A Buc-ee’s Kind of Day in Leeds, Alabama

On April 12th, Karla and I made our way back to one of our favorite places on the map — the Buc-ee’s in Leeds, Alabama — and let me tell you, it was another visit packed with friendly faces, delicious eats, and that unbeatable Buc-ee’s energy.

From the moment we stepped through those automatic doors, the Buc-ee’s team made us feel right at home. We had the absolute pleasure of catching up with Michele in Bookkeeping, who remembered us and welcomed us with the kind of enthusiasm that just warms your heart. We’re already looking forward to seeing her again on May 17th, our next planned visit! Sarah, also from Bookkeeping, chatted with us about the adorable Easter Buc-ee plushie, which we finally got our hands on this time around (and yes, we added the Dancin’ Buc-ee, a color-changing tumbler, and the 2025 Tour T-shirt to our haul — how could we not?).

Catherine, our cashier, was super friendly and efficient, and Misty, working over in salads and sandwiches, made sure everything was fresh and ready. A big thanks as well to Phil in Merchandising for being so helpful. And a special shoutout to Matthew, who shared some updates on the upcoming Brunswick, Georgia location. We are beyond excited for that opening — it’ll be our first grand opening visit, and we’re hoping to meet Arch "Beaver" Aplin III and Randy Pauly there. (If y’all are reading this, we’ll have our Texas Monthly issue in hand, ready for signatures!)

Of course, no visit to Buc-ee’s is complete without food. For breakfast, I went big with the Beast Burrito, washed it down with Texas Squeeze orange juice, and followed it up with a hot cup of House Blend Buc-ee’s coffee — strong, smooth, and full of flavor. I’d love to see a decaf version of the Buc-ee’s K-Cups in the future. It’d be perfect for winding down after a long drive. (You know I’d be first in line!)

Later, when I couldn’t decide on a BBQ meat... I didn’t. I went for the 3-Meat BBQ Sandwich and paired it with a bag of Buc-ee’s Kettle Cooked Jalapeño Chips — spicy, crunchy, and absolutely addictive. Karla opted for the fresh Cobb salad, which hit the spot and kept her coming back for more.

Now, I’d be lying if I said we didn’t leave with a tiny bit of regret. We completely forgot to grab my new favorite — the Loaded Potato Salad — and a large Banana Pudding Cup. You better believe we’ll be scooping those up on May 17th.

Every time we visit a Buc-ee’s, we’re reminded that it’s not just about gas or snacks — it’s about the people, the pride, and the spirit of the open road. Leeds, Alabama, showed us all of that and more.

So, if you see us in the store next time — bolo tie, cowboy hat, and Buc-ee’s gear in full force — don’t be shy! Come say howdy. And if you’re planning to be in Brunswick, GA for the grand opening, let’s make it a party.

Until then — keep snackin’, keep smilin’, and as always…
Stay mighty, Buc-a-roos.
— Jesse (SnackinBuckaroo)

A Warm Welcome at Buc-ee’s Leeds: Our Fourth Visit & Another Memorable Experience

Our Buc-ee’s adventures took us back to familiar territory this past weekend—the Buc-ee’s in Leeds, Alabama! On Sunday, March 16, 2025, Karla and I made our fourth visit to this location, and as always, Buc-ee’s delivered a fantastic experience. From the welcoming staff to the incredible food, Leeds once again proved why every stop at Buc-ee’s is more than just a visit—it’s an event!

A Buc-ee’s Breakfast Fit for a Buckaroo
We kicked off our morning with some Buc-ee’s breakfast favorites.

Karla went for something light and refreshing—fresh cantaloupe, the perfect start to the day. I, on the other hand, took a heartier approach with the Super Sausage Taco. It was packed with flavor, a great balance of eggs, sausage, cheese, and, of course, that signature Buc-ee’s quality.

Lunch with Buc-ee’s Signature Staples
By lunchtime, we were ready for another round of Buc-ee’s goodness. Karla went with one of her favorites, the Chicken Salad Sandwich, which never disappoints with its creamy texture and delicious flavor. I, of course, had to indulge in my go-to classic—the Sliced Brisket Sandwich. The smoky, tender brisket was exactly what I expected: absolute perfection. Paired with a side of Baked Potato Salad, it made for a lunch that hit all the right notes.

