Buc-ee’s has become a roadside phenomenon thanks to its massive stores, famously clean bathrooms, and cult-favorite food and merchandise that turn routine gas stops into destinations. Despite its growing national footprint, the vast majority of Buc-ee’s locations remain in Texas, where the brand was founded and continues to dominate the travel center landscape.
That’s about to change for some states, while others will remain Buc-ee’s-less. Why do some states not have Buc-ee’s? As it turns out, several factors determine where Buc-ee’s chooses to expand (or not).
Where Buc-ee’s is actively expanding
Buc-ee’s has rapidly grown beyond its Texas roots, turning its oversized travel centers into regional attractions across the South and Midwest. In recent years, the chain has confirmed expansion into Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, and Wisconsin, with multiple locations either already open or under development.
Florida has emerged as one of Buc-ee’s most aggressive growth markets. It now has two locations since 2018, and another one is planned in Ocala. Tennessee and Kentucky are also key targets, serving as strategic highway hubs that attract long-distance travelers — a core part of the company’s business model.
Colorado marks one of Buc-ee’s most notable western expansions (there is one location in Johnstown), signaling the brand’s confidence that its large-format stores can succeed outside the Southeast and Texas corridor.
Why some states are being skipped
Despite its rapid growth, Buc-ee’s has been selective about where it builds. States with dense urban areas, limited land availability, or restrictive zoning rules have largely been bypassed. The company favors locations near major interstates where it can construct massive footprints, often exceeding 50,000 square feet, with hundreds of fuel pumps.
States with heavy toll-road systems or limited highway-accessible parcels have proven less attractive to Buc-ee’s, according to industry observers familiar with the company’s expansion strategy.
Expansion comes with community debate
Not every proposed Buc-ee’s project moves forward smoothly. While many towns welcome the promise of jobs and tourism traffic, others raise concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact, and pressure on local infrastructure.
In some cases, Buc-ee’s has withdrawn proposals after facing local opposition (such is the case in Colorado with its proposed second location), reinforcing that expansion is as much about community alignment as it is about geography.
What’s next for the chain
Buc-ee’s has not released a full nationwide roadmap. Still, its recent pattern suggests continued growth along major interstate corridors, particularly in states that can support its massive, destination-style locations. As demand grows, more states may soon find themselves on — or off — Buc-ee’s expansion map.
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