After months of construction, fine-tuning, and even-longer anticipation, Buc-ee's in now open for business.
For the few who may not know, it's a combination gas stop, food-to-go, bar-b-q accessories, plus a section unique to each location. In the case of Texas City, that means whatever you need on the road to Galveston or fishing.
Here, customers can buy swimwear and surfboards, saltwater fishing lures and frozen bait -- even rods and reels. And if you're not into seafood, there are bar-b-q pits for sale. And if you don't feel like cooking, there's brisket to go and more.
A visitor from Dallas stopped in on a whim when he saw the trademark smiling beaver beckoning beside the Texas City exit. He had heard of Buc-ees before but never experienced it. In one visit he says, he's been sold on it, calling the fishing section "man heaven." His only regret is that there's not one close enough to Dallas. "We're the 9th largest city in the country, but no Buc-ee's?"
The store opened to big crowds early Wednesday morning and more were expected again after school. In addition to being a tourist attraction, the store is also providing jobs. One worker said a family-owned company, rather than large corporation, offers more opportunities for advancement.
The big draw, aside from the merchandise and food, remains Buc-ee's sparkling clean bathrooms. Often that's the first stop customers make. It was part of the owner's philosophy -- provide good service and clean surroundings and they will come.
It's working. They still are and in big numbers. And another is coming in the area – Baytown, opening date to be announced.
