Cowabunga, Simpsons lovers! For Grand Strand-bound fans of America’s favorite TV-cartoon family, there’s exciting news to share — two recurring landmarks from the Simpsons’ hometown of Springfield are setting up shop on the Carolina coast.
As the latest new attraction at popular Myrtle Beach shopping/dining/entertainment destination Broadway at the Beach, “The Simpsons in 4D” features a replica of the Kwik-E-Mart, where Homer regularly goes to get his junk-food fix, and a soon-to-open replica of the Aztec Theater, where Springfield’s movie-goers go to catch the latest films on the silver screen. The new attraction allows visitors to cross the lines between animation and reality to experience a day in the life of Homer, Marge, Lisa, Bart, Maggie and the rest of Springfield’s beloved residents.
“We are thrilled to bring The Simpsons to Myrtle Beach in a way that this incredible brand deserves,” said Michael Needham, founder and CEO of SimEx-Iwerks Entertainment. “Launching this experience will be the culmination of years of passionate effort to bring The Simpsons to life beyond the screen. We are creating a series of memorable moments enriched with tremendous detail throughout the attraction so that guests feel they are a part of The Simpsons universe.”
Already open for business is the Kwik-E-Mart, which is located near the Broadway 16 Cinema movie theater and the Dragon's Lair Fantasy Golf putt-putt course. Serving as a convenience store with a distinct Simpsons twist, the Kwik-E-Mart offers some of the show’s most famous merchandise, including Buzz Cola, Duff Beer (alcohol-free — at this location, anyway), Heat Lamp Hot Dogs and Homer’s favorite food on the planet — Lard Lad Donuts.
Another popular item that brings Broadway at the Beach crowds through the Kwik-E-Mart doors is a wide selection of Squishees, the show’s sugary take on frozen beverages the likes of Icees and Slurpees. Choosing from an array of bright colors and tasty flavors, customers can create their own Squishee blend for some Simpsons-style liquid refreshment. Additional Simpsons-themed souvenirs and other common convenience store items are also available.
Coming soon to a location adjacent to the Kwik-E-Mart is the Aztec Theater, one of the focal points in the fictional town of Springfield. Moving into the remodeled IMAX Theater, which featured high-tech special effects, the Aztec Theater promises a unique experience that brings The Simpsons to the big screen and adds an extra dimension to the lovable main characters and other recognizable residents of Springfield.
In addition to a creatively cool lobby and a state-of-the-art theater experience, the Aztec Theater will also feature costumed characters from the Simpsons — including Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie, as well as other Springfield favorites making cameo appearances. The movies will be never-before-seen films featuring the Simpsons with amazing special effects.
Bonus — guests at The Strand Resort on the Myrtle Beach oceanfront will have the opportunity to step into a scene from The Simpsons with a free adult ticket to the attraction through the Brittain Rewards program. Of course, guests can visit the Kwik-E-Mart with no admission fee (just be careful not to gobble down too many Lard Lad Donuts). There are also plenty of free photo ops outside the two buildings, since the exterior has a distinct Springfield look and feel.
Located just a mile inland from The Strand Resort, Broadway at the Beach offers a wide selection of entertainment options for the entire family. Featuring more than 75 shops and dozens of restaurants, attractions and nightlife destinations, Broadway at the Beach is the most attended entertainment complex in the state of South Carolina. Book your Grand Strand getaway at The Strand Resort today — and add visits to Broadway at the Beach and Springfield to your vacation to-do list!
