Kansas Welcomes Its First Buc-ee’s Travel Center – A Texas-Sized Attraction Heads to the Heartland!

The Kansas City area will soon become the proud home of its very first Buc-ee's! This exciting development was made official after the Unified Government (UG) of Wyandotte County approved the final steps in the planning process during a meeting on Thursday night. For those familiar with Buc-ee’s, this Texas-based travel center is much more than a pit stop; it’s a true destination, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see it expand further into the Midwest.

A Milestone for Kansas and Buc-ee’s
This will be the first Buc-ee’s in Kansas, arriving just under a year after the brand opened its first Missouri location in Springfield. Set to be constructed at 601 Village West Parkway in Kansas City, Kansas, this location promises the same beloved Buc-ee’s experience but in a new region of the country. The site is ideally situated near Kansas Speedway, Hollywood Casino, and Legends Outlets, making it a prime spot to attract visitors far and wide. The 25-acre plot, owned by Kansas Speedway, was rezoned from agricultural to commercial by the UG, paving the way for Buc-ee’s to move forward with a development agreement and finalize the land purchase.

What to Expect at Kansas’s First Buc-ee’s
If the renderings are any indication, this Buc-ee’s location will be a sight to behold. The travel center is slated to span 74,000 square feet, housing 120 gas pumps, 12 electric vehicle charging stations, and an impressive retail space filled with the signature Buc-ee’s food and merchandise. Buc-ee’s projects that this location will draw in over four million annual visitors, with many expected to come from outside of Kansas – a testament to the chain’s loyal fanbase and reputation as a "Traveler's Oasis."

Adding to the excitement, the Kansas location will provide around 200 jobs with competitive wages starting between $18 and $21 per hour. With a $95 million price tag primarily funded through private investments, Buc-ee’s is making a major commitment to Kansas City, Kansas.

Another Check on Our Buc-ee’s List

For us, Buc-ee’s is never just a stop; it’s the destination. Each new location offers something unique, and we’re already eagerly planning our visit to Kansas to experience this new addition firsthand. As part of our “Buc-ee’s List,” the Kansas location will soon join our growing list of Buc-ee’s we’ve visited across the country, with more exciting locations coming soon! Buc-ee’s fans know that the store’s incredible restrooms, endless snack options, and extensive merchandise make every visit special. From the Big Buckin' Brisket to Beaver Nuggets and hidden gems like Buc-ee’s salsa, there’s always something to discover.

This latest addition marks a major milestone for Buc-ee’s as it continues to expand beyond its Texas roots, welcoming new fans and spreading joy along the way. Kansas, get ready to experience the ultimate travel center – Buc-ee’s is on its way, and it’s bound to be unforgettable!

New Buc-ee's Location in South Carolina Approved Near Hilton Head and Savannah

Exciting news for Buc-ee’s fans and road-trippers along the southern I-95 corridor: a new Buc-ee's location has received preliminary approval from Hardeeville City Council and is on track to open just off Exit 8 of I-95. This highly anticipated location, nestled conveniently near Hilton Head and Savannah, will offer weary travelers a spot to recharge in Buc-ee’s iconic style.

Expected to be finalized on November 21, this development will bring only the second Buc-ee’s to South Carolina; the first opened off I-95 in Florence, about 165 miles up the road from Hardeeville. With Buc-ee’s signature blend of Texas warmth, legendary snacks, and clean facilities, this location promises to be a beacon for travelers. According to Scott Ratcliff, Buc-ee’s Director of Engineering, the Hardeeville Buc-ee’s is positioned to “pull in weary travelers,” offering them the "world’s cleanest bathrooms," friendly service, and a vast array of food options to keep them fueled for the road ahead.

This new Buc-ee’s will feature an enormous lot with dozens of gas pumps, hundreds of parking spaces, and plenty of Texas-style food offerings, including kolaches, tacos, and the fan-favorite chopped brisket sandwich. The welcoming Texas-sized smiles of the Buc-ee’s team will be there to serve up delicious food and beverages to travelers, adding to what many call a “must-stop” destination.

