Probably the best welcome center I have been to. Plenty of…read moreparking and picnic tables. New big building with swings on porch, big screen tv with comfortable seats, maps, information, clean, plenty of stalls in the clean bathroom, there were 3 employees standing around talking to each other- if you needed help I am sure the could give it. My only suggestion- since the employees were chit chatting in the middle of the room- maybe have them behind a desk so you could walk up to them.

Very welcoming staff there were like 5 ladies welcoming folks. There are two entrances and lots of…read morestaff to answer questions about their state. Hotels and restaurants and tourism. Lots of brochures. The bathrooms were gigantic and tidy. Very grateful to all the wonderful staff that does their job so well and cares for us all.

We made it to Buc-ees!!!!! Our first time here! I made a stop at Buc-ee's with my 8-year-old…read moregrandson and 2 baby Granddaughters, and let me tell you--it turned into a whole adventure! It wasn't long enough of a visit since the girls and their mom stayed in the car! GRRR.. From a grandma's perspective, the first thing I noticed was how clean and well-kept everything was. The restrooms? Absolutely spotless--honestly better than some hotels I've stayed in. There were green and red lights on the outside of each stall to let you know which stalls were available and which were occupied. The lines moved very quickly. That alone makes it worth the stop when you're traveling with kids. Now, for my grandson, this place was like walking into a wonderland. His eyes lit up the second we walked in. Between the rows of snacks, the huge drink stations, and all the fun Buc-ee's merchandise, he didn't know where to look first. He was especially fascinated with the Toy section there were so many to chose from. It was a Saturday so this place was very busy. I heard Al Roker from the Today show praise the brisket sandwiches. I also wanted one but the wait was too long. We ended up grabbing some treats--beaver nuggets (of course!), 3 slushies,beef jerkey, candy bars, chocolate covered pretzels, and a couple of souvenirs magnets, t-shirts, Buc-ees water bottle and a Buc-ees tumbler he insisted we "had to have." I appreciated that there were plenty of options, whether you want something indulgent or a quick, decent meal on the go. What really stood out to me was how easy everything felt, even with a little curious little boy in tow. Plenty of space, clear layout, and friendly staff who didn't seem bothered by all of the people shopping. All in all, Buc-ee's in Florence isn't just a gas stop--it's the ultimate shopping experience. You must go atleast once in your lifetime! If you're traveling with grandkids, plan a little extra time. Trust me, they won't want to rush through it--and honestly, neither will you. 5/5 Ambience 5/5 Service / Employee engagement 5/5 The variety of merchandise 5/5 The food Choices 5/5 Parking 5/5 prices I highly recommend!

ALL Buc-ee's are ALWAYS crowded, and the Florence location right off of I-95 is no exception…read more If you need to make a pit stop while on the road, Buc-ee's is your place. Their restroom are very clean and stalls are private, they have hundreds and hundreds of snacks to choose from, the best brisket sandwiches, a bacon, fudge, and sausage bar, dozens of slushie flavors, and more. They even have a clothes and home decor section! Buc-ee's truly has it all. They have gas, diesel, and ethanol-free gas available. RVs are permitted, but tractor trailers are not. If you don't stop in and check it out, you are missing out!!

A very nice rest area near Fayetteville There are 4 rest…read moreareas on the southbound side of I-95 in North Carolina. This rest area is located on southbound I-95 at mile marker 47 in Cumberland County, North Carolina, near Fayetteville. It serves as the southernmost rest stop in the state before crossing into South Carolina, making it a convenient final pause for travelers heading south. I have stopped here many times on numerous trips over the years, and it has consistently impressed me with its upkeep and amenities. The layout is thoughtful, with separate parking sections for cars and large trucks to ensure safety and organization. Interestingly, the truck parking is positioned closer to the highway, while the car parking is situated farther back, reducing noise for passenger vehicles. There always seems to be plenty of parking available, even during busier travel periods, which is a relief on long drives. The parking areas are centered around two single-story brick buildings that give the site a sturdy, welcoming feel. One building houses the restrooms, which are always clean, well-stocked, and functional, with modern fixtures and good lighting. Adjacent to it is the vending area, offering a selection of snacks, drinks, and quick refreshments for those needing a pick-me-up without leaving the interstate. The entire grounds are impeccably maintained, free of litter both inside the facilities and outside in the parking lots and green spaces. One standout feature is a very nice plaque dedicated to NCDOT employees who were killed in the line of duty--a poignant reminder to drive carefully and appreciate the efforts that keep our roads safe. Adding to the appeal, there are picnic benches scattered on both sides of the car driveway, providing spots to stretch your legs or enjoy a quick meal. Some tables are shaded under trees or canopies for comfort on sunny days, while others are open for those who prefer the sun. The shaded areas make it especially pleasant during warmer weather, and the overall landscaping contributes to a serene atmosphere amid the highway hustle. This rest area isn't overly fancy, but it excels in the basics: cleanliness, convenience, and a touch of thoughtfulness. Overall, it is a very nice rest area that always seems well maintained, and I highly recommend it to fellow travelers needing a reliable break on their journey through North Carolina. Enjoy.