Standout Buc-ee’s Team Members
One of the things that makes Buc-ee’s special isn’t just the food or the size of the store—it’s the people. The Leeds team truly made us feel at home, and we want to give a special shoutout to a few standout employees:

• Chris (Bakery) – Incredibly friendly and helpful, making sure we had a top-notch experience in the bakery section.
• Catherine (Cashier) – So wonderful and welcoming that we went through her line three times that day!
• Darren – His dedication to keeping the store spotless was evident, ensuring that Leeds upheld the high Buc-ee’s standard we all know and love.

The Buc-ee’s Easter Plush: The One That Got Away
One of the main reasons we made the trip was to pick up the Buc-ee’s Easter Plush. Unfortunately, when we got there, they were completely sold out. Matthew, the general manager, went above and beyond to check the warehouse for us, but there were none left. While we were a little heartbroken to miss out, we truly appreciated the extra effort from Matthew and the team in trying to track one down.

Looking Ahead: The Grand Opening of Buc-ee’s Brunswick, GA

We’re already counting down the days to our next big Buc-ee’s event—the grand opening of Buc-ee’s Brunswick, GA later this year! From everything we’ve heard, the big day is set for August 2025, and we can’t wait to be there. We’re especially looking forward to the chance to meet Arch "Beaver" Aplin III and Randy Pauly in person to celebrate another incredible Buc-ee’s milestone.

Until Next Time, Buc-ee’s Leeds!
Our visit to Leeds was another reminder of why Buc-ee’s is the ultimate Traveler’s Oasis. From the incredible food to the outstanding customer service, it’s always worth the stop. If you find yourself near Leeds, be sure to drop by and say hello to the amazing team—and maybe grab a brisket sandwich while you’re at it!

Until our next Buc-ee’s adventure… happy travels and happy snacking!

Loving Leeds: Our Third Visit to Buc-ee’s Leeds, Alabama

Karla and I always say that Buc-ee’s is more than a store—it’s a family. Nowhere is that more evident than at the Leeds, Alabama Buc-ee’s, where every visit feels like coming home. On our third trip to this fantastic location, we spent time with some of our favorite Buc-ee’s team members and left with even more reasons to love this stop along I-20.

A Warm Welcome from Familiar Faces
We were thrilled to catch up with our favorite General Manager, Matthew, whose leadership and passion for Buc-ee’s always shine through. Matthew runs a tight ship, but more importantly, he creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes travelers and regulars like us feel special. We also got to meet our new friend, Tony, the Assistant General Manager. Tony is fantastic—friendly, attentive, and clearly committed to making Leeds a standout location.

Incredible Team Members Make the Difference
Of course, a Buc-ee’s visit wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the magic of the hardworking team. We had a wonderful time visiting with Chinal at the Tortilla Station, where the fresh-made tortillas are an absolute must-try. Chinal brings joy to the kitchen, and you can taste it in every bite of those delicious tacos and burritos.

Over in merchandising, we met Caleb, who was doing a heck of a great job keeping everything perfect for travelers seeking out sandwiches, fudge, candied nuts, and a host of other goodies. From perfectly organized displays to well-stocked shelves, Caleb's efforts ensure every guest has the ultimate Buc-ee’s experience.

Why We Love Leeds
This visit reminded us why Leeds holds a special place in our hearts. The store itself is huge and immaculate, filled with the signature Buc-ee’s charm, but it’s the people who make it truly shine. From the warm greetings to the dedication behind the scenes, Leeds is everything we love about Buc-ee’s wrapped into one fantastic location.

Planning Our Next Visit—Easter is Calling!
We’re already counting down to our next visit in March, when we’ll be back to pick up the Easter Buc-ee plushie (because every holiday needs a little Buc-ee’s spirit!). You can bet we’ll be stopping to say hello to Matthew, Tony, Chinal, and Caleb, and of course, loading up on our favorite snacks for the road.