This Buc-ee’s is also a special milestone for us. My wife and I are looking forward to visiting this new location as part of our ongoing “Buc-ee’s List” journey to check off every single location. If you spot us on your visit, don’t hesitate to say "Howdy"!

Buc-ee’s Coming to West Memphis, Arkansas: A New Tourist Hotspot

West Memphis, Arkansas, is buzzing with excitement as Buc-ee’s Travel Center announces plans to open a massive new location here, bringing a surge of job opportunities, tourism, and community growth. Known for its ultra-clean restrooms, signature brisket sandwiches, and iconic Beaver Nuggets, Buc-ee’s will soon add West Memphis to its roster of must-visit destinations, making it one of the largest Buc-ee’s locations in the region.

Mayor Marco McClendon couldn’t be more thrilled about the impact Buc-ee’s will have on the community. “We’re making everything so attractive around here,” McClendon said. “When you’ve got jobs coming here and economic development growth, people want to be here. You can live, work, and play in West Memphis.” 

Buc-ee’s will be built on 34 acres of land on the south side of eastbound Interstate 40 and Interstate 55, near Cracker Barrel, in a prime location for passing travelers and locals alike. The 74,000-square-foot travel center will feature Buc-ee’s famous wall of snacks and fresh food, 225 new jobs, and a draw that reaches well beyond the city limits.

The Perfect Intersection of Convenience and Tourism
Strategically positioned near Interstates 40 and 55, one of the country’s busiest interstate corridors, Buc-ee’s West Memphis location will provide easy access for travelers from all over. Mayor McClendon noted, “We have our 40/55, which is the second or third busiest interstate in the country. We also have the Mississippi River, our own airport, and five of the six major rail lines here.” This blend of accessibility and infrastructure promises a major boost to tourism in the region, as Buc-ee’s fans from neighboring states make their way to West Memphis.

Jim Jackson, West Memphis Director of Tourism, shares the excitement, noting that Buc-ee’s is truly a “tourist destination” for many. “People plan their vacations and trips around a Buc-ee’s location,” he said. “The fact that they decided to come to West Memphis is very exciting.”

Adding West Memphis Buc-ee’s to Our “Buc-ee’s List”

As devoted Buc-ee’s fans, we’re eagerly adding this new West Memphis location to our “Buc-ee’s List”—our quest to visit every Buc-ee’s across the country. We can’t wait to make the trip once it opens, indulging in everything from Beaver Nuggets to their famously fresh barbecue.

A Destination, Not Just a Stop
Buc-ee’s has long been more than just a travel center—it’s a destination in itself. As West Memphis prepares to welcome this iconic chain, the local community can look forward to both immediate and long-term benefits. Beyond the job creation and economic growth, Buc-ee’s West Memphis location will be a place where people gather, refuel, and enjoy a unique experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Stay tuned for updates on the opening date. West Memphis is ready, and so are we—our Buc-ee’s List awaits its latest addition!

Buc-ee’s Expands West with First Location in Gallaway, Tennessee

Get ready, Tennessee! The beloved Texas-based travel center Buc-ee’s is officially breaking ground in Gallaway, marking its very first location in West Tennessee. Known for its vast selection of snacks, ultra-clean restrooms, and Texas-sized hospitality, Buc-ee’s has steadily gained fans nationwide. Now, it’s making a splash in the Volunteer State, adding a new must-visit destination in Fayette County.

On November 13th at 9 a.m., the groundbreaking ceremony will kick off for this major addition. Positioned conveniently at the intersection of Interstate 40 and Tennessee 196, the 74,000-square-foot travel center promises to bring a new level of convenience and comfort to West Tennessee travelers.

According to Buc-ee’s Director of Real Estate and Development, Stan Beard, Gallaway offers “a perfectly beautiful spot for us to land.” He continued, “We are excited to be a part of the Gallaway community.” And this is no ordinary convenience stop. Buc-ee’s Gallaway location will boast 120 fueling positions, an impressive 71 restrooms, and a wide range of snacks and signature food items Buc-ee’s fans know and love.

