Buc-ee’s expansion is gaining speed as the Texas-based travel center chain prepares 15 more locations across the United States. The growth comes as Buc-ee’s moves beyond its home state and targets major highway markets.
The company now operates 56 stores across 13 states. Most recently, Buc-ee’s opened its first Arizona location in Goodyear, a suburb of Phoenix.
Buc-ee’s Expansion Reaches New Markets
The Goodyear location gives drivers a major new stop near Phoenix. The 74,000-square-foot travel center includes 120 fuel pumps and runs 24 hours a day.
In addition, the store will create more than 200 jobs. City officials also expected heavy traffic during the opening week, with thousands of vehicles visiting the new site.
Buc-ee’s has built its reputation on large stores, clean restrooms, fresh food and a road-trip experience that draws loyal customers. As a result, its branded snacks, brisket sandwiches, jerky, fudge and Beaver Nuggets have turned the chain into a travel destination.
More Buc-ee’s Locations Coming in 2026
Several openings are already planned for 2026. Buc-ee’s plans to open new stores in San Marcos, Texas, on Aug. 12; Benton, Arkansas, on Aug. 17; and Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on Nov. 16.
The San Marcos location will strengthen Buc-ee’s presence along the busy Interstate 35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio. That route remains one of the fastest-growing travel and business corridors in Texas.
Meanwhile, the Arkansas and Tennessee openings will continue the company’s push into the South and Midwest. These stores will also give Buc-ee’s more visibility in states where road travel and interstate commerce drive strong demand.
Buc-ee’s Expansion Includes Stores Through 2031
Buc-ee’s lists several more locations for future years. In 2027, the company expects locations in Ruston, Louisiana; Kansas City, Kansas; Gallaway, Tennessee; St. Lucie, Florida; Boerne, Texas; and Monroe County, Georgia.
Then, in 2028, Buc-ee’s plans stores in Mebane, North Carolina, and Lafayette, Louisiana. These locations would bring the brand deeper into the Southeast.
After that, additional locations are planned for 2029 and beyond. The list includes Ocala, Florida; West Memphis, Arkansas; Oak Grove, Kentucky; and Hardeeville, South Carolina. The Hardeeville store appears on the company’s pipeline for 2031.
Why Buc-ee’s Keeps Growing
Buc-ee’s began in Texas in 1982. Since then, the company has turned a Texas roadside identity into a national growth strategy.
The chain’s stores are much larger than traditional gas stations. Many locations include dozens of fuel pumps, large retail areas and extensive food counters.
Because of that model, Buc-ee’s stands out in a crowded convenience store market. Local governments also compete for new sites because each store can bring jobs, tax revenue and more traffic to nearby businesses.
What It Means for Travelers
For travelers, Buc-ee’s expansion means more stops on long road trips outside Texas. The company places many new stores near major interstates, where families, workers and commuters already need fuel and food.
The next wave also shows that Buc-ee’s no longer operates as only a regional favorite. Instead, its growing footprint moves the brand closer to becoming a national name in travel retail.
As new stores open, communities across the country will see whether the Buc-ee’s formula can keep drawing crowds far from Texas. For now, the beaver-branded chain continues adding miles to its national map.