South of the Border Is One Of The Strangest Places You Can Go In South Carolina
South of the Border is the ultimate roadside stop for travelers. Not only can road-trippers pull off the highway to fuel up, but it’s a destination with accommodations, shops, dining options, and rides, all stuck in a strange, bygone era.
South of the Border opened in 1949 as a beer stand started by a Mr. Alan Schafer.
Melissa Mahoney
It's located in the town of Dillon where highway routes I-95, US 301, and US 501 converge.
The roadside charm makes for a fascinating visit with all there is to see and do!
Melissa Mahoney
Over the years, South of the Border grew to include a small drive-in restaurant, a shop selling Mexican imports, a motel, the addition of fireworks sales, a drug store, post office, and various recreation facilities until it eventually evolved into what it is today. The mascot of this 350-acre attraction is Pedro who can be found in several places on the property as well as on highway signs. There is even a tall 104-foot image of Pedro greeting visitors – hard to miss him!
Just about anything you can think of is sold in one of the many large gift shops!
Fireworks are quite popular to buy, especially if you live in a state where, by law, they are unavailable for sale. Hats, t-shirts, sunglasses, Mexican goods, and even motocross accessories are also for sale.
Several fiberglass sculptures are placed around the property adding to the campy feel of the place.
Visitors love climbing on some of the fun sculptures to take photos as a great way to remember their trip to South of the Border!
The geodesic Pleasure Dome of the South of the Border Motor Inn covers a heated pool and sauna for motel guests to enjoy.
There is also a campsite on the grounds known as Camp Pedro. Outdoorsy guests can enjoy showers, laundry facilities, barbecues, and electric RV hookups.
Have you ever dined in a sombrero?
Come to South of the Border and now you can tell your friends about dining at this unique locale! Enjoy a moderately-priced filet here at The Peddler Steakhouse. Oddly enough, there is no Mexican food served in this sombrero-shaped dining establishment.
Take a ride on Sombrero Tower's 200-foot glass elevator to get a birds' eye view of the South of the Border grounds.
There are additional rides at Pedroland Park. You can also play a round of mini-golf at one of two courses or bounce in one of the bounce houses. Children (and adults) of all ages will surely be delighted!
Maybe you’ve seen signs for it while driving down I-95, US-301, or US-501 and never stopped, but South of the Border should not be missed. It is strange and campy fun that will surely put a smile on your face!
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