Final Thoughts
If you’ve never been to the Leeds, Alabama Buc-ee’s, it’s time to fix that! Whether you’re grabbing a brisket sandwich, snapping up some fresh fudge, or just enjoying the friendliest service you’ll ever find on the highway, Leeds delivers the Buc-ee’s magic.
And if you happen to see us there, don’t be shy—say hello! We’ll be the ones in Buc-ee’s gear, with brisket sandwiches in hand and smiles on our faces.

Until next time, happy travels and BUC-EE’S FOREVER!

Buc-ee’s to Break Ground on First Arkansas Location in Benton

Buc-ee’s is bringing its world-famous brisket sandwiches, Beaver Nuggets, and spotless restrooms to Arkansas! The beloved Texas-based travel center chain is set to break ground on its first-ever Arkansas location in Benton later this month.

Located on a 29-acre tract at the intersection of Interstate 30 and Highway 229—just under 30 miles from Little Rock—the Benton Buc-ee’s will be a major addition to the region. Groundbreaking for the site is scheduled for February 19.

The Benton store won’t just be Arkansas’ first Buc-ee’s—it will also be one of the chain’s largest. At over 75,000 square feet, it will tie with the Buc-ee’s in Luling, Texas, for the title of largest Buc-ee’s location. Travelers can expect more than 100 gas pumps and an impressive array of Buc-ee’s favorites, from fresh barbecue to homemade fudge. Plus, the store is expected to bring approximately 225 jobs to the Benton area.

While construction in Arkansas kicks off, Buc-ee’s is also working on an even bigger project in Florida. According to Southern Living, the new Buc-ee’s location in Ocala is expected to open later this year and will claim the title of largest Buc-ee’s in the world, boasting an incredible 80,000 square feet of space.

As Buc-ee’s expands its footprint across the South, it’s clear that more and more travelers are discovering what my wife, Karla, and I have known for years—Buc-ee’s is more than a gas station; it’s a destination. We can’t wait to add Benton, Arkansas, to our growing “Buc-ee’s List” and share the experience with fellow travelers.

Stay tuned for updates on the Benton store’s construction, and we’ll see you on the road—probably with a brisket sandwich in hand!

Buc-ee’s Eyes the Florida Panhandle for Its Fifth Location

Buc-ee’s, the legendary Texas-based travel center, is making moves to expand its footprint in Florida. Reports indicate that the company is in the early stages of the permitting process for a new location in the Tallahassee area, potentially bringing its world-famous brisket sandwiches, pristine restrooms, and endless rows of gas pumps to the Florida Panhandle.

Stan Beard, Buc-ee’s director of real estate and development, confirmed in an email that while there are still many hurdles to clear, Tallahassee and Leon County have been on the company’s radar for quite some time. “Tallahassee and Leon County have long been on our list of great communities to share the Buc-ee’s experience with,” Beard said. “We look forward to continued efforts with Leon County Planning and Leon County Leadership toward bringing a Buc-ee’s to the Florida Panhandle.”

Currently, Florida travelers can experience Buc-ee’s at just two locations—Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. My wife, Karla, and I have visited both, and they certainly lived up to the hype. It was a long but rewarding road trip where we hit three Buc-ee’s in one day, starting in Warner Robins, Georgia, before heading south to the Florida locations.

However, Buc-ee’s isn’t stopping there. The company has ambitious plans for Florida, including a massive store in Ocala, just east of I-75 near Highway 326. If completed, this location—spanning over 80,000 square feet and featuring more than 100 gas pumps—could take the title of the world’s largest Buc-ee’s, surpassing the Luling, Texas location that currently holds the crown. Additionally, a St. Lucie County location is in the works at the southeast corner of Indrio Road and Interstate 95.

A Buc-ee’s in Tallahassee would be a game-changer for travelers heading along I-10, offering a much-needed oasis of delicious food, clean restrooms, and Buc-ee’s famous snacks in the Panhandle. As always, Karla and I will be tracking this development closely and look forward to the day we can add this location to our ever-growing “Buc-ee’s List.”

Stay tuned for more updates as Buc-ee’s continues its expansion into Florida!

