The Mississippi Gulf Coast will soon be home to the first Buc-ee’s Travel Center in the Magnolia State.
The megastore is slated to be more than 80,000 square feet on 43 acres of a 183-acre parcel on the northwest corner of Menge Avenue and Interstate 10 in Pass Christian. It’s part of a multi-state expansion across the South and joins Buc-ee’s locations in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The Texas chain prides itself on being home to the world’s cleanest bathrooms, and freshest food and is headed up by the jolly cartoon beaver mascot.
Plans for the sprawling store include more than 100 fuel pumps and thousands of snack and meal and drink options for visitors to the Coast or locals who love the travel oasis with a cult-like devotion.
“It’s the reliability that keeps people coming back,” said Buc-ee’s general counsel, Jeff Nadalo. Other than a few regional differences, such as a wider selection of fishing gear at Gulf Coast stores, Buc-ee’s is insanely brand consistent.
“People come knowing that each store is clean, friendly, and stocked, 24/7, no matter what,” he said.
The Pass Christian travel center will be divided into two sections—food, both packaged and fresh, and gifts. It will also feature pristine bathrooms, the most competitively priced gasoline around, and exceptional service.
Some Buc-ee’s favorites include Beaver Nuggets, homemade fudge, jalapeno-cheddar kolache, and don’t forget the massive “Texas Round-Up” barbecue counter. There’s also an extensive drink selection, and an entire wall dedicated to Buc-ee’s jerky, which comes in a variety of flavors including lemon pepper, ghost pepper, and teriyaki. And everyone’s country-cooking grandma will be excited to find buckets of bacon grease. These big ‘ole buckets are more than seven pounds each, and you can buy them.
Josh Smith, director of Buc-ee’s operations Southeast, said the company is excited to open its first Mississippi location and described Buc-ee’s experience as, “When you walk in the door for the first time, you’re going to be hit by sensory overload. Sights and smells like the savory brisket and homemade fudge. Everything is baked at our stores. We’re a fun place and a great environment.”
Even though Buc-ee’s Travel Centers are geared towards families and travelers and do not permit 18-wheelers, the Mississippi Department of Transportation is expected to spend millions to improve the I-10 exit to accommodate increased traffic as a result of Buc-ee’s and other development slated for property in the immediate area.
Buc-ee’s Pass Christian location has not yet announced an opening date. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
*Photo courtesy of www.buc-ees.com.
