Buc-ee’s: the unlikely road trip destination

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Britney Mitchell, edited on Canva

With the combination of social media coverage and word of mouth, an unorthodox gas station has stolen the hearts of Americans with numerous unusual attractions not typically found at a gas station. Buc-ee’s attracts the eye with an overwhelming amount of gas pumps lining the exterior of the multi-faceted gas station.

Amber Roldan, Editor-in-Chief

With the sky-rocketing of social media usage over the past decade, trends manifest and fade almost as fast as the seasons change. From fidget spinners to flare leggings, when trends pop up on social media, they remain nearly impossible to escape. Considering that driving most cars requires fuel, a gas station resembles an odd trend. Nonetheless, Buc-ee’s breaks the internet as Georgians drive across the state to emerge themselves in the unique environment that Buc-ee’s creates. In a society where fitting in can resemble a survival strategy, conforming quickly becomes a constant for teenagers hoping to stay afloat. Local teens have turned visiting a gas station into an adventure as they travel to experience the intriguing environment Buc-ee the Beaver offers at all of his fuel center franchises.

 Originating in Texas, Buc-ee’s made an impression on Americans nationwide. Buc-ee’s combines the traditional functions of a fuel station, rest stop and a convenience center. Unlike most gas stations and rest centers, Buc-ee’s pristine restrooms perfect the unique experience that Buc-ee’s cultivates. An abundance of stalls and frequent cleaning allows Buc-ee’s restrooms to serve their purpose without leaving shoppers disgusted as most gas stations inevitably do. Art for sale hangs on the walls of the hallways leading to the restrooms. The impromptu art gallery intrigues shoppers as they make their way to the bathroom.

Ultimately, Buc-ee’s unique attractions enthrall consumers, inspiring them to visit one of the nationwide locations. In late August of 2021, North Georgians welcomed the second Buc-ee’s into their humble state as a location appeared in [place]. The Georgia debut of the famous truck stop thrilled locals and they embraced the store’s opening.

“Buc-ee’s is honestly the biggest gas station I have ever seen, it is absolutely massive. They have everything from sandwiches to clothes to beef jerky and a humongous coffee station,” senior Kiana Hawley said.

Apart from offering a plethora of pre-packaged traditional gas station snacks, Buc-ee’s prides itself on offering a variety of fresh food cooked to order. An overwhelming amount of food options makes it nearly impossible for customers to leave unsatisfied. With jerky and pastry/dessert buffets as well as a pulled pork and barbeque circular counter located in the center of the store, Buc-ee’s impressive assortment of foods allows customers to select foods catered to their specific cravings. Customers hoping to wash down their meals with a satisfying beverage can quench their thirst by visiting Buc-ee’s coffee and ICEE bars.

Even with a multitude of menu options, one snack item stands out: beaver nuggets. Playing off of the store’s beloved mascot, Buc-ee the beaver, beaver nuggets remain one of Buc-ee’s top sellers and most sought-after snack. In spite of the contradicting name, the ingredients in beaver nuggets do not include any beaver byproducts. The delicious corn puff nugget boasts a sweet caramel brown sugar coating that leaves customers’ mouths watering.

As one makes their way through the crowded halls of NC, numerous students proudly sport Buc-ee’s merch with photos of Buc-ee the Beaver plastered on shirts, hoodies and sweatpants. By styling Buc-ee’s merch with everyday outfits, students continue to prove the popularity of the iconic gas stations.

Only 37 minutes away from NC, Buc-ee’s Calhoun location creates the perfect outing for students and staff members alike. Whether piling the family into the minivan for a quick family trip to Buc-ee’s, or turning the drive into a date night with one’s significant other, a Buc-ee’s trip will satisfy the stomachs of all who embark on the 37 minute road trip.

“Besides Buc-ee’s every gas station I have been to before have been small and just had basic food and drinks, basically you just get in and get out. But Buc-ee’s is so cool because there is clothing and home decor plus an entire jerky bar. It’s almost like a miniature Walmart,” junior Emma Henderson said.