In an intriguing development along Interstate 95, a significant portion of the iconic South of the Border roadside attraction is now available for purchase. This sale includes 30 acres of diverse attractions, including the Pedroland amusement park, the “SOB Convention Center,” a motel facility, a mini-golf course, and additional undeveloped land, with a former casino also part of the package. The asking price for this property is $2.85 million.
While these sections are up for sale, the South of the Border will continue to operate its distinctive sombrero observation tower, the reptile lagoon, and its collection of souvenir shops and dining establishments. The main motel and campground will also remain open for visitors.
Ken Jackson, the real-estate agent overseeing the sale, anticipates a buyer will repurpose the location to leverage the heavy I-95 traffic. However, any new owner must refrain from selling fireworks, a staple of the existing South of the Border offerings. “We’ve had a lot of interest from people wanting to do that, but that’s the only thing that wouldn’t be allowed,” Jackson shared with WUNC.
The potential for redevelopment into a hotel or other travel-related business is significant, as Jackson pointed out the site’s continued appeal despite competition from the recently opened Buc-ee’s truck stop near Florence, South Carolina. “Buc-ee’s is the new shiny toy, and it is attractive to travelers as well, but there are plenty of people traveling up and down the interstate, and enough for both businesses,” Jackson remarked.
While the amusement park is unlikely to see new life under a new owner, Jackson sees opportunities for other ventures such as a modern hotel, RV sales, or service center. “I’m not sure there’s much demand for amusement parks of that size anymore, but it’s a great opportunity for someone to go in and build a modern hotel,” he added. Notably, the old carousel on site will not be part of the sale.
South of the Border has been a quirky landmark since the 1950s, but it has faced scrutiny for its stereotypical imagery of a Mexican character in its advertising. Slogans like “You never sausage a place! You’re always a weiner at Pedro’s!” are among its notable billboards.
Historically, the location featured a casino, benefiting from the legal discrepancies between the Carolinas regarding video poker. However, South Carolina’s current gambling laws are stricter, with gambling options now present just a few miles away in Rowland, North Carolina.
