You’ve likely heard the phrase “everything’s bigger in Texas.” Well, there’s a Texas based chain of gas stations that embodies this sentiment. Honestly, calling it a gas station is a gross understatement.
I encountered Buc-ee’s on our journey home from North Carolina last month. They just opened in Richmond, Kentucky this spring in one of their first ventures outside of Texas. While you may wonder why I’m telling you about a gas station, hear me out.
It’s a 53,000 square foot property with 120 gas pumps and a parking lot the size of one found at your average big box store. They employ about 230 people.
They claim to have the cleanest bathrooms in the world. I will give them that- the bathrooms are fabulous. The stall doors are real doors that go to the floor and everything is sparkling clean. The restroom is an oasis in an otherwise chaotic place.
Imagine Times Square with people in cowboy hats shouting about barbecue. Imagine a playground full of six year olds at recess with carts full of camping supplies, souvenir t-shirts and home decor in tow. Imagine a Madi Gras parade with a giant beaver mascot wandering past a wall of beef jerkey, refrigerators of assorted pudding parfaits, and an overwhelming variety of jams, baked goods and potato chips. There’s a burrito bar, fresh made sandwiches and nearly any kind of candy you could want.
It’s a sight to behold.
Vegetarians are not their target market but I was able to get a giant veggie burrito and a pretty little cup of banana pudding with real bananas cut up in it. And yes, I even found a couple of books that were signed by the author.
It’s one of those places everyone should experience at least once because it’s difficult to comprehend without seeing it for yourself. My introverted self was ready to go within fifteen minutes but I’m glad I went.
Also note that the construction of this gas station caused the State of Kentucky to create a new exit, install a traffic light and build a roundabout. A state had to alter its transportation plan for a gas station.
Buc-ees is located along I-75 near Richmond, Kentucky. Learn more about them at their website.