The massive gas station phenomenon Buc-ee’s has opened a new location in Rockingham, Virginia on Monday, June 30, 2025. It’s a special occasion because it is the first location to open in Virginia. If you are somehow unaware of what Buc-ee’s is, it is a gas station chain based in Texas known for its massive scale, signature food items, and its iconic mascot. While it originated in Texas, it has expanded across the southeast United States and continues to grow.
Buc-ee’s is most commonly known as the Walmart-sized gas station. The Rockingham location is about two-thirds the size of the average Walmart. It took seventeen months to build, and Governor Glenn Youngkin attended the grand opening. Its sheer size can be seen from the highway, and the store is often packed with people. “I think Buc-ee’s gives a good impact on society. It brings tourism, which boosts the economy for the local area of Harrisonburg (Rockingham),” says Christian Bolling (11). It truly is a gas station unlike any other. Two-thirds of the store is lined with food and drinks, and the other third is a big gift shop and clothing store.
One aspect of Buc-ee’s that has gripped Americans is their signature food items, including fresh barbeque, Buc-ee’s brand pork rinds and chips, roasted nuts, banana pudding, beaver nuggets (a puffed corn snack), and jerky, to name a few. It’s natural to stop by and be intrigued by these items; it almost feels like a necessity to try a couple when you stop by. Many Virginians are excited that these items have come so close to home. “People will actually make special trips to go to Buc-ee’s. There’s people everywhere—it’s a real experience,” Officer Shrader (SRO) highlights…