Buc-ee’s Grand Opening Draws Devoted Fans to Columbus Store
Texas travel center chain Buc-ee’s opened its first Ohio location Monday, drawing over 1,000 fans who lined up overnight for the Columbus grand opening experience.
COLUMBUS, OHIO — Hundreds of customers lined up outside the new Buc-ee’s travel center Monday morning as the Texas-based chain opened its first Ohio location, creating a carnival-like atmosphere across the parking lot.
The 53,000-square-foot store at 7171 East Broad Street welcomed its first customers at 6 a.m., with some visitors camping overnight to secure their spot in line. Store officials said more than 1,000 people waited before opening time, many traveling from neighboring states to experience what has become a cult phenomenon in the travel center industry.
“I drove four hours from Pittsburgh just for this,” said Jennifer Martinez, who arrived at 4 a.m. with her family. “My sister lives in Texas and she’s been telling me about Buc-ee’s for years. I had to see what all the fuss was about.”
Record-Breaking Store Features
The Columbus location is Buc-ee’s largest travel center outside of Texas. The facility houses 120 fueling positions, making it one of the biggest gas stations in the Midwest, according to company representatives.
Inside, customers discovered the chain’s signature offerings spread across an area larger than most department stores. The location features a barbecue restaurant, fudge counter, clothing section, and convenience items ranging from car accessories to home goods. Store managers said they employed more than 200 local workers to staff the operation.
“The scale is just incredible,” said Mark Thompson, who visited from Cleveland with his teenage children. “I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s like a theme park and a gas station had a baby.”
Economic Impact for Columbus
City officials estimate the new Buc-ee’s will generate significant tax revenue and create lasting economic benefits for the Columbus metro area. The company invested approximately $50 million in the location, including infrastructure improvements to surrounding roads.
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, praising the development as a boost to local tourism. “This isn’t just a gas station, it’s a destination that will bring visitors from across the region,” Ginther said during the morning ceremony.
The store’s opening represents Buc-ee’s continued expansion beyond its Texas roots. The company operates more than 40 locations across the South and has announced plans for additional stores in Kentucky, Missouri, and other Midwest states over the next two years.
Many first-time visitors expressed amazement at the product selection and store layout. The facility stocks thousands of items, from Buc-ee’s branded merchandise to specialty foods and travel supplies. Company officials said the Columbus store will carry the full range of products available at other locations, including the famous Beaver Nuggets snack that has developed a devoted following.
“People told me about the food, but I didn’t expect the quality to be this good,” said Sarah Williams, who purchased barbecue sandwiches for her family. “The brisket is better than some restaurants I’ve been to.”
Store management expects busy crowds to continue throughout the opening week, with special promotions and giveaways planned for the first several days of operation. The location will remain open 24 hours daily, consistent with most Buc-ee’s stores, to serve travelers on Interstate 70 and other major highways.
