If you happen to be driving downward towards South Carolina, you’ll undoubtedly come across a gigantic, tacky, uncouth, fossil that has stood the test of boutique hotels, artisan markets, and locally sourced ethical vegan culinary standards.
The neon colors and Googie/novelty style architecture entice even the most hesitant of travelers. Yes, as soon as you see the enormous, borderline offensive, caricatured rendition of a Mexican man — Pedro, you’ll know that you have arrived at the place. That place is called South of the Border.
Ah, the great American road trip! How it has evolved over the years! In my parents’ day, the highlights of a family road trip included stopping to gawk at giant roadside wonders. Restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops all tried to wrangle in travelers with said enormous wonders. Many of these are now lost to time, but the few that do remain are a fun reminder of simple, fun, family vacations when just getting in the car and driving felt adventurous.
Attractions.
Reptile Lagoon:
Are you a fan of cold-blooded creatures? Well then, I have a few ex-boyfriends with whom I can set you up. And if that doesn’t appeal, you can take a gander at the Reptile Lagoon, home to America’s largest indoor reptile display and 15 species of crocodiles, plenty of snakes, and more. An expert reptile handler is on deck to ensure that the experience is an educational one for the family and can answer any questions that they might have. All proceeds go to the Crocodile Conservation Institute.
Pedroland Park:
If the slithering, scaly, lot doesn’t pique your interest, you can head over to the ‘Pedroland Park’ for some good old-fashioned fun with the kids. Watch them collect germs on the carousel, smash into their siblings on the bumper cars, and fly around in the red baron airplanes. The whole family can get in on a round of mini-golf because South of the Border has not one…but TWO championship courses with eighteen holes each. I honestly can’t imagine a more fun way to get out of the car to re-set and get the blood flowing.
Sombrero Tower:
Have you ever wanted to see what the countryside of Dillon, South Carolina looks like from two hundred feet in the air? You’ll have your chance at South of the Border! Following a multi-million dollar restoration project, the warm orange, green, and yellow hues radiating from Sombrero Tower are restored to their original luster. Also, guests can walk around the rim of the sombrero to get a 360-degree view of the area. If you’re not keen on going all the way up, there is an arcade at the bottom of Sombrero Tower where visitors can pass time.
Accommodations.
The two choices for lodging at South of the Border include the RV Campground or the Motor Inn. Every size room imaginable is for offer going from standard economy size to two-room King suites. There is both an indoor and outdoor pool and a sauna on the premises. The rooms are basic and without any frills, but all of the necessary amenities (fridge, safe, carport, TV) are there. Remember, this is not your new age, hipster, boutique bed and breakfast. It’s convenient, reasonably priced, roadside accommodations — reminiscent of the great American road trips of a bygone era.
Dining.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a meal together while on the road, The Sombrero Restaurant is a popular joint at which to stop. Visitors can find breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Just about every ‘classic’ item that you can imagine is on the menu: burgers, salads, steaks, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, fried ice cream… There’s plenty of carbs and coffee to give you the energy needed for the next half of your drive.
Lastly, for those who aren’t driving, margaritas aren’t a bad choice at all. The Peddler Steak house is open for dinner only and serves (what else) steaks along with other charcoal-fired meats like chicken and prime rib. Also, salads and seafood are also on offer as well. Looking to appease the screaming, whining, feral children in the back seat of your vehicle? Pedro’s Ice Cream Fiesta usually does the trick.
What gaudy, tacky, kitschy roadside attractions are near you? Let me know in the comments!
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