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 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!

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.

A Merry Buc-ee’s Christmas Adventure: Warner Robins, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach & La Quinta

This Christmas, Karla and I are embarking on a festive Buc-ee’s road trip that combines our love for Buc-ee’s with our dedication to Wyndham Hotels, particularly our favorite, La Quinta Inns & Suites. This year’s trip is extra special because we’re tackling the ambitious goal of visiting three Buc-ee’s locations in one day*—breakfast at Warner Robins, Georgia, lunch at St. Augustine, Florida, and dinner at Daytona Beach, Florida.  

Adding to the excitement, we’ll end our day by staying at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Port Orange / Daytona, located just 11 miles south of the Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s, right off I-95 S. As loyal members of the Wyndham Rewards program, we can’t wait to enjoy the comfort and hospitality that make La Quinta feel like a home away from home.  

Breakfast at Buc-ee’s: Warner Robins, Georgia

Our day begins bright and early at the Warner Robins Buc-ee’s, where we’ll fuel up with a delicious breakfast. For me, it’s all about the brisket breakfast taco paired with Buc-ee’s 5-Fire Roasted Pepper salsa, while Karla loves their buttery kolaches. Warner Robins is a favorite stop on our Buc-ee’s List and always sets the tone for an amazing day.  

Lunch Stop: St. Augustine, Florida  

By midday, we’ll arrive at the St. Augustine Buc-ee’s for lunch. This location, with its historic charm, is perfect for indulging in Buc-ee’s world-famous brisket sandwiches and exploring their seasonal holiday merchandise. Whether it’s picking up snacks for the road or finding unique gifts, St. Augustine always has something special to offer.  

Dinner on the Coast: Daytona Beach, Florida  

As the sun sets, we’ll reach the Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s for dinner. Pulled pork sandwiches, freshly prepared sides, and maybe a slice of their fudge will make for the perfect meal to cap off an incredible day. This coastal Buc-ee’s is always buzzing with energy, and we’re excited to see how they’ve embraced the holiday spirit.  

A Relaxing Stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Port Orange / Daytona  

After our Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s adventure, we’ll head just 11 miles south on I-95 S to check in at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Port Orange / Daytona. This hotel has everything we need after a long day of traveling: spacious rooms, a cozy bed, and exceptional service that makes every stay memorable.  

As frequent travelers and Wyndham Rewards members, we’ve come to trust La Quinta for its consistency and comfort. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge for the next day, when we’ll revisit the Buc-ee’s locations we explored the day before. The proximity of the Port Orange La Quinta to the Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s makes it an ideal base for this trip.  

Revisiting Our Favorites  

One of the unique aspects of our Buc-ee’s adventures is that we love to revisit the stores we’ve just seen. The morning after this epic day, we’ll return to Warner Robins, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach Buc-ee’s for another round of snacks, souvenirs, and fun. Every visit offers something new to discover, and we’re always excited to dive back in.  

Three Buc-ee’s, One La Quinta: The Perfect Holiday Combo  

This Christmas road trip is about more than just checking locations off our Buc-ee’s List—it’s about the joy of the journey. With the convenience and comfort of La Quinta Inns & Suites as our home base and the incredible experience of visiting three Buc-ee’s in one day, this adventure is a testament to how much we love travel, food, and making memories together.  

If you’re planning a trip through Georgia and Florida this holiday season, we highly recommend pairing your Buc-ee’s stops with a stay at a Wyndham property like La Quinta Port Orange / Daytona. Their dedication to quality and service makes every trip feel special, and as Buc-ee’s fans, we couldn’t ask for a better partner in travel.  

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and happy travels!  

Jesse & Karla 

The Snackinbuckaroo Team

https://www.tiktok.com/@snackinbuckaroo

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?).

Authentic Indian Cooking Class - Flavors from the Beaches of Goa (Seafood) - Miami, Florida

Sunday, April 28, 2013 from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Miami, Florida

Ayesha's Kitchen, Inc.
9105 SW 115th Terrace
Miami, Florida 33176
305-254-0693

Cost: $75.00


If you are looking for a unique and delicious Indian cooking experience, then Ayesha's Kitchen is the go-to place. If Indian food intrigues you or you want to cook Indian food for the first time, here is your chance to learn to cook it yourself. Be adventurous and explore the delicious flavors of India. You only need to bring your enthusiasm and a healthy appetite for an experience of fun.

