The highly anticipated convenience store, known for its vast array of offerings, is making its way to St. Lucie and Ocala, though the wait will be a bit longer.
TAMPA, Fla. — The beloved Texas-based gas station and convenience store chain is expanding its footprint in Florida with two new locations.
Whether you’re stopping for a fuel refill, indulging in their popular brisket sandwiches, or shopping for apparel featuring the iconic beaver mascot, Buc-ee’s is set to arrive in St. Lucie County and Ocala, albeit not immediately.
The St. Lucie County outlet, situated near Indrio Road and Interstate 95, is slated to open its doors in 2027. Meanwhile, the Ocala branch, positioned between Interstate 75 and U.S. Highway 301, is expected to welcome customers in 2028, as detailed on the company’s website.
Currently, Florida hosts Buc-ee’s locations in St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, both inaugurated in 2021.
The governor once praised Buc-ee’s as the “Shangri-La of service stations,” lauding its courteous employees, immaculate restrooms, and extensive amenities.
The convenience store offers thousands of snack, drink and meal options for on-the-go travelers and Floridians alike. Some fan favorites are homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver nuggets and fresh pastries.
If they haven’t already, Floridians will come to love the friendly sight of that smiling beaver, as Buc-ee’s has redefined traveling for customers across the South. Since it was founded in 1982, Buc-ee’s has made its mark across Texas. In recent years, the gas station has opened locations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee.
The store in Ocala was supposed to be the largest location to exist, but a new store that opened in Texas now holds the title of the largest Buc-ee’s, according to the Ocala Gazette. The Florida spot was going to be 80,000 square feet originally, but will now be 74,000 square feet, just under the size of the Texas store.
Developers also submitted proposed plans in February for a Buc-ee’s in Tallahassee, north of I-10.
10 Tampa Bay News’ Andrea Chu contributed to this report.
