Buc-ee’s Leeds, Alabama — Our Home Away from Home

On Saturday, July 19, 2025, just days after the grand opening of the Brunswick, GA store, Karla and I found ourselves back at one of our favorite Buc-ee’s stops — Leeds, Alabama. While we may visit Leeds every month, each trip feels like coming home to family. This store holds a special place in our hearts, and this visit was no different.

Sharing Stories and Smiles
We were eager to share our Brunswick adventure, complete with photos, with Windy and Matthew, the general manager at Leeds. Their smiles and excitement made us feel like we were reliving that grand opening all over again. Matthew and his team run a store they can truly be proud of — spotless, friendly, and filled with the kind of hospitality that makes Buc-ee’s famous.

A Breakfast Tradition
No visit to Leeds is complete without my traditional Buc-ee’s

breakfast, and this one hit all the right notes:

• Brisket taco — smoky, savory, and generously packed
• Beaver tots — perfectly fried, perfectly salted
• Buc-ee’s House Blend coffee — rich, hot, and deeply satisfying
• Texas Squeeze orange juice — my favorite way to toast the morning

It’s the kind of breakfast that doesn’t just fill you up — it fuels your day.

Taking a Taste of Buc-ee’s Home
Before heading out, we made sure dinner was taken care of Buc-ee’s style:

• Sliced brisket — tender, juicy, and packed with flavor
• Loaded potato salad — creamy, hearty, and full of bite
• Coconut cream pudding — the sweet finish every BBQ meal deserves
• Half-pound of dried peppered beef from the jerky bar — my go-to road trip snack

That’s the beauty of Buc-ee’s: you can have a legendary meal right there or take it with you and make the magic last a little longer.

The Warmest Hugs in the Buc-ee’s Family

We’ve met incredible people at every Buc-ee’s we’ve visited, but Leeds holds the crown for the biggest and best hugs. It’s more than customer service — it’s genuine friendship. Walking into Leeds feels less like stepping into a convenience store and more like dropping by to visit old friends.

Buc-ee’s Leeds will always be a touchstone for us. It’s where road trips begin, where stories are shared, and where Texas hospitality is alive and well in the heart of Alabama.

Keep snackin’. Keep smilin’. Keep travelin’.

Brunswick, Georgia Buc-ee’s Grand Opening — A Taste of Texas on the Georgia Coast

July 1, 2025 marked a milestone for Buc-ee’s fans across the Southeast — the grand opening of the brand-new Brunswick, Georgia Buc-ee’s! Karla and I made the trip to be part of the celebration, and what a day it turned out to be.

The air was filled with excitement (and the mouthwatering aroma of BBQ) as guests poured in to explore the massive new store. From the moment we stepped through the doors, we were greeted by that unmistakable Buc-ee’s blend of energy, friendliness, and Texas pride.

Meeting Buc-ee’s Legends

One of the biggest highlights of the day was meeting Arch Aplin III, the founder of Buc-ee’s. We had been looking forward to this for years, and the moment didn’t disappoint. Arch graciously signed my treasured March 2019 issue of Texas Monthly and posed for a photo with us — courtesy of our new friend Randy Pauly, Director of BBQ, who, by the way, takes a fantastic selfie. Arch’s daughter, Katherine, also signed our copy of Buc-ee Goes to School, instantly turning it into a family heirloom.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Randy Pauly himself — the legend of BBQ — and Jim Mills, Director of Culinary Services. Randy’s warm personality and quick humor matched his reputation, and Jim and I had a wonderful conversation about Buc-ee’s food philosophy, the bakery, and the art of the perfect jerky recommendation.

The People Who Make Buc-ee’s Special
Buc-ee’s is famous for its spotless stores, delicious food, and endless merchandise, but it’s the people who truly make the experience. On opening day in Brunswick, we met:

• Alicia & Serena — friendly and efficient at the registers
• Haley, Becky, & Karen — merchandising pros who keep the shelves stocked and inviting
• Michael & Jess G — jerky bar experts who know their flavors inside and out
• Rhonda, Tara, & Maria — baking up fresh, irresistible treats
• Charlotte — serving up fudge that could melt anyone’s resolve
• Kelly — keeping the coffee flowing for early-morning and road-weary guests

Every single one of them radiated the kind of hospitality that turns a simple store visit into a memory.

Food Highlights — and a Bakery Favorite
If you know us, you know we never leave Buc-ee’s without sampling something delicious. Brunswick delivered in spades — from smoky, tender BBQ to the addictive treats at the bakery. Karla fell head over heels for the blueberry scones — soft, buttery, and bursting with fruit. Add in fresh fudge, a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, and a jerky bar that could convert even the pickiest eater, and you’ve got a recipe for pure happiness.

Buc-ee’s: More Than a Pit Stop
As we told Arch that day, Buc-ee’s is more than just a road trip stop for us. It’s a taste of Texas — a reminder of home that we carry with us wherever we go. Every location we visit feels like a small reunion with the Lone Star State, and Brunswick was no exception.

We left that day with our arms full of goodies, our hearts full of joy, and our travel plans already pointing toward the next Buc-ee’s adventure — Mississippi, Virginia, and Amarillo are all on our radar.

Until then, Brunswick will hold a special place in our Buc-ee’s story — the day we met legends, made friends, and experienced Texas hospitality deep in the heart of Georgia.

Keep snackin'. Keep smilin'. Keep travelin'.

