Pedro's Mexican Shop West @ South of the Border - Hamer, SC…read more A Classic Roadside Attraction with a Lot of Character (and a Need for Some TLC) My husband, daughter, and I went out of our way to stop at South of the Border, and it was totally worth it! One of the coolest spots we explored was Pedro's Mexican Shop West--this gift shop is HUGE and filled with colorful, quirky, and unique finds. We spent over an hour just browsing everything inside. It's one of those old-school, fun stops that brings out the road-trip nostalgia. Definitely a memory-maker! My one suggestion: The entire South of the Border compound could really use a fresh coat of paint. It's looking a bit rundown, especially the hotel and RV park areas. The place has so much personality--it would be a shame to let it keep decaying. A little love and upkeep would go a long way here! Hours of Operation (as of August 2025): Gift Shops & Dining: Mexico Shop East & West: Sun-Thu: 7:30 AM - 9 PM Fri-Sat: 7:30 AM - 10 PM Sombrero Restaurant: Sun-Thu: 7:30 AM - 9 PM Fri-Sat: 7:30 AM - 10 PM Pedro's Ice Cream Fiesta: Daily: 11 AM - 8 PM Peddler Steakhouse (Dinner Only): Sun-Thu: 5 PM - 9:30 PM Fri-Sat: 5 PM - 10:30 PM Closed Mondays through Nov 25 Motor Inn & Truck Stop: OPEN 24/7 A Little History: South of the Border started in 1949 as a beer stand and quickly grew into one of America's most iconic roadside attractions. Located just south of the North Carolina state line on I-95, it became famous for its flashy signs, neon lights, giant Pedro statue, and over-the-top charm. At its peak, it included hotels, restaurants, fireworks stands, and even a mini amusement park. Worth the stop? Absolutely. Would we stay overnight? Probably not--unless it gets a refresh. If you're road-tripping down I-95, this is a must-see for a quick break, some photos, and fun shopping. Just hope they give it the glow-up it deserves!

South of the Border is one of my happy places. I love the sheer amount of unabashed tackiness. I…read morelove the billboards that start showing up on 95 halfway through North Carolina. I love Pedro. This time around we visited the Mexico store. Ten million glasses but Jeremy couldn't find the one he wanted (a silicone coffee mug). We did, however, leave with a back scratcher, a ten cent sticker, and a new magnet for my growing collection. We also took the opportunity to use the bathroom. I'm glad the ladies room was empty because the "accessible" stall was too small. And the toilet was so low to the floor I wasn't sure it wasn't made for a child. Afterward, we took a stroll across the pedestrian bridge where we found a second Mexico shop, with 90% of the same stuff for sale. People have started to put love padlocks on the pedestrian bridge. I've always wanted to do that. I even have my locks in the van, but haven't gotten around to putting our initials on them yet. Probably a good thing though, since Jeremy changed his last name a couple of months ago. Ah well. Next time, I suppose, because there's always a next time for me when it comes to South of the Border.

This is a great little place for business and shopping -- they've got a lot of nice stuff. It…read morealmost feels like being at "South of the Border" with its carnival-style atmosphere. I arrived around 4:00 in the afternoon, and it was pretty quiet with hardly anyone around. I did end up purchasing a couple of things, and I enjoyed walking through the area. The vibe reminded me of a small town fair, so I was really hoping to find some funnel cake -- but unfortunately, there wasn't any. I did treat myself to an ice cream cone, which hit the spot. Overall, if you're passing by, I'd recommend stopping in and picking up something. It's worth a quick visit, especially if you enjoy unique little roadside spots.

South of the Border is a place i can remember coming to as a child in the 80s. While i remember…read morebeing here- i honestly have no clue what we did here. I just remember being here. Back in Covid times i made a drive by to look around but more recently I finally decided to do an overnight stay here. What an adventure. South of the Border has the motor inn, which i finally stayed in. It's got an arcade, honestly which i found to be a little pitiful, but I'm not the market for that. The attraction also features a few gas stations, a small casino (they call it an Internet cafe), multiple restaurants, and gift shops. I don't feel like much has changed since i last visited (as a child) except maybe some paint. I think it's kind of fun to see at night when it's lit up - or partially lit up as sometimes not all of the lights are working - again this place can sometimes be a mess. It's a place that you can tell that once did well and one day just sort of stopped or was just forgotten about but enough people come so it stay open, but not enough people come for them to do any real work to it which is sad. The workers there were all extremely nice. Everyone i met while i was there was nice. I did think the items were a tad expensive for what i was getting but that did not stop me from buying multiple items that i definitely did not need. The gift shops have everything. I definitely loaded up on the Mexican made clay pots and frames. The idea of South of the Border is mildly insensitive but holds a special place in my heart. If I'm on a road trip and drive by i will always, always stop for a picture with Pedro.

