdoor movies create a small-town atmosphere.
Education thrives here, too. The neighborhood is near Myrtle Beach Intermediate School and Myrtle Beach High School, making it a favorite for young families. The Seacoast Artists Gallery in Valor Park is both a showcase and incubator for coastal talent.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
Residents and visitors alike feel the balance of past and present. The Warbird Park memorials, street names like Pampas Drive, and preserved military barracks all remind us of the sacrifices and stories woven into the land.
Yet, there’s an unmistakable energy in The Market Common—where outdoor music, bustling farmer’s markets, and friendly neighbors make every day a celebration of Myrtle Beach’s enduring spirit. Today, it’s not uncommon to meet former airmen who settled nearby, raising families in the shade of what once was the flight line.
Why The Market Common is Special
- Deep roots: Few neighborhoods blend history with modern amenities as seamlessly as The Market Common.
- Community spirit: Events in Valor Park and Grand Park foster connections that feel like “old Myrtle Beach.”
- Scenic beauty: With lakes, trails, and parks, it’s as beloved for its green spaces as its bustling downtown.
- A living legacy: Heritage plaques, public art, and historic aircraft keep the neighborhood’s story alive for new generations.
For those who call it home—or just come for the day—The Market Common is a living testament to Myrtle Beach’s adaptability and heart. From the thrum of warbirds overhead to the laughter echoing from playgrounds and patios, this neighborhood is a mosaic of history, harmony, and hope for the future.