Buc-ee’s Breaks Ground in San Marcos, Texas – Opening Set for May 26, 2026

On a sunny Wednesday afternoon, January 29, Buc-ee’s founder Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, local officials, and the beloved Buc-ee himself broke ground on what promises to be another iconic travel center in San Marcos, Texas. Scheduled to open on May 26, 2026, this massive 74,000-square-foot location will welcome travelers just off Interstate 35 with Buc-ee’s signature world-class restrooms, Texas-sized snacks, and everything in between.

Speaking at the ceremony, Aplin expressed his excitement about expanding Buc-ee’s presence in the Lone Star State. “We’ve been building out of state a lot recently, but there’s nothing like coming home to Texas,” he shared with attendees. “We are excited to be on this side of the interstate with the southbound traffic, so we think that will be great.”

This new store will be located just 30 minutes from the existing New

Braunfels Buc-ee’s, which spans 66,000 square feet. With its increased size and prime location, the San Marcos Buc-ee’s is poised to become a must-stop destination for road trippers and Texas State University students alike — perfect for a late-night Beaver Nuggets run.

Coming Home to Texas
As proud Texans now living out of state, Karla and I are thrilled about Buc-ee’s continued growth back home. Buc-ee’s has always been a comforting reminder of Texas, and this new San Marcos location will be yet another reason to make the trip back to visit family (and, of course, more Buc-ee’s).

To Arch "Beaver" Aplin III — you keep building them, and we'll keep visiting them!

Potential Delay Looms for Buc-ee’s Brunswick, GA Location Due to Roundabout Construction

The much-anticipated Buc-ee’s location in Brunswick, Georgia, might face a delay in its grand opening due to construction plans at the Exit 42 interchange of Interstate 95. Glynn County Commission Chairman Walter Rafolski recently expressed concerns about the Georgia Department of Transportation's (GDOT) timeline for constructing roundabouts on both sides of Georgia 99 near the planned Buc-ee's site.

Initially, Buc-ee’s was on track to open its doors in April, but GDOT’s announcement of a summer construction start, with an expected completion date in August, has raised eyebrows. This timeline has caused uncertainty about whether the massive travel center can meet its original opening schedule.

Chairman Rafolski, along with Commissioner Wayne Neal, met with state DOT officials earlier this week to address the issue. According to Rafolski, the roundabout project, critical for handling the increased traffic expected from Buc-ee’s, has already been approved. However, the delay in breaking ground prompted county officials to push for a sense of urgency from GDOT.

A key point of discussion was the temporary closure of the Exit 42 interchange, required for seven days to allow substantial progress on the roundabouts before reopening to traffic. While this closure might be a short-term inconvenience for drivers, it’s an essential step in accommodating the projected influx of visitors once Buc-ee’s opens.
Despite these challenges, Rafolski remains optimistic. After his meeting with GDOT officials, he noted a newfound urgency in their approach and expressed hope that Buc-ee’s could still open its doors this spring.

For the Buc-ee’s faithful, this news comes with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. While the delay might be disappointing, the construction of roundabouts underscores the significant impact this location is expected to have on the area’s infrastructure and economy.

Stay tuned as we continue to track developments on the Buc-ee’s Brunswick location. Whether it’s April or later, the opening of Buc-ee’s will undoubtedly be worth the wait!

A Buc-ee's Experience to Remember: Florence, SC

Our journey to the Buc-ee's in Florence, South Carolina, marked another memorable stop in our quest to visit every Buc-ee's location. This traveler's oasis spans an impressive 53,000 square feet and boasts a staggering 120 fueling stations—more than enough to accommodate the busiest days on the road. From breakfast to dinner, every moment of our visit was packed with delightful flavors, impeccable service, and the unique Buc-ee's charm.

A Morning to Remember  
We began our day with a hearty breakfast. The fresh fruit cups,

including an assorted mix and a grape-only option, were the perfect healthy start. The brisket and egg breakfast taco, a true Buc-ee's classic, paired wonderfully with a steaming cup of their House Blend coffee—an absolute must, especially for early-morning drives. The coffee's rich, robust flavor kept us energized as we explored the massive store.

Lunch and Sweets Galore  

For lunch, we indulged in more of Buc-ee's famous brisket and a selection of sweets from their bakery. The variety of freshly baked goods is nothing short of impressive, and each bite reminded us why Buc-ee's is so much more than just a convenience store.

