BRUNSWICK, Ga. (WSAV) – If you’ve ever taken a journey through the southern states, you might have come across the buzz, and now it’s coastal Georgia’s moment. A massive Buc-ee’s is launching in Brunswick this Tuesday, just in time for the holiday travel surge during Independence Day.

Outside, there are countless gas pumps stretching as far as you can see. However, it’s much more than a mere gas station; it’s a destination for road travelers. This expansive travel hub is also anticipated to make a significant economic contribution to the local area, with annual sales expected to exceed $30 million, not counting the revenue from fuel sales.

At Buc-ee’s, located off exit 42 right near I-95 and State Highway 99, crowds were already queuing around the vast building. This included Glynn County residents who have been eagerly awaiting this launch since the groundbreaking back in January 2024. Moreover, among them were travelers who make it a point to visit every new Buc-ee’s location. In fact, the staff noticed familiar faces from the recent Buc-ee’s opening in Virginia just yesterday, which was the first in the state, offering a taste of Texas to the Commonwealth.

While the opening of the Brunswick location marks Georgia’s third, it’s the first along Georgia’s coast in a long stretch on I-95 between Daytona Beach, Florida and Florence, South Carolina.

A dedicated couple from Hawaii were the very first in line for the grand opening of Buc-ee’s in Mississippi – and they weren’t taking any chances. The two arrived at 2 a.m., camping out in foldout chairs to secure their spot.

Wearing custom “Buc-ee’s Mississippi” shirts, the duo told WSAV they’re no strangers to the iconic travel center. This marks their fourth Buc-ee’s location, with Georgia, Alabama, and Texas already checked off their list. Their early arrival and Buc-ee’s fandom highlight just how big of a deal this opening is for travelers and locals alike.

Brunswick’s location is Georgia’s largest Buc-ee’s to date, spanning 74,000 square feet, which is comparable to a lot of big retail stores, and featuring a whopping 120 gas pumps. Now inside, shoppers will find all the Buc-ee’s fan favorites – Texas-style barbecue, homemade fudge, 20 different kinds of jerky, and of course, beaver nuggets.

One item many customers in line said they couldn’t wait to get their hands on was the Texas Brisket. Buc-ee’s, which first opened more than 40 years ago in Texas, has made this barbecue favorite a must-have for travelers across the country.

The travel center is also expected to create over 200 full-time jobs, with employees receiving competitive pay and benefits. Located about 60 miles south of Savannah and 20 miles north of Jekyll Island, this Brunswick Buc-ee’s is strategically placed for summer travelers heading to the Georgia coast.

They opened their doors at 6 a.m. and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held later Tuesday at 11 a.m.

Buc-ee’s aims to offer something for everyone, with such a wide selection, some travelers say it’s a place you could even do your Christmas shopping. It’s far from your typical gas station.