Nice, Safe Rest Area Very clean bathrooms and plenty of open…read morespace -- the perfect place to walk your dog (or even your cat!) and let them relieve themselves. It's also a great spot to stretch your legs and take a break from driving. Peaceful, safe, and well-maintained -- exactly what you hope to find on the road.

​You'll see the billboards for 100 miles in either direction, and honestly, the anticipation is…read morepart of the experience. South of the Border is the ultimate "time capsule" of 1950s roadside America. It's unapologetically tacky, neon-drenched, and wonderfully weird. Is it a bit weathered? Yes. But it's a must-stop at least once in your life just to experience the sheer scale of Pedro's world. ​ ​The Sombrero Tower: For $5, you can take a glass elevator up 200 feet. The view of the I-95 corridor and the surrounding Carolina plains is actually really cool, and it's a great way to stretch your legs after hours of driving. ​ This is a photographer's playground. Between the giant Pedro statues, the fiberglass animals, and the vintage neon, your camera roll will be full. ​The Shopping: From fireworks at "Rocket City" to the most random souvenirs you didn't know you needed, the shops are massive.

The whole place seems anachronistic and dated. There's a musty aged smell in all the buildings, and…read morethe restrooms were minimally serviced with an ever present "urinal cake" smell. It was fascinating to stop by and see it, but it seems well past its prime.

When nature calls, the South Cumberland County Rest Stop is here for you! Cars and trucks are in…read moreseparate parking spaces to streamline the flow of traffic. Landscaping is nice and well maintained. And since we stopped by during the evening, the place was pretty well lit. Restrooms and vending machines are located in separate building. The restrooms themselves were (for the most part) clean, functioning, and well stocked with paper products. I would say there was one soap dispenser that needed some fixing and one faucet that wasn't working. Overall, it was a good place to stop by during our road trip.

Easy in and out of this rest stop - love it!…read more I was still half asleep when we stopped, so I didn't note the places to eat, but do know that the women's bathroom was quite clean. Close parking to the building.

A Timeless Stay at the Motor Inn - South of the Border, Hamer, NC…read more The Motor Inn at South of the Border is more than just a place to rest--it's a piece of Americana that deserves to shine again. From the neon glow at night to the nostalgic charm that lingers around every corner, staying here feels like stepping into another era. The rooms are simple, comfortable, and filled with the character of a roadside treasure that has welcomed travelers for generations. What makes this place special isn't just the rooms--it's the lure of South of the Border itself. This iconic stop has been part of countless road trips, family vacations, and southern adventures. Keeping it alive, relevant, and celebrated is important not only for travelers but for preserving a cultural landmark. That's why I, Thomas Miller--author of South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time--have dedicated my writing to capturing that magic. My book blends nostalgia with horror, weaving a story that keeps South of the Border alive in the imagination of readers everywhere. Horror might seem like an unlikely ally, but through it, I'm shining a light on this place, ensuring its legend continues and new generations rediscover its lure. If you're planning a road trip through North or South Carolina, I highly recommend booking a night at the Motor Inn. Come for the neon lights, stay for the history, and experience the atmosphere that inspired my novel. And if you want to take a piece of that magic with you, check out my book here: South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time .https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRYD4V23 From the Pen of Thomas Miller Author of South of the Border: The Motel That Eats Time

It's ok if you're just going for the attractions and to sleep, but the downfall is the tub doesn't…read moredrain well. You have to stand in a puddle to shower and the tubs cleanliness was questionable.

A decent rest stop near Lynchburg There are 6 rest areas on…read morethe northbound side of I-95 in South Carolina. This rest area is located on northbound I-95 at mile marker 139 near Lynchburg in Sumter County, South Carolina. It is a right-hand exit off the interstate, making it easy to access while traveling north. There are separate parking sections for large trucks and cars. The car parking closest to the road and the truck parking farther off. The main building is a single-story brick building with a shingle roof that looks wheelchair accessible. It houses clean and functional restrooms. There is a vending building to the north that is also a single-story affair. It offers snacks and drinks behind locked bars that did not give me a very safe feel for the stop. Shaded areas are available all around the site, along with some picnic tables scattered throughout for resting or eating. The entire area was free of trash during our visit, contributing to a pleasant stop. While it's not the fanciest rest area, it does provide the essentials for a quick break during long drives. Overall, I would recommend this as a decent place to stop on your travels through South Carolina. Enjoy.

