Skip to main content

Riverpark Plaza in Myrtle Beach: Shops, Dining, and What to Expect

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Riverpark Plaza offers and where it sits

Riverpark Plaza is a shopping center in Myrtle Beach located along Highway 17 Business, near the Intracoastal Waterway. The center draws both locals and visitors looking for a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and services in one walkable location. It's positioned between downtown Myrtle Beach and the beachfront tourist corridor, making it accessible whether you're staying in the area or live nearby.

The plaza has evolved over the years as tenants have changed, so the specific stores and restaurants you'll find shift seasonally and year to year. The layout is designed around a central parking area, and most businesses are ground-level storefronts, making it straightforward to move between shops.

Key Takeaways

  • Riverpark Plaza sits on Highway 17 Business near the Intracoastal Waterway in Myrtle Beach, roughly midway between downtown and the beach.
  • The center typically includes a mix of casual dining, retail shops, and service businesses, though specific tenants change over time.
  • Parking is free and located in a central lot shared by all businesses, with most storefronts easily visible from the parking area.
  • The plaza is open year-round, though some seasonal businesses may have reduced hours during slower tourism months.

Dining options at the plaza

Riverpark Plaza has hosted various casual dining spots over time, ranging from seafood restaurants to sandwich shops and ethnic cuisine. The specific restaurants operating change, so calling ahead or checking current business listings before you visit ensures you'll find what you're looking for. Many of the dining options cater to both quick lunch stops and sit-down meals.

The plaza's location near the waterway has historically attracted seafood-focused establishments, though the mix varies. If you're planning a meal there, it's worth checking online or phoning the plaza directly to confirm which restaurants are currently open and their hours, especially during off-season months when some businesses reduce operations.

Retail and service businesses

Beyond dining, Riverpark Plaza typically includes retail shops, personal services, and specialty stores. These have included everything from clothing boutiques to gift shops, hair salons, and other service providers. The tenant mix reflects both permanent businesses and seasonal shops that open during peak tourism months.

Because the center's businesses change periodically, the best way to see what's currently there is to visit in person or contact the plaza's management office. Many businesses post their hours and services on social media or Google Business, which can help you plan your visit before you arrive.

Parking and accessibility

Parking at Riverpark Plaza is free and located in a central lot shared by all tenants. The layout makes it easy to park once and walk to multiple stores or restaurants without moving your car. The plaza is designed for pedestrian traffic between storefronts, and most businesses are at ground level with clear signage.

The center is accessible by car via Highway 17 Business, and it's located in an area with other nearby shopping and dining options if you want to explore beyond the plaza itself. Public transportation options in Myrtle Beach are limited, so having a car is the most practical way to visit.

When to visit and seasonal considerations

Riverpark Plaza operates year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. During peak summer tourism months (May through August), the plaza is busier, parking fills up faster, and restaurants may have longer waits. Winter months see fewer visitors, and some seasonal businesses close or reduce their hours.

Spring and fall offer a middle ground—fewer crowds than summer but more open businesses than winter. If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, weekday mornings typically draw fewer people than weekends and evenings. Calling ahead to confirm hours is especially important during shoulder seasons and holidays.

Nearby alternatives and the broader Myrtle Beach shopping landscape

Riverpark Plaza is one of several shopping centers in Myrtle Beach. Depending on what you're looking for, you might also explore downtown Myrtle Beach for locally owned shops and restaurants, or the larger mall and outlet options further north along Highway 17. The plaza's appeal lies in its walkable size and mix of casual dining and retail without the sprawl of bigger centers.

The area around Highway 17 Business has other shopping and dining options within a short drive, so if Riverpark Plaza doesn't have exactly what you need, alternatives are nearby. The waterway location also makes it a pleasant spot to spend an hour or two if you're interested in the natural setting alongside shopping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific anchor store at Riverpark Plaza?

Riverpark Plaza is a smaller, open-air center without a major department store anchor. It's organized around individual retail and dining tenants rather than built around one large store. This makes it more of a destination for specific shops or restaurants rather than a one-stop shopping hub.

What are the parking fees?

Parking at Riverpark Plaza is free for all customers. There are no paid parking lots or meters—you park in the central lot at no cost.

Can I find chain restaurants or only local businesses?

Riverpark Plaza has hosted both chain and independent businesses over time. The mix changes, so you may find recognizable names alongside locally owned spots. Checking current listings before you visit will show you what's operating now.

Is Riverpark Plaza good for families?

Yes, the plaza's casual dining and retail mix makes it family-friendly. The walkable layout and free parking make it easy to browse with children, and the dining options range from quick service to sit-down restaurants suitable for families.

How far is Riverpark Plaza from the beach?

Riverpark Plaza is roughly 1 to 2 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, depending on which beach access point you're measuring to. It's close enough for a quick trip but far enough inland that it's not a beachfront location. The drive from the plaza to the beach typically takes 5 to 10 minutes by car.