Dinner and Farewell  
As our visit wound down, we opted for lighter fare with salads and another round of fruit cups. Buc-ee's commitment to offering options for every taste and dietary preference never ceases to amaze us. Whether you're craving something indulgent or wholesome, Buc-ee's has you covered.

Exceptional Service  
The heart of this visit was the extraordinary service we received from the Buc-ee’s team. Several individuals stood out for going above and beyond:

• Shanda was a star! When we found the state magnets out of stock, she cheerfully went to the warehouse to retrieve them for us. Her positive attitude and willingness to help truly enhanced our experience.  
• Laura, a cashier, ensured all of our purchases were expertly packed, making our shopping seamless.  
• Passion, another cashier during our early morning visit, greeted us with a smile and wished us a safe trip back to Georgia. Her cheerfulness was infectious, even at the crack of dawn.  
• Margaret worked tirelessly in the soda section, keeping the area stocked with lids and straws despite the busy day. Her helpful and upbeat demeanor was greatly appreciated.

Our Buc-ee's Journey Continues  
Florence marks the 11th Buc-ee's location we've visited across five states, including our home state of Georgia. Each stop brings new memories and adds another magnet to our ever-growing collection. Speaking of magnets, we were thrilled to add both the state and yellow location magnets from Florence to our display.

Looking ahead, we are excited about upcoming adventures. In February, we plan to visit one of our favorite Buc-ee's locations in Leeds, Alabama. The Fourth of July weekend will take us to both Kentucky locations, and we’re eagerly anticipating the grand opening of the Brunswick, GA, store in June 2025.

Final Thoughts  
Buc-ee's in Florence, SC, delivered everything we've come to love

about this iconic destination: fantastic food, outstanding service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're fueling up for the road, grabbing a quick bite, or simply soaking in the Buc-ee’s experience, this location is a must-visit for anyone traveling through South Carolina.

We can’t wait to continue our Buc-ee’s journey and share more stories from the road. If you see us during one of our visits, don’t hesitate to say hello!

Buc-ee's Expansion in 2025 and Beyond: Exciting Openings Across the U.S.

Buc-ee's fans, rejoice! The iconic travel center known for its clean restrooms, delicious brisket sandwiches, and beaver-themed merchandise is spreading its magic far and wide. As we roll into 2025, several new locations are slated to open, bringing Buc-ee's unique charm to even more states. Here's a look at the upcoming openings, along with a glimpse into the future of Buc-ee's.

Mississippi: First Buc-ee’s Opens in Spring 2025
Mississippi is gearing up for its very first Buc-ee’s, opening in Harrison County on Menge Avenue. This massive 74,000+ square-foot location will provide everything Buc-ee's is famous for: incredible food options, spacious aisles of merchandise, and plenty of fuel pumps for weary travelers.

Virginia: First Location Opens July 4, 2025
Virginia will celebrate Independence Day with the grand opening of its first Buc-ee's in Rockingham County. Located off Exit 240 on I-81, this 74,000-square-foot store boasts 120 fuel stations, over 20 EV charging stations, and parking for 600 cars. A second Virginia location in New Kent County is planned for 2027.

 
Georgia: Brunswick Opening and a Future Monroe County Location

Karla and I are thrilled to attend the grand opening of Georgia's third Buc-ee's in Brunswick on June 2, 2025. Located at I-95 and State Highway 99, this store will feature 74,000 square feet and 120 gas pumps. Excitingly, plans are also in motion for a fourth Georgia location near Smarr, close to the Rumble Road exit of I-75. We’ll keep you posted on this development as details unfold. Arch, if you’re reading this, we’d love to see you there!

Tennessee: Murfreesboro Location
Tennessee's third Buc-ee’s, located 34 miles outside Nashville in Murfreesboro, is under construction. The 76,245-square-foot building will feature 120 fuel pumps, 490 parking spots, and accommodations for RVs and buses. Having already visited the Crossville and Sevierville locations, we can’t wait to add Murfreesboro to our list!