Come join Ayesha D’Mello for an exclusive privately held Indian Culinary experience. Ayesha’s classes and recipes reflect her philosophy to cook quick, easy, delicious and healthy Indian meals crafted with locally available Indian spices and herbs whilst highlighting the natural and health benefits. These classes are designed to get you started and beyond. Her culinary delights of India spans the geographical map of the vast country, from vegetarian to non-vegetarian dishes to seafood to authentic street fare to All About Indian Breads and delicious Indian desserts.

What a great way to travel to India without leaving the kitchen!

Click here for details.

Rosen Centre Vine & Dine Inspired by the Pacific Northwest - Orlando, Florida

Friday, April 26, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM

Orlando, Florida

Everglades Restaurant at Rosen Centre
9840 International Drive
Orlando, Florida 32819
407-996-8560

Cost: The cost of each Vine & Dine dinner is $75 per person, plus tax and 20 percent gratuity. Complimentary valet parking.


Food and wine that capture the fusion of free-spirited nature with the stylish sophistication of the Pacific Northwest are the inspiration behind a tasty trip along the Oregon Trail. Everglades Head Chef Fred Vlachos will create a unique, five-course “Oregon’s Town & Country Affair” inspired by the scenic Dundee Hills wine country of the Beaver State and the contemporary style that defines its most populous city, Portland. Each course will be paired with wines that include famous Pinot Gris and Pinot Noirs from the best of Oregon’s 300 or so wineries.

RSVP required.  Call 407-996-8560.

Click here for details.

My Big Fat Greek Dinner! Cooking Demo Dinner with Chef Lenore Pinello - Tequesta, Florida

Thursday, April 25, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Tequesta, Florida

In The Kitchen
Gallery Square North, 389 Tequesta Drive
Tequesta, Florida 33469
561-747-7117

Cost: $75

Learn to prepare Mediterranean-Style Stuffed Focaccia, Greek Salad with Hummus, Grilled Sword Fish Kabobs with Spanikopita & Lemony Orzo and Baklava Sundae while enjoying an entertaining dinner with friends and fellow foodies.  Take recipes home for all of the dishes.  Bring your favorite wines or beverage to enjoy with your dinner.  Reservations required.

Click here for details.

Soups & Stews - North Miami, Florida

Tuesday, April 9, 2013 from 4:45 PM - 7:00 PM

North Miami, Florida

FIU - Biscayne Bay Campus
3000 NE 151st Street
North Miami, Florida 33181
305-919-4138

Cost: 29.00

Learn the basics of comfort food cooking with a twist! In this introductory cooking class, students will be introduced to the foundations of cooking for contemporary cuisine.We will make a classic Thai soup, take retro favorites gourmet and > prepare a one-dish stew that's perfect for entertaining!

Click here for details.

Adonal Foyle's KLF Gala Dinner & Caribbean Fete - Orlando, Florida

Tuesday, April 9, 2013 from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM

Orlando, Florida

Orange County Regional History Center - Downtown Orlando
65 E. Central Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32801
925-699-9754

Cost: $175 per person; $325 per couple; $1280 per table of 8 (tables of 10 also available).


Please join your host Adonal Foyle for his Kerosene Lamp Foundation's 4th Annual Gala Dinner & Caribbean Fete. This year marks a decade of KLF youth programs and what better place to celebrate our momentous milestone than the History Center in downtown Orlando!

The event will feature:
Celebrity Emcee (past emcees include David Pingalore of Local 6 News and Dante Marchitelli)
Presentation of the Beacon of Excellence Award (previous recipients include Magic's JJ Redick & Chris Duhon)
Live & Silent Auction
Hosted cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres
Gourmet three-course meal & wine
Caribbean-themed entertainment
Celebrity guests (past attendees include Dwight Howard, JJ Redick, Bo Outlaw, Chris Leak & more)
Tickets must be purchased in advance - get them early before they sell out! Visit www.KLFevents.com for more details and to order tickets.

For sponsorship information, contact Shiyana Valentine at 925-699-9754 or svalentine@KeroseneLampFoundation.org.

Click here for details.