Crissy Gonzales, Buc-ee’s media spokesperson, shared that the new location is expected to open its doors in early 2026. Once operational, this Buc-ee’s will create more than 200 full-time jobs, offering wages well above minimum wage, full benefits, a 6% 401(k) match, and three weeks of paid vacation—an employee package designed to bring stability and growth to the area.

Buc-ee’s Iconic Food and Snacks Await

The Gallaway Buc-ee’s will offer fan-favorite snacks and meals for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Buc-ee’s lineup of freshly-prepared treats like the sliced brisket sandwich, kolaches, and legendary Beaver Nuggets is bound to make an impression. And for sweet tooth cravings, Buc-ee’s will bring its homemade fudge, cinnamon almonds, and the addictive Tiger Butter fudge to Gallaway, ensuring that no traveler leaves unsatisfied.

The Gallaway location will join the lineup of new Buc-ee’s planned for the Mid-South, including a recently announced location in West Memphis, Arkansas, just ten minutes from Downtown Memphis. Located on the eastbound side of I-40, the West Memphis Buc-ee’s will add another convenient stop for fans in the region.

Adding Gallaway to Our “Buc-ee’s List”
As Buc-ee’s enthusiasts, this new Gallaway location is high on our “Buc-ee’s List”—our goal to visit every Buc-ee’s location. This Thanksgiving week, we’re planning to visit Tennessee’s two current Buc-ee’s locations in Crossville and Sevierville for a little holiday road trip adventure. With Gallaway set to open in a couple of years, we’re already looking forward to adding it to our list of memorable Buc-ee’s stops.

A New Tennessee Travel Destination
As Gallaway prepares to welcome Buc-ee’s, this venture solidifies the brand’s commitment to creating “traveler’s oases” far beyond Texas. With its signature combination of comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere, Buc-ee’s is sure to become a favorite stop for West Tennessee and Memphis area residents.

Mark your calendars: November 13th is just the beginning. Soon, travelers through West Tennessee will have an exciting new destination to enjoy, with Buc-ee’s unmistakable charm, impeccable restrooms, and, of course, Beaver Nuggets aplenty.

Buc-ee's Wisconsin: Construction Delayed Until After November Election

Buc-ee’s, the iconic Texas-based convenience store known for its massive size and wide variety of offerings, is making its way north to Wisconsin! The small village of DeForest, just north of Madison in Dane County, is set to host one of the world’s largest Buc-ee’s locations—a 74,000-square-foot mega-store complete with 120 gas pumps and 20 electric vehicle charging stations. However, there’s been a hiccup in the road: the project’s construction has been delayed until after the November 5th election.

According to DeForest Village Administrator Bill Chang, the store’s anticipated traffic flow—estimated between 4,000 and 8,000 vehicles per day—could have a dramatic impact on local infrastructure. While the economic benefits of Buc-ee's are clear, including a projected $25 million in annual gross taxable sales and the creation of 200-225 jobs, the village is still grappling with how to manage the increased traffic flow. Studies have shown that the current infrastructure around the Interstate 39/90/94 interchange in DeForest cannot support this influx.

To tackle this, Buc-ee’s has proposed a $15 million upgrade to the interchange, offering to cover up to $8.1 million of the costs. This leaves local officials needing to secure additional funding to cover the remaining expenses. Chang mentioned that the village has considered creating a tax improvement district as one way to generate funds, but the final decision hinges on the results of several key local and state elections happening in early November. 

“We anticipate that we'll need some political help with the interchange project,” Chang said. “We know that the impacts are far-reaching, but we definitely can’t do it ourselves. We’re waiting to see who’s going to help us.”

For Buc-ee’s, choosing DeForest as the location for its first Wisconsin store is a strategic move. Positioned along major interstate routes, the store will not only serve locals but also travelers passing through. The land, already owned by Buc-ee’s, is ideal for what they envision—a massive destination that will pull in people from all over the region. 

This location is also particularly exciting because it will mark the northernmost Buc-ee’s to date, bringing the Buc-ee’s experience further than it has ever been. From its famous Beaver Nuggets to its Texas-style barbecue, Buc-ee’s aims to make a big splash in the Midwest.

