TRAVEL | South of the Border, South Carolina, USA
South of the Border roadside attraction
What is south of the border ?
A unique and unexpected spot found in the southern states, South of the Border is a kitschy, roadside tourist attraction in Dillon, South Carolina. The tackiest attraction, South of the Border is a bright and colourful stucco facade in the middle of the American South… I mean, if it was anywhere else, it probably wouldn’t still exist. It is an escape from reality and a heavy hit of nostalgia, a mix of bright and happy colour tones veils the sad narrative of the place itself.
I’ve previously described some of my photography projects as, “a mix bright, fun colours with deep underlying emotional themes–this clash between cheerful emotions brought from colour vs. distressing and emotional content only further emphasizes the indecisive frustration I find within.” SO, that being said, it’s really no wonder I found this place so interesting. Keep scrolling for pictures.
Where is south of the border?
South of the Border is located in Hamer, South Carolina. It is just “south of the border” ;) of Rowland, North Carolina on Interstate 95 (I-95), US Highway 301 .
3346 US-301, Hamer, SC 29547, United States
Distance from Myrtle Beach: approximately 70 miles or about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive.
Distance from Wilmington, NC: 95 miles, 1 hour 30 minute drive
Distance from Charlotte, NC: 115 miles, 2 hours 15 minutes
You wont miss it
Billboards advertise South of the Border all the way from Virginia to Georgia.
Me, doing the george costanza on a giant wiener dog.
Pedro’s Myrtle Beach Shop has souvenirs and a large plaster great white shark sculpture.
Looking over 1-95 while standing on the South of the Border yellow footbridge.
Things to do at South of the Border
- Eat at the 24-hour hot tamale restaurant
- Tour gift shops
- Eat at the 24-hour hot tamale diner
- Eat at the The Sombrero Restaurant
- Take the glass elevator up the Sombrero Tower or if you’re afraid of heights, Play arcade games at El Toro arcade, located at the base of Sombrero tower
- Play mini golf or ride the amusement rides at Pedroland Park
- Check out the Reptile Lagoon
South of the border is a must see if you love kitsch art
Large and over the top is a common theme throughout
The Sombrero tower is 200 ft high and provides an aerial view of Dillon County, South Carolina.
A two-story high Gorilla statue at South of the Border, South Carolina.
The iconic 100 foot tall statue of mascot Pedro sports a huge sombrero at South of the Border, South Carolina.
From interior to exterior, colour is everywhere @ sotb
Look familiar?
Fort Pedro was the setting for season 2 of East Bound and Down, starring Danny McBride.
South of the border, A heavy hit of nostalgia found in the american south.
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