Buc-ee’s opens first Florida travel center near World Golf Village

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Buc-ee’s officially opened its first travel center in Florida at 6 a.m. Monday near World Golf Village. A ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce was held at 11 a.m.

The center at 200 World Commerce Parkway occupies 52,600 square feet and has 104 fueling stations. The gas station and convenience store are open 24 hours, and the latter features thousands of snack, meal and drink options. Signature favorites include Texas barbeque, homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver nuggets, jerky and fresh pastries.

The opening drew a large crowd of Buc-ee’s fans Monday.

“Picking St. Augustine for our first Florida location made sense for many reasons, but its proximity to our other locations across the South was our initial motivator,” said Stan Beard, Buc-ee's director of real estate. “Location aside, our owners fell in love with the rich history and warm hospitality of St. Augustine. With their crystal-clear beaches and walkable atmosphere, St. Augustine is among the most beautiful cities in Florida. We are excited to offer visitors and residents the experience and convenience of Buc-ee’s and can’t wait to become a part of the local community.”

Construction is underway for a second Florida location in Daytona Beach, which is expected to open next month.

The two Florida “outposts” continue Buc-ee’s multi-state expansion across the South, joining stores in Georgia and Alabama. Buc-ee’s first travel center in South Carolina is also currently under construction and is slated for opening in 2022.

Buc-ee’s continues to operate 38 locations in Texas, where it was founded by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III in 1982. In fact, the world’s largest gas station is the Buc-ee’s in New Braunfels, Texas, which has 120 gas pumps, 1,000 parking spots and a 67,000-square-foot store.

The St. Johns County center will bring approximately 200 new, permanent, full-time jobs to the area.