Florida: Ocala and Treasure Coast Expansion
Florida continues to shine in the Buc-ee’s universe. The upcoming Ocala location will set records as the world’s largest convenience store at over 80,000 square feet. Plans are also underway for a Treasure Coast location in St. Lucie County at Indrio Road and I-95. While opening dates are still unknown, we’ll share updates as soon as they’re available.

Karla and I are gearing up for what could be our most epic Buc-ee's

adventure yet! Depending on the opening dates of the new Florida locations, we’re planning to visit five Buc-ee’s in a single day! That’s right—our ambitious journey will take us from Warner Robins, GA, to St. Augustine, FL, Daytona Beach, FL, Ocala, FL, and finally to Fort Pierce, FL. The excitement is already building, and we absolutely can’t wait to reunite with our Buc-ee’s buddies in Daytona Beach during this incredible road trip. Stay tuned—this is going to be a day to remember!

North Carolina: Mebane by 2026/2027
North Carolina is eagerly awaiting its first Buc-ee’s in Mebane. Approved in January 2024, this location is expected to create 225 full-time jobs when it opens in late 2026 or early 2027, with potential for more jobs over time. This addition will undoubtedly enhance the state’s travel experience.

Ohio: Huber Heights in December 2025
After a brief construction delay, work has resumed on the Huber Heights, Ohio location, set to open by the end of 2025. Buckeyes, get ready to experience the ultimate convenience store!

Arizona: Goodyear in Late 2025
Buc-ee’s will make its debut in Arizona with a new store in Goodyear, opening at the end of 2025. Travelers in the Southwest are in for a treat!

Arkansas: Benton Location Coming Soon
Benton, Arkansas, will soon welcome the state’s first Buc-ee’s. Details are still emerging, but fans can expect all the Buc-ee’s staples that have won hearts across the country.

Buc-ee's: A National Phenomenon
As Buc-ee's continues to expand, it remains a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you're grabbing a brisket sandwich, hunting for Beaver Nuggets, or marveling at the immaculate restrooms, Buc-ee’s offers an experience like no other.

Karla and I are excited to continue our Buc-ee's journey in 2025. With stops planned in Brunswick, Murfreesboro, and beyond, our "Buc-ee's List" is growing. Stay tuned to foodandflame.com for updates, grand opening coverage, and behind-the-scenes insights. Let us know if we’ll see you on the road!

A Buckaroo’s Journey: Visiting Buc-ee’s Florence, SC

As our quest to visit every Buc-ee’s location continues, we’re thrilled to announce our next adventure! During the weekend of January 18-19, 2025, we’ll be heading to the bustling Buc-ee’s in Florence, South Carolina. Known as one of the busiest Buc-ee’s in the country, this location promises to be an exciting stop on our ever-growing “Buc-ee’s List.”  

The Travelers' Oasis in Florence  
Buc-ee’s Florence, which opened on May 16, 2022, marks the brand’s first foray into South Carolina. Situated at 3390 North Williston Road, this massive store spans over 55,000 square feet, offering everything from its world-famous Beaver Nuggets to fresh brisket sandwiches. With 120 fueling stations, it’s more than a gas station—it’s a Texas-born travelers’ oasis designed to serve adventurers, road warriors, and Buc-ee’s enthusiasts like us!  

10 Locations, 4 States, and Counting  
Over the past year, Karla and I have visited 10 Buc-ee’s locations across 4 states, and we’ve enjoyed every moment of this incredible journey. Some of these stops have become favorites that we just can’t resist revisiting. For example, we’ve visited the Calhoun, GA location five times—each trip offering something new to enjoy. The Leeds, AL and Warner Robins, GA locations have also drawn us back more than once, with two visits each.

  
These frequent stops are a testament to the unique charm and quality of Buc-ee’s. Whether it’s the amazing food, warm staff, or unbeatable selection, we find ourselves returning to experience it all again and again.  

Why We’re Excited  
This visit isn’t just another stop for us; it’s a chance to experience Buc-ee’s at one of its busiest locations. We’re eager to see how the Florence store lives up to its reputation for incredible service, unbeatable selection, and legendary food. We’ll also be looking for hidden gems in the store, such as the salsa and candied jalapeños that have become staples of our reviews.  

