Buc-ee's: Have You Been There?
I recently had the opportunity to visit a Buc-ee's gas station, although I'm not sure that's the proper term. It was in Texas, and the old adage, "Everything's bigger in Texas!" certainly applies. The establishment was as big as a large grocery store but had more things and a huge variety of items you wouldn't expect in a gas station.
Of course, it had all the items you'd consider necessary as a weary, hungry, thirsty traveler in need of a bathroom. Aisles of sweet and salty snacks, cold cases full of any kind of drink you could think of, and a food bar with fresh brisket barbecue sandwiches, homemade peach cobbler, and banana pudding. An aisle dedicated to aiding you in any type of health situation on the road. The requisite sweet and unsweet iced tea were freshly made and came in one size: extra-large!
The bathrooms were the nicest I've seen in a travel stop, individual stalls without the gaps above/below the divider wall, sparkling clean and plenty of soap and paper towels as well as a place to change infants. Did I mention clean? It was impressive especially with the amount of people in and out.
They had a large section dedicated to barbecuing equipment and another for great quality toys. Breyer horses were a favorite of mine as a young girl, and they had an impressive collection along with stuffies, puzzles, books, and cars. Camping equipment, coolers, Stanley tumblers, flannel, western apparel, collegiate jerseys, and lush bath products rounded out the offerings, to name a few. Of course, Christmas items were displayed for sale, and I gave in and purchased flannel Christmas/Buc-ee's matching pj's for the littles. I almost bought a pair for myself! They will be adorable in the upcoming cousin Christmas photos.
I've had friends, especially those that live in the east, talk about Buc-ee's but never paid much attention because we don't have one near us. Now that I've been there, I see what all the fuss is about. My husband made an offhand remark about how it would be a quirky wedding destination. Plenty of parking, good food, and a festive atmosphere. I looked it up and, yes, couples have chosen Buc-ee's as their wedding venue! Couples in Tennessee and Texas have tied the knot with the mascot as their witness. They obtained permission directly from the manager and kept the ceremony brief and the guest list small (usually, the bride, the groom the officiant, and a photographer.) It sounds fun, but I'm going to stick with my great impressions of their clean bathrooms, terrific snacks, and the ability to stretch my car-weary legs while browsing long aisles filled with possible Christmas gifts.
Have you been to Buc-ee's? What was your favorite thing about the experience? Share in the comments or on my socials.
I have not been there- yet. But will now make certain it is a planned stop!