Buc-ee’s in Smiths Grove, Kentucky: 2nd Travel Center Celebrates Grand Opening

Iconic Beaver Sign Welcomes Consumers to a One-Of-A-Kind Travel Stop

Smiths Grove in south-central Kentucky witnessed an influx of cheerful visitors as it unveiled its second Buc-ee’s travel center this Monday. A beaconing beaver sign sporting a baseball cap marked the entrance of this unique travel stopover extending over Interstate 65. The massive travel center features rows of gas pumps and an expansive storefront overflowing with diverse merchandise such as inflatables, beaver-embroidered swimwear, pillows imprinted with the animated beaver logo, amidst more.

Giant Gas Station Makes Its Appearance in Smallest Town Yet

The burgeoning gas station and convenience store chain, Buc-ee’s, marks its presence in Smiths Grove – its smallest location yet. This mellow hamlet nestled near Bowling Green, hosts a mere population of about 800. It is best known for the National Corvette Museum and Western Kentucky University in its neighboring city. Despite its quiet demeanor normally, Smiths Grove buzzed with excitement as hundreds flocked to participate in the grand opening of the Buc-ee’s travel center on Smiths Grove-Scottsville Road.

Beaver Fever Grips Locals and Travelers Alike

Among the keen patrons queued up for the 6 a.m. opening, was Karina Benitez, a first-time visitor to Buc-ee’s. With little clue about what awaited them, Karina and her family stumbled upon a pleasant surprise as they walked into this brand new location. Having previously tasted the local delights at a Buc-ee’s near Houston, they knew they could look forward to the flavorsome homemade brisket, beef jerky, and of course, the amicable beaver mascot. By the end of their brief stopover, the family’s car was brimming with an assortment of Buc-ee’s merchandise including a cozy blanket, foldable lawn chairs, a plush toy, and complimentary Buc-ee’s t-shirts.

A Texas Style Barbecue Feast

Inside the new Buc-ee’s, the main attraction was, unsurprisingly, the “Texas Round Up.” This section housed chefs donning cowboy hats, adroitly chopping and serving succulent brisket, eagerly promoted with a chant of “Fresh brisket on the board!” Randy Pauly, Buc-ee’s head pitmaster, led this culinary spectacle. Randy, justified the fervor of the occasion saying, “The details that matter—the ones that’ll make our brisket taco or brisket sandwich the absolute best, and our guests surely deserve it.”

Buc-ee’s Legacy Travels Far and Wide

Founded in early 1980s, in the state of Texas, Buc-ee’s has now swelled to a 50-store chain with sights on expanding further. The Smiths Grove store being the second in Kentucky after the Richmond location opened up in 2022. Adhering to the Texan standard of “everything’s bigger,”, the new Buc-ee’s store in Smiths Grove sprawls over 53,000 square feet. Beyond its size, the establishment, boasting of spacious bathrooms, has been showcased by the company as a hallmark of Buc-ee’s commitment to quality.

Presently, the Smiths Grove Buc-ee’s depot is staffed with over 200 employees, with more openings available at the time of writing. With this establishment, it is clear that the Buc-ee’s magic has truly spanned across the country, bringing joy to all who experience the charm of their iconic offerings and impeccable service.