DeForest residents are split on the project. On one hand, many are excited about the jobs, economic growth, and unique experiences Buc-ee’s will bring to the area. On the other hand, concerns about traffic congestion remain, with some residents worried about how the influx of visitors will affect their daily commutes. The village plans to hold sessions for community input later in the process to address these concerns.

With Buc-ee’s owning the land and the overall project estimated to cost $50 million, the company remains committed to bringing their Texas hospitality to the Midwest. The store is projected to generate around $1 million annually in state sales tax revenue—another reason local officials are eager to see the project succeed.

But until the November election, the future of Buc-ee’s in DeForest remains in a holding pattern. The results will determine which representatives will help navigate the approval and funding necessary to support the interchange upgrade. Once the political landscape is clearer, construction plans should start to move forward.

As die-hard Buc-ee’s enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to see the iconic beaver make its way to Wisconsin! This location is already on our “Buc-ee’s List,” and we’re eagerly planning our visit once it opens. We’ll keep our readers updated on the progress and are excited to experience Buc-ee’s northernmost store when the time comes. We’ll be sure to share our first impressions and, of course, our go-to snacks and souvenirs. Stay tuned, Buc-a-roos!

Keep following our journey as we track this development and plan our future Buc-ee’s adventures across the country!

Buc-ee's Begins Construction on Highly Anticipated Goodyear, AZ Travel Center

Work has officially begun on the eagerly awaited Buc-ee's travel center in Goodyear, Arizona! The new site is strategically located on Bullard Avenue, just south of the I-10 freeway, designed to be a hub for both travelers and locals alike. This marks Buc-ee’s first venture into Arizona, a significant milestone for the iconic Texas-based chain

Scott Ray, Buc-ee’s Director of Construction, shared an update on the progress: “We are currently in the early grading phase. Once we have completed that, then we’ll start to put utilities in.” The initial phase focuses on clearing the site to make way for utility work, laying the groundwork for the travel center's development. 

Known for their enormous travel centers, Buc-ee's offers an experience far beyond that of a typical gas station. The Goodyear location will span an impressive 74,000 square feet, making it about 23% larger than a football field. Fans can expect all the beloved Buc-ee’s staples, including freshly prepared barbecue, homemade fudge, Beaver Nuggets, and its famous “wall of beef jerky.”

In line with Buc-ee’s reputation, the Goodyear store will also feature clean, well-maintained restrooms and an extensive selection of snacks and merchandise, creating a one-stop destination for travelers. “We are designed for travelers, so we want to be right off the freeway for those traveling so that they can pull in and get the best experience they’ve ever had,” Ray explained.

This project is not only significant for Buc-ee's but also for the Goodyear community. The new location is expected to generate over 200 full-time jobs, complete with benefits, and draw visitors from across Arizona and beyond. Buc-ee’s often partners with local vendors and artisans, ensuring that products represent the unique flavor of the region. 

Additionally, the travel center will include a massive 120 fueling stations, providing convenience for road travelers. By attracting a steady stream of visitors, Buc-ee’s will contribute to Goodyear's General Fund, supporting vital city services such as public safety and parks.

Buc-ee's fans are eagerly anticipating the opening of the Goodyear location, which is projected to welcome guests by the end of 2025. With its variety of offerings and unparalleled experience, this Buc-ee’s promises to become a must-visit destination for road trippers and locals alike.

For those tracking their own ‘Buc-ee’s List’ like us, this new location is one to watch! Stay tuned to Food and Flame for updates as construction progresses, and be sure to subscribe to keep up with all things Buc-ee's as we continue to explore their expansion across the country.

Buc-ee’s Eyes Monroe County for Georgia’s Fourth Location: What We Know So Far

Buc-ee’s fans in Georgia, get ready for more of the world-famous beaver-themed oasis! The Texas-based mega convenience store chain confirms that it is actively exploring Monroe County as the site for its fourth Georgia location. If everything goes as planned, the new store could rise just off I-75, near the Rumble Road exit. This spot is a mere 30 miles from Buc-ee’s first Georgia outpost in Fort Valley.