If it is from the yesteryear then they have it here. Great selections of stuff and selection of new…read morenovelty items.

If your town or city don't have a Rocket Fizz " your town is…read morehurtin " This is the place I love to go for some memory lane old-Scool candy bars and confections Do you remember "Now and Laters, Bit-O-Honey, Bazooka bubble gum no comic strips ... darn Jolly Ranchers and many many more It a fun store. Check it out you'll find something sweet in no time! Thanks heaven for Rock Fizz it really brings back memories of my childhood but really wish the "Marathon Bar " was still around I really enjoyed that twisted chewy Chocolate caramel bar. Mars Wrigley please bring this great chewy bar back to the world the folks that haven't tryed it it's not fair for them!

Best gift shop in Elizabethtown!! Something for everyone! Love the wide range of foods!read more

I have visited this place numerous times since it opened in the summer. The frappes, the chai, and…read morethe Wedding Bliss coffee are the best things. I've recommended Wedding Bliss to many of my coworkers and it's an immediate hit. The owner is also the barista; she is friendly and is always ready to provide a good conversation. It is small and there are gifts other than coffee for purchase.

The service from Miss Mary was absolutely amazing! She was very patient with us and gave us plenty…read moreof time to shop even though the store was very close to closing. The different selection of items in there were appeasing to our taste. There were a lot of varieties. The value of the prices were as expected, A lot of things were handmade and with quality taste. Thank you Mary for your kindness!!!

This is a super fun little shop downtown that has all kinds of wonderful items! I come here a few…read moretimes a year to stock up on North Carolinian favorites and to get gifts for folks. The staff are all really helpful and friendly, and they will even make a gift basket for you!

Looking for "one of kind"gift??? This would be the place to look. They have a lot to look from…read more Prices range from inexpensive to some very nice items. Be sure and check them out.

The custom furniture and art made from scuba salvaged old growth pine was gorgeous. Alec was…read moreclearly passionate about the recovery process and took the time to explain everything to us. Additionally, he's done a fantastic job curating a collection of art from local artists and craftsmen to complement the salvage efforts. Will recommend to family and friends.

Stay away from this place! It has a ton of clothing and items you want to buy! I have a whole new…read morewardrobe of stylish comfy clothes that I probably will live in for a bit. (Great purchases). I bought some nice gifts for friends. My friends saw what I bought and made me bring them there. I bought more! Apparently I have to take more people there today. Scary good.

Super special store. Great selection and unique finds!!! Very friendly service. Check it out!read more

Tired, dated, a little dirty inside. Sells all the typical Myrtle Beach stuff: fireworks, sand…read moredollars, wind chimes, salt water taffy, t shirts, towels. Since it is an hour out of Myrtle Beach and on the side of the road that is easily accessible if you are heading westbound, I think this is kind of an "oh crap, I forgot to get a souvenir for grandma" type of stop. And this is the last place to do that if you are headed home from the beach. The food looked a little greasy. The poor hermit crabs looked pitiful trapped in the cage all crawling on top of each other. Everything here needs a good refresh. Maybe they could take all the money they spend on billboards and invest that into some improvements here.

**Sparky's in Marion, SC - A Charming Tourist Stop**…read more Sparky's is a cute and convenient stop if you're passing through Marion, SC. It's perfect for stretching your legs, browsing unique items, and making use of the clean restrooms. The staff were friendly and welcoming, which added to the charm of the visit. However, the prices left something to be desired, especially in the candy section. A box of chewy Sweet Tarts was $3.95--quite a jump compared to $1.25 at Dollar Tree. Because of the steep candy prices, I opted to try some local preserves instead. All in all, Sparky's is a nice rest stop for tourists, but be mindful of the prices if you're planning to shop. Great for a quick break, clean facilities, and a touch of local flair! Would I stop again? Probably, but mostly for the ambiance and the friendly vibes, not necessarily the shopping.

The Florist was recommended to me by a Dillon friend as I was looking for a florist to provide an…read morearrangement for my aunt's funeral. I called Judy and asked her to make an arrangement that complemented the other family arrangements. She and her staff did just that creating a beautiful, original design that complemented, but didn't mimic, the others. We'll definitely use The Florist again. Thanks, Judy!