South of the Border is a roadside amusement park straddling the North Carolina–South Carolina border

South of the Border is a 350-acre theme park and tourist stop built around the U.S.–Mexico border concept, located where Interstate 95 crosses from North Carolina into South Carolina near Dillon. The park opened in 1950 and has remained a fixture of I-95 travel for over 70 years. It combines a amusement park with a motel, restaurant, gift shop, and gas station — all designed around a playful border-crossing theme with Mexican and Southwestern décor.

The park is famous for its roadside billboards that appear for 100 miles in both directions on I-95, advertising attractions and encouraging drivers to stop. It operates year-round and draws families, road-trippers, and curiosity seekers passing through the region.

Key Takeaways

  • South of the Border sits on I-95 between North Carolina and South Carolina, making it straightforward to reach from the highway without detailed directions.
  • The park includes a roller coaster, go-kart tracks, arcade games, a water park, and a 200-foot observation tower called the Sombrero, along with a motel and restaurant.
  • Admission to the grounds is free, but individual attractions and rides charge separate fees or require tickets purchased on-site.
  • The park operates daily year-round, though hours and which attractions are open vary by season.
  • Parking is free, and the site includes a gas station, convenience store, and multiple dining options.

What attractions and rides are inside the park

The centerpiece is the Sombrero, a 200-foot observation tower shaped like a Mexican hat. Visitors can ride an elevator to the top for a view of the surrounding area. The park also has a wooden roller coaster called the Rebel Yell, go-kart racing tracks, bumper cars, and a log flume ride.

The arcade contains classic and modern games. The Water Park section includes a lazy river, wave pool, and water slides, though it operates seasonally (typically late spring through early fall). There is also a mini-golf course, a shooting gallery, and various carnival-style games throughout the grounds.

The park's restaurant serves American and Mexican-style food. The motel on-site has rooms available for overnight stays. A gift shop sells souvenirs, snacks, and regional merchandise. The gas station is open 24 hours and serves travelers on I-95.

How to pay for rides and attractions

Admission to walk around the park grounds is free. Individual rides and attractions charge separate fees. You can pay per ride as you go, or purchase a wristband that covers unlimited rides for a set period (usually one day). Prices vary by attraction and season.

The water park, if open, typically requires a separate admission fee or wristband. Go-kart racing charges by the race or by time. The Sombrero observation tower charges a per-person fee to ride to the top. Arcade games and carnival games use tokens or coins you purchase on-site.

The park accepts cash and major credit cards at ticket booths and attractions. It is worth checking the official website or calling ahead to confirm current prices and which attractions are operating on the day you plan to visit, as hours and availability change seasonally.

Directions and parking

South of the Border is located at 9900 Old Highway 501, Dillon, South Carolina 29536. If you are traveling on I-95, take Exit 1 (the southernmost exit in North Carolina, just before the state line). The park is directly off the highway and is impossible to miss — the Sombrero tower and billboards mark it clearly.

Parking is free and plentiful. The lot is large enough to accommodate cars, RVs, and tour buses. If you are staying at the motel, parking is included. The gas station is accessible without entering the paid attractions, so you can stop to refuel without paying park admission.

What to expect during different seasons

The park operates year-round, but what is open changes by season. Spring through fall is peak season, when all or most attractions run daily. The water park typically opens in late May or early June and closes in early September. Summer is the busiest time, with the longest hours and all attractions operating.

Fall and winter see reduced hours and some attractions closing on weekdays. The Sombrero, roller coaster, and arcade usually remain open year-round, but go-kart tracks and water rides may close during cold months. Weekends typically have more attractions running than weekdays, even in off-season.

Weather can affect operations — heavy rain may close water rides or the water park, and extreme cold may shut down outdoor attractions. If you are planning a visit during fall, winter, or early spring, call ahead or check the website to confirm which attractions will be open on your visit date.

Nearby lodging and dining options

The park's own motel has rooms available, ranging from basic to more comfortable accommodations. Booking directly through the park's website or by phone is the most straightforward approach. The motel is convenient if you want to spend the night without leaving the property.

The park's restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are also fast-casual options and a snack bar throughout the grounds. If you prefer dining outside the park, the Dillon area has chain restaurants and local options within a few miles of the exit.

The surrounding region has other motels and hotels near the I-95 corridor. Dillon itself is a small town with basic services. If you are planning an overnight stay, the park motel is the most convenient option, but nearby chain hotels offer alternatives if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay to enter the park grounds?

No. Walking around the park and viewing the attractions is free. You only pay when you choose to ride something or play a game. The Sombrero, roller coaster, water park, and go-karts all charge separate fees.

Is the water park included with park admission?

No. The water park charges a separate admission fee or wristband price. It operates seasonally, typically from late May through early September. Check the park's website or call to confirm it is open on the day you plan to visit.

Can I bring my own food into the park?

The park's policy on outside food varies. It is best to call ahead or check the website to confirm current rules. The park has restaurants and snack stands throughout, so food is available on-site.

How long does a typical visit take?

A quick stop to see the Sombrero and walk around takes 1 to 2 hours. A full day with multiple rides, the water park, and meals can take 6 to 8 hours. Plan based on which attractions interest you and how much time you have.

Is South of the Border suitable for young children?

Yes. The park has attractions for all ages, including rides for small children, a water park, and games. Some rides have height or age restrictions. The park is family-oriented and has been a family destination for decades.