Buc-ee's Facts & Trivia
Everything you ever wanted to know about America's favorite travel center. From humble Texas beginnings to record-breaking mega stores.
Quick Facts at a Glance
History
Founded in 1982
The first Buc-ee's opened in Lake Jackson, Texas, founded by Arch 'Beaver' Aplin III and Don Wasek. What started as a small convenience store has grown into one of America's most beloved travel center chains.
The Name's Origin
The Buc-ee's name combines founder Arch Aplin's childhood nickname 'Beaver' with his dog's name 'Buck,' and draws inspiration from Bucky the Beaver, the mascot from vintage Ipana toothpaste advertisements.
Texas-Only Until 2019
For 37 years, Buc-ee's existed only in Texas. The first out-of-state location opened in Alabama in 2019, marking the beginning of regional expansion across the Southern United States.
Records
World's Largest Convenience Store
The Sevierville, Tennessee location spans over 74,000 square feet, making it the largest convenience store in the world. It features 120 fuel pumps and over 700 parking spaces.
World's Longest Car Wash
The Katy, Texas Buc-ee's is home to the world's longest car wash at 255 feet. This massive car wash can clean vehicles with precision rivaling professional detailers.
The New Braunfels Giant
The iconic New Braunfels, Texas location on I-35 features 120 fuel positions, 83 restroom stalls, 31 cash registers, and over 1,000 parking spots. It once held the world's largest convenience store title.
Size
100+ Fuel Pumps
Large Buc-ee's locations typically feature over 100 fuel pumps, with some having 120 or more. This massive capacity means you rarely wait in line for gas, even during peak travel times.
Bigger Than a Football Field
Many Buc-ee's stores span 50,000-75,000 square feet—larger than a standard football field. The stores are so large that shopping carts are available for customers to use.
Operations
Open 24/7/365
Every Buc-ee's location operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You can stop at Buc-ee's on Christmas morning, Thanksgiving night, or 3 AM on a random Tuesday.
No 18-Wheelers Allowed
Buc-ee's explicitly prohibits commercial trucks and 18-wheelers from their properties. This policy maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and ensures parking availability for travelers. There are no showers or trucker amenities—it's a travel center, not a truck stop.
Award-Winning Restrooms
Buc-ee's is famous for having the cleanest restrooms in America. Full-time attendants maintain the facilities around the clock, and the spacious restrooms feature floor-to-ceiling privacy partitions.
Above-Average Employee Pay
Buc-ee's pays significantly higher than industry average for convenience store workers. This investment in employees shows in the attentive service and immaculately maintained stores.
Extensive Security
Buc-ee's locations feature comprehensive security camera systems. Some stores have over 200 high-tech cameras that can track customers from entrance to exit, making them safe stops even late at night.
Food
Beaver Nuggets: Cult Favorite
Beaver Nuggets are sweet, crunchy caramel-coated corn puffs exclusive to Buc-ee's. They've achieved cult status among fans, with regular customers buying them by the armful.
In-House Smoked Brisket
Buc-ee's smokes brisket on-site at every location. Fresh-sliced or chopped brisket sandwiches are made throughout the day—you can smell the smokers before you even enter the store.
Wall of Jerky
Each Buc-ee's features an extensive jerky section with dozens of flavors, from classic peppered beef to exotic varieties. The selection rivals specialty jerky shops.
Shopping
Endless Merchandise
Beyond snacks, Buc-ee's sells clothing, home decor, outdoor gear, seasonal items, and countless beaver-themed souvenirs. The merchandise selection rivals department stores.
Visitor Info
Restrooms Are Free
You don't need to make a purchase to use Buc-ee's restrooms. The famous clean bathrooms are available to all travelers, though most visitors end up buying something after seeing the selection.
Ready to Experience Buc-ee's?
Plan your road trip to visit all 54 Buc-ee's locations. Use our route planner to find the most efficient path and track your visits.