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
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'.