What’s the Latest?
According to Buc-ee's Director of Real Estate, Stan Beard, Jr., the company is excited about the potential Monroe County site. "We have plenty of work still to do, and planning steps to complete, but we’re excited about the opportunity," Beard said. It’s clear that while the company is moving forward, there are still several regulatory hurdles to overcome before we see shovels hitting the ground.

Joyce White, President of the Development Authority of Monroe County, confirmed that zoning approval is one of the next major steps. Buc-ee’s aims to present its proposal to the Monroe County Commission in December for approval. White noted that the proposed site is located at the northwest corner of Rumble Road, next to Meadows Clay Shooting. 

What Makes This Location Ideal?
White expressed her enthusiasm for Buc-ee’s interest in the area, stating, "They are just a good steward or neighbor to have in our community." With its prime location off I-75, the land could have been used for other large industrial developments. But having Buc-ee’s take the spot is seen as a win for Monroe County.

The community benefits extend beyond convenience. Buc-ee’s is known for creating jobs that offer above-average pay and benefits, and Monroe County residents are already excited about the opportunities. "A lot of people get excited about working for Buc-ee’s," White added. "It’s friendly, it pays well, they have good benefits."

What’s Next for the Project?
If the Monroe County Commission approves the zoning in December, Buc-ee’s estimates a timeline of approximately 15 months from the start of construction to the grand opening. That means we could see the new Buc-ee’s opening its doors sometime in 2026.

The project has been in the works for over a year, according to White, who suspected Buc-ee’s was behind the development due to the large scale and number of gas pumps planned. “Once they were comfortable, they identified themselves," she noted, emphasizing that the location at Rumble Road and I-75 is seen as ideal for Buc-ee’s expansion.

Buc-ee’s Success in Georgia
Georgia’s two existing Buc-ee’s locations, in Warner Robins and Calhoun, have each become popular destinations for travelers. Warner Robins, the state’s first Buc-ee’s, opened in November 2020 and has since become a model for future locations. Monroe County’s proposed Buc-ee’s would significantly surpass its predecessors, boasting a 74,000-square-foot facility and 120 gas pumps. For comparison, the existing Georgia stores are around 53,000 square feet each.

While Monroe County’s Buc-ee’s is still in the planning stages, the company is also making progress elsewhere in the state. In Brunswick, a new location is set to open in June 2025 after breaking ground earlier this year.

What’s Next for Us?
You better believe this new spot is already on our 'Buc-ee’s List!' We can’t wait to visit the Monroe County location once it opens, adding it to our growing list of Buc-ee’s adventures. Keep an eye out on foodandflame.com as we continue to track the development of this site and other exciting Buc-ee’s news. If you spot us on our travels, be sure to say hello!

Stay tuned for updates as we follow Buc-ee’s path through the zoning process and the progress leading up to construction. We’re excited to share every detail as Monroe County gets closer to welcoming Buc-ee’s.

Buc-ee’s is Coming to Arkansas: Benton Welcomes the Beaver!

For my wife and me, Buc-ee's is more than a pit stop—it’s an adventure, a destination, and, honestly, a part of our "Buc-ee’s List" (our fun twist on a bucket list, where we're determined to visit every Buc-ee's in the country). And now, we’re thrilled to add a new stop to that list: Arkansas!

That’s right—Buc-ee’s is officially coming to Saline County, right in Benton, Arkansas, nestled between exits 114 and 116 along I-30. After over a year of rumors and anticipation, the news was made official in front of thousands of fans at the 2024 Salt Bowl, with none other than Buc-ee himself making a surprise appearance! Can you imagine the excitement in the air? It’s not every day that a beloved beaver steals the show under the Friday night lights.

But the biggest star of the night wasn’t just Buc-ee—it was Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who shared the big news with a video announcement. “Buc-ee’s is coming to Arkansas and Saline County, right in the heart of our state will be its home,” she said. No need for Arkansans to hit the road to neighboring states for a brisket sandwich, Beaver Nuggets, or, let’s be honest, the cleanest restrooms around. It’s all happening right here!