Snackin’ Through Leeds: Our Flavor-Filled Visit to Buc-ee’s in Alabama

Every Buc-ee’s visit is an experience, but our latest stop at the Leeds, Alabama location turned into a full-blown snack adventure. While Buc-ee’s is always known for its wide selection of travel treats and Texas-sized hospitality, this visit introduced us to a crunchy lineup we couldn’t resist—Buc-ee’s Potato Sticks in four bold flavors!

We snagged:

• Original – Classic, salty, and satisfyingly crispy. The baseline snack that delivers every time.
• Jalapeño – A spicy kick with just the right amount of heat. A must for fans of bold flavors.
• Cajun Boil – Packed with Southern spices, this one’s a flavor-packed journey to the bayou.
• Cheddar Sour Cream – Tangy, cheesy goodness that’s dangerously addictive.

These new snack sticks are the bomb—perfect for road trips, movie nights, or just munching while you reminisce about your last Buc-ee’s run.

Sadly, the Dill Pickle flavor was out of stock during our visit—clearly a popular choice—but we’ll be on the lookout next time. My wife especially loved the Cheddar Sour Cream flavor and gave a big thumbs up to the Wavy Chips in Cheddar Sour Cream as well. Looks like we’ll need a snack drawer just for Buc-ee’s treats soon!

While we came for the snacks, we stayed for the smiles. As always, the Leeds team was welcoming, the store was spotless, and the atmosphere was buzzing with travelers and Buc-ee’s fans from near and far. There’s something about this location—maybe it’s the Alabama charm or just the unmistakable Buc-ee’s magic—that makes every visit memorable.

We’ll definitely be back. And hopefully next time, that Dill Pickle flavor will be waiting for us.

Have you tried the new Buc-ee’s Potato Sticks yet? Let us know your favorite flavor in the comments below—and don’t forget to follow our Buc-ee’s adventures at foodandflame.com.

Until next time—stay crunchy, my fellow buckaroos!

Buc-ee’s Bluegrass Run – Kentucky Adventure

Date of Visit: May 24–25, 2025 | Locations: Buc-ee’s – Calhoun, GA • Richmond, KY • Smiths Grove, KY

Our Memorial Day weekend road trip took us on an exciting Buc-ee’s run through Georgia and Kentucky, and let’s just say — the beaver did not disappoint!

We kicked things off with a familiar stop at the Calhoun, GA location for breakfast. It was great seeing some of our Buc-ee’s family again:

• Tracy greeted us with her signature warm smile,
• Becca from the bakery was just as friendly as ever, and
• Leah, our cashier, checked us out with a cheerful attitude.

We even ran into Windy, who remembered us from a previous visit — what a great way to start our trip! Breakfast was classic: a brisket taco, Texas Squeeze orange juice, and our must-have House Blend coffee.

Next stop: Richmond, KY. This was our first time at this location, and we were thrilled. The store is clean, well-organized, and full of energy. A big shoutout to Zach, our cashier, who made checkout a breeze. The staff here really embody the Buc-ee’s hospitality we’ve come to love.

Finally, we made it to Smiths Grove, KY — another gem in the Buc-ee’s crown.

• Pam, who was working merchandise and chips, was incredibly friendly and helpful.
• Colton, our cashier, rounded out the visit with great service.

Each stop reminded us just how consistent Buc-ee’s is in its commitment to clean restrooms, amazing food, and the friendliest people on the road. We left Kentucky full, happy, and already planning our return.

Up next: a return to Leeds in June, and the grand opening of the Brunswick, GA store on July 1, 2025. We’re especially looking forward to that one — we hope to meet Arch Aplin and Randy Pauly in person and have them sign our beloved copy of Texas Monthly. 

This journey has become more than just visits — it’s a celebration of the culture, care, and community that Buc-ee’s brings to every traveler’s day.

Until next time — keep on snackin’, buckaroos!

Rain or Shine, Leeds Always Delivers

Date of Visit: May 17, 2025 | Location: Buc-ee’s – Leeds, AL

Our sixth visit to the Buc-ee’s in Leeds, Alabama, might have come with a downpour, but nothing could dampen our Buc-ee’s spirit. Even in the middle of a spring storm, this location continues to be one of our favorite stops.

We started our morning with a brisket taco topped with salsa verde, a generous helping of Beaver tots, a Texas Squeeze orange juice, and, of course, the always-reliable House Blend Buc-ee’s coffee. Breakfast in Buc-ee’s is a ritual for us — and it's never boring.

Later in the day, we shared some fresh-cut watermelon — a simple but refreshing lunch that really hit the spot. The fruit selection at Leeds never disappoints! For dinner, we split a hearty 3 Meat BBQ sandwich, and rounded it out with a loaded baked potato salad and banana pudding. Karla opted for one of her personal favorites: the chicken salad croissant sandwich, light, creamy, and perfectly satisfying.

We also had a chance to try some new items and were blown away. The Cheddar Sour Cream Wavy Chips are dangerously good, and the Spicy Pickled Brussels Sprouts have a kick we didn’t expect but absolutely loved. For dessert, the Cookie Bites were crunchy, sweet perfection.

As always, the heart of the visit was the people.

• Monica, our breakfast cashier, greeted us warmly as soon as we walked in.
• Windy recognized us from previous visits and lit up with joy when she saw us — it truly made our day.
• Darren was working hard to keep the floors safe from the rain, never missing a beat.
• And Michele, one of the kindest people you’ll meet, gave us a big hug when she saw us again. That kind of warmth is what makes Buc-ee’s more than just a stop — it’s a home on the road.

We're already planning our next Leeds visit in June, and we can’t wait to see familiar faces and try more Buc-ee’s favorites. Rain or shine, this location always leaves us smiling.

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!