PENNSYLVANIA - In the world of road trip destinations, few names stir as much excitement as Buc-ee's. The Texas-based travel center giant, famous for its immaculate restrooms, hundreds of gas pumps, and an endless variety of snacks like Beaver Nuggets, has developed a cult-like following. As Buc-ee's continues its aggressive expansion up the East Coast, a question is on the mind of every Keystone State traveler: "Will Pennsylvania get a Buc-ee's?" Here's what we know so far.
Current Status: No Official Plans, But Plenty of Buzz
As of August 2025, Buc-ee's has not made any official announcement or confirmed specific plans to open a location in Pennsylvania. However, the buzz and speculation are stronger than ever. The company has been strategically placing billboards in the state, including a notable one on the Pennsylvania Turnpike near the Reading and Morgantown exit, teasing travelers and fueling hope that a Pennsylvania location is on the horizon. While these billboards are currently a marketing tactic to capture the attention of travelers heading south, they show that the Keystone State is clearly on Buc-ee's radar.
The Beaver is Getting Closer: Expansion in Neighboring States
The primary reason for the heightened anticipation in Pennsylvania is Buc-ee's rapid expansion into neighboring states, bringing the beloved beaver closer than ever before.
- Virginia is for Buc-ee's Lovers: In a major move, Buc-ee's opened its first Virginia location in Mount Crawford on June 30, 2025. Located just off Interstate 81, this is currently the brand's most northeastern store and the closest one for many Pennsylvanians. A second Virginia location is already planned for New Kent County.
- Ohio on the Horizon: The first Buc-ee's in Ohio is currently under construction in Huber Heights, near Dayton. After some initial delays, it is now expected to open in the spring of 2026.
This clear northward trajectory along major travel corridors makes a future move into Pennsylvania seem like a logical and inevitable next step in the company's expansion.
What Would a Pennsylvania Buc-ee's Require?
Buc-ee's has a specific and demanding checklist for its massive locations. A potential Pennsylvania site would need:
- A Huge Parcel of Land: Buc-ee's requires a large real estate footprint, often 50 acres or more, to accommodate its 74,000-square-foot stores, over 120 gas pumps, and hundreds of parking spots.
- Major Interstate Access: The location must be situated directly on a high-traffic interstate, such as I-76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike), I-81, I-80, or I-95.
- A Welcoming Community: The company typically partners with local governments that are eager to welcome the 200+ full-time jobs and significant tourism draw that a new Buc-ee's brings.
So, When Could It Happen?
While it seems more a matter of "when" than "if," Pennsylvanians will need to remain patient. Even if Buc-ee's were to announce a location today, the process from announcement to grand opening typically takes two to three years. Given that the Virginia and Ohio locations are the current focus, the earliest a Pennsylvania Buc-ee's would likely open, if announced soon, would be 2027 or 2028. For now, Keystone State residents will have to make the road trip to Virginia to get their brisket sandwich and Beaver Nugget fix.
