South of the Border offers enjoyment
By Allyson Betot; Noah ClarkAround the Campus Editor; Copy Editor
April 19, 2012
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| Photo by Allyson Betot |
| This South of the Border statue greets tourists and I-95 travellers, welcoming them to the attraction that has been open since 1949. |
South of the Border is located just over the North Carolina border near Dillon, S.C.South
S.C.South of the Border is a popular and amusing rest stop for those travelling down I-95.
History
South of the Border was founded in 1949 under the name South of the Border Beer Depot by Alan Schafer as a simple beer stand.At the time, its adjoining North Carolina counties prohibited the sale of alcohol.
Due to the popular demand of alcohol, Schafer's business was profitable and was able to expand to include restaurants and motels in just a few years, when he shortened the name to South of the Border.
Today, South of the Border is still the place to go to purchase items that you are not allowed to buy in the surrounding counties and states. These items include fireworks, adult entertainment material and others.
Attractions
South of the Border's visitors can take an elevator ride to the Sombrero Observation Tower.The tower is over 200 feet tall and gives tourists a full aerial view of all the attractions and the surrounding Carolina landscapes. The Sombrero Observation ride costs $1 in cash.
Pedroland Park features a wide variety of amusement rides and games.
The rides include common park rides, such as a carousel, ferris wheel and bumper cars.
Pedroland Park is also known for its two 18 hole miniature golf courses.
For those seeking to escape the heat, an indoor arcade at the base of the Sombrero Observation Tower is available.
The Reptile Lagoon is the largest indoor reptile exhibit in the United States.
It is the home to an abundance of reptiles, including snakes, crocodiles, alligators and turtles. This attraction costs $8 for adults and $6 for children ages 12 and under.
Accommodations
South of the Border's main motel is the South of the Border Motor Inn.The Motor Inn has 300 rooms available that range from $54.50 to $125 in price per night.
The Motor Inn provides an indoor and outdoor pool, a sauna and free wi-fi access.
Camp Pedro is another option for those looking to spend the night at South of the Border.
This campground features 100 camp sites, with full hook up access for recreational vehicles.
Barbecue grills are provided for campers to use as well as play areas for children.
South of the Border has six restaurants that appeal to a wide variety of appetites, not just those looking for Mexican food.
Restaurants include The Sombrero Restaurant, Pedro's Hot Tamale, Hot Dog Stand, Pizza and Sub Shop, The Peddler Steakhouse, Pedro's Diner and Pedro's Ice Cream Fiesta.
Shopping
South of the Border provides visitors a unique shopping experience with its wide variety of stores and gift shops.The most popular shopping destination is Rocket City & Fort Pedro, which is home to the largest stock of fireworks on the East Coast.
Each shop has a specific theme, including beach gear, hats from around the world, antiques, leather products, and souvenirs.
The Hats Around the World shop is a great place to stop and try on hats of all shapes and sizes.
Strategically placed mirrors give shoppers a view of themselves in pizza hats, top hats, pirate hats and other fun head gear.
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The print edition of The Pine Needle is published 14 times a year during the fall and spring semesters. Updated: Thursday, April 26, 2012 © The University of North Carolina at Pembroke |
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