By Trey Garza, Digital Producer

A new Buc-ee’s is coming to San Marcos, on the southbound side of I-35 off the Yarrington Road exit. The new store will be one of Buc-ee’s signature massive locations, featuring dozens of fuel pumps, a full kitchen, and a retail space packed with Buc-ee’s favorites. While city officials see it as a major investment in San Marcos, bringing new jobs and boosting tourism along the I-35 corridor, some students at the Texas State campus had mixed emotion about the iconic gas station. 

“I absolutely hate it,” said Tyson Taylor. “There’s one fifteen minutes down the road in New Braunfels. I don’t know why. We don’t have a QT in here. You know what I’m saying? You got to drive twenty minutes down to Kyle to get a QT, which is way better than Buc-ee’s in my opinion.” 

“I think it’s way too crowded; there’s too many people in there all the time,” said Brooklynn Wolff. “Kind of smells weird in some parts of it.” 

Despite a few critical claims, there’s no better way to see just how much people love Buc-ee’s than by looking at the crowds in its already booming locations. In New Braunfels, visitors from all over stop in for road trip essentials, from fresh barbeque to Buc-ee’s signature snacks, proving just how strong the Buc-ee’s fanbase truly is. 

“I’ve been going to Buc-ee’s since I was little,” said Caitlin Collins. “Always on road trips. I really like their roasted cashews. Those have always been good. They also have a huge drink selection, and it’s cool. You can make your own coffee. I like doing that there.” 

That loyalty is what makes Buc-ee’s more than just a gas station, it’s a Texas institution. From the iconic beaver mascot to the endless snack aisles, people go out of their way just to experience it. 

“I love Buc-ee’s,” said Keilani De Luna. “Obviously it’s a great gas station, different variety of options, and just a lot of things; like their fudge, their sandwiches, and their candy. One candy I want them to bring back though is the red licorice. Too good.” 

“You know they cool,” said Tyson Taylor. “It’s kind of like a grocery store, like a supermarket. They’ve got a lot of options. Some are better than others, if you can catch what I’m saying. They’ve got a lot of random stuff. They’ve got play kids, quejavas, sandwiches. I mean, you know they can’t specialize in everything, so in my opinion everything’s kind of wishy washy.” 

With construction now underway, it won’t be long before San Marcos has its very own Buc-ee’s experience. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as this Texas-sized project moves forward.