If you’ve ever driven on a Texas highway for an extended period of time, you’ve probably seen a billboard for Buc-ee’s. This gas station chain is all over Texas, and has even started expanding into other states. But I almost feel bad for calling Buc-ee’s a gas station. It’s even too nice to just be called a rest stop. Buc-ee’s is truly an experience.

When you walk up to a Buc-ee’s for a first time, you may initially wonder where am I? What have I just stumbled upon? Is this a gas station, or a Walmart? It’s easy to go into a state of shock just rolling up to Buc-ee’s, but the sense of amazement probably won’t go away when you walk inside.

Just inside Buc-ee’s doors, you’re greeted with a huge table with the latest Buc-ee’s gear, usually themed to match an upcoming holiday. Buc-ee’s has somewhat of a cult following, and some superfans even make it a point to grab a new shirt with Buc-ee the Beaver‘s face on it every time they come.

Past the entrance and heaps of Buc-ee’s t-shirts, you’ll find their hot food stations. Buc-ee’s specializes in BBQ, but also has a bakery and serves things like kolaches as well. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to pick up some of their homemade fudge or cake balls while you’re here.

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For being a rest stop, Buc-ee’s is actually a great place to shop for gifts, especially during the holiday season. If you have a Buc-ee’s enthusaist on your shopping list, there’s things like Buc-ee’s plush toys, towels, magnets, blankets, bottle openers, and more. For more more casual Buc-ee’s fans, you can find something in their home goods department, instead.

(Fun fact: The Pride of Oklahoma visited a Buc-ee’s on the way to the Sugar Bowl back in 2016. On the stop during the return trip, we were scolded over the intercom for turning all of the Texas Longhorns items upside down, and were asked not to do that again. We did anyways.)

Buc-ee’s has a huge selection of candy and snacks to choose from, if you pulled up with a sweet tooth. From their own brand of candies, to commonplace brands, they’re sure to have whatever goodie you’re looking for.

I love Buc-ee’s and look forward to stopping whenever I travel through Texas. My personal favorite snacks to cop are a cherry ICEE and some glazed almonds, but I like trying new things, too. They have such a great selection that those with an adventurous palate could probably try something new every time you stopped and never repeat a snack!

-K