Mayor Tom Farmer was equally ecstatic, announcing the grand plans at the game. "This is a fantastic move for our county, for our city, and for the state of Arkansas," he said. And I’m sure he’ll be just as excited as I am to share a brisket sandwich with the Governor at the grand opening!

Though the official completion date isn’t set just yet, the final permit is expected to be in hand soon, which means construction will be underway before we know it. The Benton location will be the very first Buc-ee’s in Arkansas, making it a major milestone not only for Saline County but for the entire state.

From securing land near the Haskell exit on I-30 to the city council’s approval of the soon-to-be-famous Buc-ee’s Boulevard, this project has been a long time coming. And now, after months of planning, the contracts have been signed, the location confirmed, and Arkansas is ready for the grand arrival of Buc-ee’s.

For my wife and me, adding the Benton Buc-ee’s to our growing list is an absolute joy, and I’m sure many fellow Arkansans are as excited as we are to welcome this Texas-sized traveler’s paradise to the Natural State. Get ready, Arkansas—Buc-ee’s is about to make road trips a lot more exciting!

Buc-ee’s: More Than Just a Pit Stop—It’s the Destination

For someone like me, Buc-ee's isn’t just another convenience store—it's a traveler's oasis. Whether it's the smell of fresh brisket from the Texas Round Up, a bag of Beaver Nuggets, or a much-needed bathroom break in the cleanest restrooms you’ll find on the road, Buc-ee's is always the highlight of any trip. My wife and I love it so much that we’ve made it our mission to visit every single location across the country. For us, Buc-ee's isn't a stop along the way—it is the way.

But not everyone seems to share that level of devotion. According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), Buc-ee’s ranked third in their recent convenience store study, based on feedback from over 5,700 customers. In a tight race, Wawa took the top spot with a score of 82, followed closely by QuickTrip (QT) at 81, and Buc-ee’s and Murphy USA tied at 80.

So what gave Wawa and QT the edge? According to the study, food options were key. Wawa’s famous hoagies and QT’s pizza from their QT Kitchens were big draws for their loyal customers. While those may be crowd-pleasers, Buc-ee’s offers something more—the experience. From quirky t-shirts to rows of fresh jerky, and yes, those award-winning clean restrooms, Buc-ee’s turns a quick stop into a full-fledged adventure.

One reason for Buc-ee’s ranking might simply come down to location. While QT and Wawa are built for convenience, often close to urban areas, Buc-ee's stores are more spread out in rural locations. A drive to Buc-ee’s in Hillsboro or Temple from Austin or Dallas may not be quick, but for me, the journey is always worth it.

In contrast, 7-Eleven and Shell ranked near the bottom of the list, with Shell coming in last at 74. For many, these chains simply serve as places to refuel and grab a snack, while Buc-ee’s provides something much more—a destination in itself.

So while the rankings might put Buc-ee’s in third, it’s always first in my book. There’s just no other place like it.

Florida’s Next Buc-ee’s One Step Closer to Construction: St. Lucie County Set to Welcome Beaver Nuggets and Brisket Sandwiches!

Exciting news for Buc-ee’s fans in the Sunshine State! Florida drivers will soon have another stop to satisfy their cravings for beaver nuggets and brisket sandwiches on the Treasure Coast.

A fourth Buc-ee’s location is moving forward in St. Lucie County. This week, the county commission voted to amend sign regulations, allowing Buc-ee’s to erect a towering 100-foot sign, paving the way for the new store. The change permits signs up to 100 feet tall and 640 square feet in designated retail workplace zones near Indrio Road and I-95.

The future Buc-ee’s, located at the northwest corner of the site, will boast an 80,000-square-foot travel center, complete with 120 fuel pumps and over 720 parking spaces—plenty of room for all those eager to make a pit stop at this travelers’ oasis.

County records reveal that the Buc-ee’s development has been in the works since February 2024, and it’s not the only one on the horizon. In April, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $4 million to the Florida Department of Transportation to support the construction of a new interchange on I-75 in Marion County, where another Buc-ee’s is planned in Ocala.