Sharing the Experience  
As always, we’ll don our Buckaroo outfits—red cowboy shirts, bolo

ties, and boots—and fully embrace the Buc-ee’s spirit. We can’t wait to take a picture with Buc-ee himself and connect with fellow fans. If you see us there, don’t hesitate to say hello!  

Follow Along  
We’ll be documenting our visit on **SnackinBuckaroo** (our TikTok handle) and posting updates and reviews of our finds. From new snacks to signature favorites, we’re here to share the joy of Buc-ee’s with everyone.  

Wrapping Up  
Florence’s Buc-ee’s is more than just a pit stop—it’s a destination that celebrates the spirit of travel, community, and exceptional service. We can’t wait to see what this location has to offer and to share our experience with all of you. Stay tuned for our post-visit recap, where we’ll dive into everything we loved about Buc-ee’s Florence!

Discovering Buc-ee’s Daytona Beach: A Beacon of Hospitality and Fun

Our Buc-ee’s journey through Florida continued with a memorable stop at the Daytona Beach location, and it was everything we hoped for—and more. Opened on March 22, 2021, this 50,000-square-foot mega-convenience store and gas station is a shining example of what makes Buc-ee’s a traveler’s oasis.  

Located at 2330 Gateway North Drive, right off the Interstate 95/LPGA Boulevard interchange, this Buc-ee’s features 104 gas pumps and one of the brand’s signature car washes. It’s a destination in itself, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite for locals and travelers alike.  

A Special Connection  
Buc-ee’s has always been more than a place to fuel up or grab snacks for Karla and me—it’s a place that feels like home. That’s why I make a point of writing to Arch “Beaver” Aplin, Buc-ee’s co-founder, after each visit. I want him to know just how much we love Buc-ee’s and to share the incredible experiences we’ve had along the way.

The Daytona Beach location was no exception. From the moment we arrived, we were met with the warm hospitality that has become synonymous with the Buc-ee’s brand.  

Delicious Food and More  
We enjoyed both dinner and breakfast at this location, and the food
was nothing short of exceptional. For dinner, I savored the cranberry pecan chicken salad sandwich, paired with Cajun Boil Kettle Chips and Jalapeño Kettle Chips, and topped it off with a decadent chocolate pudding. Karla opted for a sandwich and a fresh fruit cup, a light yet satisfying meal.

Breakfast the next morning was just as delightful. I started my day with a brisket taco, Beaver tots, and a Texas Squeeze Orange juice, along with a large Buc-ee’s House Blend coffee—medium roast and absolutely delicious. Karla enjoyed a grape cup and decaf coffee. There’s truly nothing better than starting your day with a Buc-ee’s breakfast!  

Exceptional Team Members  
What really made our visit to Daytona Beach stand out were the incredible people we met along the way.

• Kaylyn checked us out in the morning and went above and beyond to sort our food, ensuring hot items stayed hot and cold items stayed cold. Her warm conversation and attention to detail made us feel incredibly welcome.  
• Jaimison exemplified outstanding service by retrieving two yellow location magnets for me from the warehouse without hesitation. That’s what I call dedication!  
• Cheryl and Joan, who maintain the soda and coffee station, were amazing. Cheryl, a three-year veteran of the location, kept everything running smoothly and ensured guests were happy, while Joan’s friendly demeanor made everyone feel right at home.  
• Duane, the store manager, and Dawn, another manager, showed incredible professionalism and hospitality. Duane made us feel like we were back in Texas, while Dawn took time out of her busy schedule to wish us a Happy New Year.  
• Becky, working at the fudge station, was a delight to chat with, taking an interest in our Buc-ee’s adventures and our Buc-ee’s List.  
• John and Anthony, who work at the car wash, were professional and made sure we were satisfied with our car wash selection.  

Every team member went above and beyond to make our visit special, creating memories we’ll carry with us for a lifetime.  

Final Thoughts  
The Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s is more than just a convenience store—it’s a destination that captures the heart of everything we love about

Buc-ee’s. From the delicious food to the clean and welcoming environment, and especially the incredible staff, this location has earned a spot as one of our favorites.  