This rest area is located on I-95 at mile marker 139 in Sumter County, South Carolina. There are…read moreboth northbound and southbound locations for this rest area. (At the time of writing this review, the Yelp listing is named "Rest Area I-95 North." To clarify, I'll submit a name change to "Rest Area I-95 Mile Marker 139" because this listing captures reviews, photos, etc. from both sides. Hopefully, the Yelp moderators approve.) If traveling south on I-95 into SC, this is the first rest area after the Dillon Welcome Center near the North Carolina border (mile marker 195). In other words, after the welcome center, it's about 56 miles until this rest area. After this rest area, the next rest area south is at mile marker 99, about 40 miles away. It's another welcome center, the Santee Welcome Center. If traveling north on I-95 in SC, mile marker 99 has a rest area. It's not a welcome center like the southbound side. According to Google Maps and Yelp, this rest area has an address in the town of Lynchburg, SC. However, Lynchburg is actually 16.5 miles up 95 and highway 58 in Lee County. For navigation, on Google Maps, the southbound listing for this rest area is named "Sumter County, SC Rest Area" and the northbound rest area is named "Rest Area I95 North." The southbound side of this rest area has a small log cabin. Above the entrance, a sign reads, "Sumter County Welcome Center. 'The Gamecock County.'" Sumter County was named after Revolutionary War general Thomas Sumter (1734-1832). He was nicknamed the "Fighting Gamecock." That's where the University of South Carolina Gamecocks' nickname and mascot came from. We stopped at the northbound side on a recent trip from Georgia to North Carolina. It was fine. The rest area was definitely showing its age. The grounds and facilities appeared clean and well maintained. We visited around 2:15pm on a Saturday and I saw staff working on-site. This is a small rest area with basic amenities -- vending machines and picnic tables (mostly uncovered). Along with using the restrooms, my wife and I had a bite to eat in the car. We parked in front of the refreshments structure. It was peaceful. According to the SCDOT, South Carolina has nine welcome centers and 19 rest areas. You can view a Google Map of them here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?msa=0&hl=en&ie=UTF8&t=m&ll=33.728438112159736%2C-80.81117&spn=2.899412%2C4.423489&source=embed&mid=12xkZRPbpJmK-c-xRLr6cAWn_780&z=7

Front Desk clerk very friendly. Very good quality sheets. Free breakfast. Not bad for the price.read more

I had a bad experience this trip with reservations but me and my fiance were bumped up to a ground…read morefloor king suite! The pool needs a lit attention and my door was not very secure. I unclogged the sink drain myself as the maintenance man wasn't there. Overall, besides the shady characters roaming g about, the stay was ok! Walmart very close and many choices in restaurants within a few steps. Waffle house is just steps away to! Huge Fireworks place just on the other side of the 95 bridge! Speedway just past that for $2.62 a gallon for unleaded! We went to the South of The Boarder area just 7 miles north. Good place to have fun. There is a asphalt racing track close to! I'll be back as long as the doors are fixed and secure!

I will start this review by saying....IF YOU HAVE A CHOICE BETWEEN SLEEPING IN YOUR CAR, AND…read moreSTAYING AT THIS MOTEL.....SLEEP IN YOUR CAR!!!!!! IF YOU HAVE A CHOICE BETWEEN SLEEPING AT A REST STOP .....SLEEP THERE!!!! BLACK MOLD, ROACHES and FILTH like I have never seen. The ONE positive was the desk person Dawn. She was helpful, kind, and went out of her way to answer questions from this tired traveler. This hotel needs to hold on to her....because honestly....the review goes down from here. Oh.....FREE WIFI...that is actually pretty good. I booked this hotel as I was driving on I-95, on my Travelocity app. Got the room for 43 dollars plus tax. WAY OVER PRICED! I am in room 107, and there is a flat screen TV in here. The first thing I did was disinfect the doorhandles, and the remote. (yeah).... The AC is OLD, and has.....crumbs, or a dead bug.....something in it. It is VERY dusty, and I have asthma. There is no way to change the direction of the vents, so I had to improvise and put the backs of both "chairs" to the AC vent, and direct the cooler air up, instead of on me. The owner REALLY needs to invest in some new furniture, and CLEAN THE CARPETS.....caulk the tub so it is white.......not rocket science. South Carolina is a very cool state...I would hate some ones impression of the state....to be this hotel. Ok ...uncle.( a few hours later) This place needs to be shut down. Seriously. Black mold, nothing is clean, roaches everywhere..Ick. I usually sleep naked....said no one ever in this hotel. This is one of the worst hotels I have ever stayed in....and that is saying something. I sprayed the comforter with bug spray and slept with my clothes on, on top of the comforter. NO SKIN touching.

Room 217. Non smoking, walked and smelled like something other then cigarettes…read more The room was Clean. Limited outlets one by the refigerator and by the door. Bathroom is clean.

This is the cleanest gas station/rest stop I've ever been at. Whenever I travel out to the coast, I…read morealways make sure to stop here because of how consistent the cleanliness is.

Nice employees. Nice and clean bathrooms. Good area. Will stop here again. Good snack selection…read more Decent access if you're headed east but will have to cross two lane highway if headed west.