Currently, Florida is home to two other Buc-ee’s locations: St. Augustine and Daytona Beach. My wife and I are thrilled to be visiting both of these during the week of Christmas 2024—perfect timing to spread a little Buc-ee’s cheer! And Governor DeSantis, if you’re near St. Augustine or Daytona Beach during the holidays, we’d love to see you (maybe over a brisket sandwich?).

New Buc-ee's Set to Break Ground in Oak Grove, Kentucky: What to Expect from the Latest Traveler's Oasis

Buc-ee's fans in Western Kentucky, rejoice! A brand-new Buc-ee's is set to break ground in Oak Grove, just south of Hopkinsville in Christian County, near the Tennessee border and Fort Campbell. The groundbreaking is scheduled for early in the first quarter of 2025, with a projected completion date in the first half of 2026. This will be the third Buc-ee's in Kentucky, joining the locations in Richmond and Smiths Grove—an exciting milestone for locals and road-trippers alike.

While Richmond may be a familiar name, the Smiths Grove location has earned a unique distinction as the smallest city in the United States to host a Buc-ee's. With a population of just over 700, Smiths Grove proves that even small towns can house the legendary Texas-sized convenience store. Now, Oak Grove, located about 20 miles south of Hopkinsville, is poised to expand the Buc-ee's footprint in Kentucky's western region.

Like every Buc-ee's, the Oak Grove location will feature all the signature elements that make Buc-ee's a destination, not just a pit stop. Expect to find:

• World-famous brisket: Freshly carved in front of you and piled high on a bun, this brisket is a must-try for anyone passing through.
• Irresistible fudge**: With a variety of flavors ranging from chocolate peanut butter to rocky road, Buc-ee's fudge is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on your drive.
• Bakery delights: From kolaches to freshly baked cookies, the bakery is the heart of Buc-ee's indulgent treats. Make sure to pick up a cinnamon roll or one of their delicious apple pies for the road.

Of course, there will also be the beloved Buc-ee's snacks like Beaver Nuggets, freshly roasted nuts, and an assortment of sandwiches and salads, making it hard to leave without filling up a bag (or two).

A Little Message to "Beaver"

Now, while we're excited to see the third Buc-ee's location in Kentucky break ground, we can't help but wonder if Buc-ee's co-founder, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, has thought about a spot that’s been aching for its own Buc-ee’s—Villa Rica, Georgia. Sure, Smiths Grove may hold the title of smallest city with a Buc-ee’s for now, but Villa Rica, just west of Atlanta, is calling your name, Beaver! Just think—brisket sandwiches in the heart of Georgia, plus some of that signature fudge. We’ll keep our fingers crossed for the future!

As always, Buc-ee's in Oak Grove will be more than a gas station; it’ll be a true traveler’s oasis, offering clean, spacious restrooms, unique Buc-ee's merchandise, and enough snacks and food options to make even the longest road trips more enjoyable. This location will also be a fantastic stop for those traveling near Fort Campbell and the Kentucky-Tennessee border.

With the promise of brisket, bakery goods, and unbeatable Buc-ee's hospitality, Oak Grove is already shaping up to be a can’t-miss stop. We’re counting down to the 2025 groundbreaking and can’t wait to see what this new location brings to the Bluegrass State.

So, whether you’re a local, a frequent traveler through Western Kentucky, or just someone who loves Buc-ee's (we see you, Texas!), be sure to keep an eye on the progress of this new store. We’ll be updating you as the opening gets closer!

My wife and I are already planning our trip to the new Oak Grove Buc-ee's once it opens, and we couldn't be more excited to explore everything this new location will offer. As with every Buc-ee's, it's not just about the food and snacks (though the brisket is a big part of it!), it's about the experience and the adventure of each stop. If you happen to spot us while you're in Oak Grove—or at any Buc-ee’s—don’t be shy! Come say, "Hi," and I'll gladly give you a Big Buckin' Beaver salute. We love meeting fellow Buc-ee's fans on the road!

Buc-ee's is Bringing Big Bucks to Murfreesboro!

The beloved beaver is expanding once again, and this time, it's getting closer to Murfreesboro, Tennessee! Buc-ee’s has officially announced plans to break ground on a new location in Oak Grove, Kentucky by the end of the year, but the Murfreesboro store has been in the works for quite a while.