We can’t wait to return, and we’re already looking forward to sharing our next Buc-ee’s adventure with Arch Aplin, who continues to inspire us with his vision and dedication to creating these remarkable travel stops.  

If you haven’t visited Buc-ee’s in Daytona Beach yet, make it a priority on your next trip. Whether it’s fueling up, grabbing a bite, or simply enjoying the unparalleled hospitality, this location offers something for everyone. 

Exploring Buc-ee’s St. Augustine: A Florida Gem

Our journey through Florida wouldn’t have been complete without a stop at Buc-ee’s in St. Augustine, a true destination for travelers along I-95. Opened on February 22, 2021, this sprawling location boasts 104 fueling stations and a massive 55,000 square feet of shopping and dining delights. It’s a beacon for anyone seeking great food, clean restrooms, and a touch of home on the road.

As the first Buc-ee’s in Northeast Florida, the St. Augustine location has set the bar high for convenience store excellence. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by the hustle and bustle of New Year’s holiday travelers, yet the warmth and friendliness of the staff made us feel right at home.  

A Taste of Home  
Our two visits to Buc-ee’s St. Augustine were centered around

lighter lunches, as we’d indulged in hearty breakfasts earlier in the day. The fresh fruit cups and cold sandwiches were perfect for a quick, satisfying meal, and the desserts—especially the banana pudding—brought a comforting taste of home.  

Exceptional Staff  
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the amazing team members who made our experience unforgettable.  

• Brent, who has been with Buc-ee’s for seven months, ensured the men’s restroom remained impeccably clean despite the heavy holiday traffic. His dedication to his work and his positive attitude were inspiring. I had the pleasure of speaking with him, and it was clear how much he enjoys being part of the Buc-ee’s family.  
• Robert, the assistant store manager, took the time to make us feel welcome and even complimented my Buc-ee Beaver cap, adding a personal touch that made our visit extra special.

These interactions remind us why Buc-ee’s is more than just a convenience store—it’s a place where people truly care about their guests. 

Why St. Augustine Stands Out  
Beyond the incredible staff, the St. Augustine Buc-ee’s offers the same iconic features we’ve come to love: an impressive selection of snacks, fresh food, and merchandise. It’s a place where you can fuel up, grab a delicious meal, and pick up unique items to remember your trip.

For Karla and me, Buc-ee’s is more than a stop along the way; it’s part of our journey. Every visit leaves us with new memories and stories to share, and our time at St. Augustine was no exception.  

Final Thoughts  
If you’re traveling through Northeast Florida, make sure to add Buc-ee’s St. Augustine to your itinerary. Whether you’re fueling up for a long drive or simply exploring the area, this location offers everything you need and more. And if you’re lucky, you might just meet someone like Brent or Robert, who will remind you why Buc-ee’s is truly one of a kind.

 
We can’t wait to return and continue our Buc-ee’s adventures. For now, we carry with us the memories of a delightful visit to St. Augustine, a place that perfectly captures the spirit of Buc-ee’s.

Rumors Resurface: Is Buc-ee's Coming to Michigan?

The buzz about Buc-ee's coming to Michigan has reignited, sparking excitement among fans of the beloved Texas-based chain. Back in April, residents of West Michigan were abuzz after a billboard near Lowell teased a connection to Buc-ee's. However, the message on the billboard was more bittersweet than promising, reminding Michiganders that the nearest Buc-ee's is a daunting 444 miles away, in Richmond, Kentucky.

While Michigan remains without a Buc-ee's, there’s reason to hope. The company’s co-founders, Arch "Beaver" Aplin III and Don Wasek, have been steadily expanding northward. Their strategy has brought the "travelers' oasis" to states like Kentucky and Tennessee, signaling their ambition to bring Buc-ee's charm beyond its Southern roots. 

Could Michigan be next? For now, it's all speculation. However, the enthusiasm for Buc-ee's in the Mitten State is clear, and the demand for Beaver Nuggets, brisket sandwiches, and spotless restrooms might just pave the way for future expansion. 

Stay tuned to foodandflame.com for updates on this story as we continue to track Buc-ee’s journey across the map. Could a Michigan Buc-ee’s be on the horizon? Only time will tell!