Buc-ee's Returns To Its Roots With 2 New Texas Locations
Buc-ee's Returns To Its Roots With 2 New Texas Locations

Buc-ee’s has become one of America’s most recognizable travel center brands thanks to its spotless restrooms, oversized stores, and a food lineup that turns quick stops into road-trip rituals. After decades of dominating Texas, the company is entering a period of rapid nationwide expansion.

The years 2026, 2027, and 2028 will bring more new Buc-ee’s locations than any previous stretch, including first-ever stores in several states. Below is a clean, complete, backlink-free breakdown of where Buc-ee’s is headed next and what travelers can expect.

Buc-ee’s New Locations Opening in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year as Buc-ee’s moves deeper into the Midwest and Southwest while strengthening its Texas footprint.

Huber Heights, Ohio – Opening April 2026

This will be Buc-ee’s first location in Ohio and one of its most anticipated openings. The travel center is expected to span roughly 74,000 square feet with a large fuel layout similar to the brand’s flagship stores. Early details mention around 100 fueling positions, plus EV chargers, making it one of the largest convenience-center investments in the region.

Goodyear, Arizona – Opening June 2026

Arizona will welcome its first Buc-ee’s in the growing western suburbs of Phoenix. Plans show a store footprint near 74,000 square feet with about 120 fueling stations. This location positions Buc-ee’s along a major western travel corridor, giving long-distance drivers a new stop between Texas and the Pacific states.

San Marcos, Texas – Opening July 2026

Located between Austin and San Antonio, the San Marcos Buc-ee’s is expected to reach about 74,707 square feet. The surrounding corridor has some of the state’s heaviest traffic, which makes this store a strategic addition and a relief point for travelers heading either direction along I-35.

Boerne, Texas – Opening 2026

This store has been scaled down after local discussions but remains significant at roughly 54,000 square feet with 100 fueling stations and space for EV charging. Community input shaped the final design, proving Buc-ee’s willingness to adapt its typical mega-format when needed.

Benton, Arkansas – Opening September 2026

This project marks Arkansas’ first-ever Buc-ee’s. Construction is underway near I-30, and city officials expect it to pull travelers from across the region. It is projected to have a Texas-style layout similar to newer out-of-state builds and is expected to bring major economic activity to the area.

Other Possible 2026 Openings

Although not officially dated, several locations listed in the company’s long-term plan may also land in the 2026 window if construction progresses faster than expected. Potential candidates include sites in Florida and Georgia, but Buc-ee’s has not yet announced firm months for those builds.

Buc-ee’s Locations Scheduled for 2027

The 2027 expansion list shows Buc-ee’s moving into new states while deepening its reach into key southeastern and midwestern travel routes.

Mebane, North Carolina – Expected Late 2026 or Early 2027

The first Buc-ee’s in North Carolina is set to cover around 74,000 to 75,000 square feet. The project has already generated immense regional interest. Once open, it will reshape travel along the I-40 corridor, long known for heavy interstate tourism and commercial traffic.

Kansas City, Kansas – Opening 2027

This store, planned for the I-70 region, is expected to reach approximately 74,000 square feet with an extensive fuel layout. Its placement near major freight and passenger routes ensures high visibility and steady traffic year-round.

Additional 2027 Planned Locations

Buc-ee’s has also listed other states expected to receive locations in the 2027 window. While exact square footage and opening months remain unannounced, the company’s published development roadmap includes future stores in states such as:

  • Arkansas

  • Louisiana

  • Kentucky

  • Tennessee

  • Florida

  • Texas

As construction milestones become public, more precise timelines will likely be revealed.

Buc-ee’s Stores Expected in 2028

The year 2028 includes some of the company’s most intriguing expansions, particularly into fast-growing southeastern corridors.

Monroe County, Georgia – Opening 2028

This large site will serve travelers between Atlanta and Macon. The region already hosts major distribution centers and a growing population, making it a logical addition to Buc-ee’s network.

Lafayette, Louisiana – Opening 2028

Lafayette’s travel corridors support heavy tourism and commercial movement, and the new Buc-ee’s aims to become the regional anchor stop for both I-10 and Gulf Coast travelers.

Mebane, North Carolina

Although targeted for late 2026 or 2027, some development schedules suggest the location could slide into 2028 depending on construction timelines. The state remains a high priority.

Ocala, Florida – Opening 2028

Florida continues to be one of Buc-ee’s strongest out-of-Texas markets. Ocala’s placement along a high-traffic interstate makes it ideal for long-distance road trips and seasonal travel peaks.

West Memphis, Arkansas – Opening 2028

As Arkansas continues to grow within the Buc-ee’s network, West Memphis positions the brand along a major national crossroads where thousands of travelers pass daily.

The Bigger Picture: Why Buc-ee’s Is Expanding So Fast

Buc-ee’s has taken a slow and methodical approach to expansion for decades. The new wave of openings signals the start of a larger national strategy driven by several factors:

1. Strategic placement along interstate corridors

All the upcoming stores sit along heavy-traffic highways. These routes guarantee a steady flow of drivers and put Buc-ee’s in direct competition with national travel-center chains.

2. Regional economies benefit from the Buc-ee’s effect

A new Buc-ee’s typically means:

  • Hundreds of local jobs

  • Increased highway tourism

  • Boosted property values

  • Additional businesses opening nearby

Communities now compete to attract the brand because the economic lift is proven.

3. Meeting demand for EV-ready infrastructure

Newer Buc-ee’s locations include dozens of EV chargers. As road-trip electrification accelerates, the chain is positioning itself as the go-to stop for both gas and electric drivers.

4. Brand loyalty fuels nationwide demand

What started as a Texas phenomenon has turned into a nationwide following. Travelers who experience Buc-ee’s on vacation often lobby for one in their own state, helping shape expansion momentum.

Complete Snapshot: Buc-ee’s Expansion Timeline 2026–2028

Year City & State Notes
2026 Huber Heights, OH First Ohio store, approx. 74,000 sq ft
Goodyear, AZ First Arizona store, approx. 74,000 sq ft
San Marcos, TX Large I-35 location
Boerne, TX Scaled-down build around 54,000 sq ft
Benton, AR First Arkansas store, opening Sept 2026
2027 Mebane, NC First North Carolina store
Kansas City, KS Major Midwest expansion
Additional sites Planned in TX, TN, KY, LA, FL
2028 Monroe County, GA Key Georgia travel corridor
Lafayette, LA New Gulf Coast anchor location
Ocala, FL Florida expansion continues
West Memphis, AR Major interstate crossroads

Final Thoughts

Buc-ee’s is entering its busiest expansion period ever. With massive new stores planned across the Midwest, Southeast, and Southwest, the years 2026 through 2028 will redefine the brand’s national presence. Travelers can expect more giant stores, more EV-friendly infrastructure, and the same reliable Buc-ee’s experience that made the chain famous.