While the project hit a slight delay due to a pipe shortage, construction is back on track. Crews are currently working to realign the roadway off Joe B. Jackson Parkway, clearing the way for Buc-ee’s to begin building. The roadway work is expected to be completed by the end of this year or early next year. Once done, construction on the store itself will take about a year and a half to finish.

The arrival of Buc-ee’s is more than just exciting for road trippers; it’s a huge economic win for the city. The Buc-ee’s in Crossville, TN has brought in between $5 and $5.5 million in revenue from non-petroleum sales (just inside sales!), while Sevierville is seeing about $9.5 million from shoppers, many of whom travel from over 100 miles away. Murfreesboro could expect around $2.75 million in tax revenue for the city and Rutherford County.

In addition to big bucks, Buc-ee’s will also bring plenty of jobs. The store is expected to create over 200 positions, many of which are high-paying and come with excellent benefits. Managers at Buc-ee's can make around $120,000 per year. Wright, a Buc-ee’s spokesperson, added with a bit of humor, “I’m excited for this project to get on the road and I’m hoping I don’t gain 500 pounds eating Buc-ee’s brisket every day!”

As this will be the third Buc-ee's in Tennessee, it's clear the state's love for the beaver brand is growing. My wife and I are planning to visit both the Crossville and Sevierville Buc-ee’s during Thanksgiving week, along with a stop at the Calhoun, GA store. Three Buc-ee’s in one day—sounds like a perfect Thanksgiving adventure to me!

Stay tuned to Food and Flame for updates on all things Buc-ee’s!

Discovering Buc-ee's at Beach Express: A Culinary Journey in Robertsdale, Alabama

Our recent stop at the Buc-ee's located at Beach Express in Robertsdale, Alabama, was nothing short of extraordinary. This visit reaffirmed why Buc-ee's holds such a special place in our hearts, combining outstanding food, exceptional service, and a welcoming environment that makes each visit feel like a mini adventure.

As BBQ enthusiasts, we knew we were in for a treat when we arrived at Beach Express. I kicked off my meal with a Sliced Brisket Sandwich, a true masterpiece of smoky, tender brisket layered between soft, fresh bread. Each bite was a perfect balance of flavors, making it clear why Buc-ee’s brisket is so beloved. To complement my sandwich, I indulged in the crunchy, perfectly seasoned Beaver Chips and followed it up with a Fried Apple Pie—a sweet and crispy dessert that hit the spot.

But the highlight of the meal was the baked potato salad. This creamy, rich side dish paired wonderfully with the BBQ sandwich, offering a satisfying contrast to the smoky meat. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s a must on your next visit. I also sampled the mustard potato salad, which added a tangy twist to the meal. And because you can never have too much Buc-ee’s BBQ, I picked up a 3 Meat Sandwich for later, which I knew wouldn’t last long once I got home.

My wife enjoyed a Pulled Pork Sandwich that she found absolutely delicious, with tender pork and just the right amount of sauce. To balance out the savory flavors, she opted for a Watermelon Cup, a refreshing choice that provided a perfect contrast to the hearty sandwich. And, of course, we couldn’t leave without picking up some fudge—a sweet treat that never fails to satisfy.

While the food was the star of the show, the service at Beach Express was equally impressive. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit memorable. Mari was especially helpful, assisting a customer with his purchase of a Buc-ee's chair and matching umbrella—a great example of the friendly and attentive service that Buc-ee's is known for. Brittany and Carla made sure we didn’t leave without our location refrigerator magnet, a staple in our growing collection. Ray was also fantastic, ensuring I looked my best in my photo with Buc-ee himself, while Monica provided great assistance as I selected gifts.

Buc-ee's at Beach Express stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Robertsdale, Alabama. The combination of top-quality food, impeccable service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect stop, whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or spending some time exploring the store. The baked potato salad alone is worth the trip, especially when paired with one of their legendary BBQ sandwiches.

If you’re planning a visit to the Gulf Coast or just passing through, make sure to add the Beach Express Buc-ee's to your itinerary. With its amazing food offerings and friendly staff, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!