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If you are traveling through Texas, you will eventually run across a Buc-ee’s Travel Center. As a matter of fact, you have probably already seen the billboard that says, ” Buc-ee’s just ahead. Only 215 more miles. You can hold it.” Buc-ee’s is well known for sparkling clean restrooms, unique snacks, and plenty of room for you RV. There is a tradition amongst RVers and Buc-ee’s. When you get a new RV or camper, you post a picture in front of a Buc-ee’s Travel Center.
Where we live there are actually 2 Buc-ee’s. One on each end of town. This is surprising because our own is home to only around 3,000 people. And yes, we did post a picture of our Kodiak in front of one of the stores. So the question still remains, what is so special about Buc-ee’s Travel Centers? Let’s take a look at some facts about this iconic travel stop to see what the rave is all about.
History Of Buc-ee’s Travel Center
The first Buc-ee’s was opened in 1982 in Lake Jackson, Texas. Their headquarters located there as well. The owner, Arch “Beaver” Aplin took out a loan for $250,000 to open his first store. I would say that was a great investment. Today there are 40 locations throughout Texas, Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. There are plans in place to build more in Kentucky, Tennessee, and South Carolina.
Buc-ee’s Travel Centers have never been a “truck stop”. In fact, they don’t allow 18 wheelers into the parking lots. Buc-ee’s is well known for having a great travel stop experience and they don’t want to take away from that with big rigs crowding the pumps.
Clean Restrooms
One of the most well known facts about Buc-ee’s is the cleanliness of their restrooms. In 2012, Cintas ran a “cleanest restroom in America” contest and Buc-ee’s Travel Centers came out on top. People have even reached out to the owner for the bathroom layout design so they could recreate it. I can say personally that they do have some pretty fantastic restrooms.
World Record Holders
Did you know that Buc-ee’s Travel Centers hold two world records? What records could they possibly hold? Well, for one, they hold the record for the longest drive through car wash in the world. It is located in Katy, Texas. Kellie and I made the hour long trip just to check it out and see how big it really is. It did not disappoint. It is 255 feet long and is capable of holding up to 16 cars at the same time. We took Kellie’s Jeep Gladiator through it and came out squeaky clean. If you are in the area, this is a definite must-stop destination.
The second world record is for the largest convenience store. This store is located in New Braunfels, Texas and is 66,335 square feet. This location has 60 gas pumps and 84 toilets. We haven’t had the chance to make it there yet, but it’s on the list.
Snacks
From beaver nuggets and fudge to beef jerky and bar b que, Buc-ee’s Travel Centers have the best snacks. I personally love the egg rolls. They also have chopped brisket sandwiches, pizza sticks, and did I mention fudge? When we visited the store in Katy, I got the fudge sampler. It contains every flavor that is available. I called it a half pound of yummy goodness. The fudge flavors range from classic chocolate to butter pecan and everything in between. Whatever you’re craving, there is no doubt you will find something to snack on. Don’t forget to fill up on their famous sweet tea before you leave.
Conclusion On Buc-ee’s Travel Center
If you are planning to do any RV camping in Texas, make sure you put a Buc-ee’s Travel Center on your list of must-see Texas attractions. Simply Google, “Buc-ee’s Near Me” and follow the directions to the nearest location. The larger of the stores will provide you with a shopping cart on your way in the front door. I can guarantee you will find things you never thought you needed. From tie-dyed Buc-ee’s T-shirts to Texas shaped cutting boards, there is something for everyone. Have you been to one of the Buc-ee’s Travel Centers? Leave us a comment below and tell us about it.
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