Depending on who you ask, Buc-ee’s can either sound like a road trip oasis or the ninth circle of hell. The enormous convenience stores—the chain’s largest location holds a world record, at 75,593 square feet—began in Texas, naturally, and have spread across the South, bringing their maximalist offerings and cult following with them. Georgia’s highways now boast two locations , with two more under construction.

Inside, the mammoth pit stop is filled with everything from kolaches to swimsuits and throw pillows. The grinning face of Buc-ee’s, the adorable beaver mascot, guides you to each location from miles away via a series of quirky interstate billboards. Each store is usually crowded. There’s nowhere to sit and eat. It boasts more tchotchkes than your grandmother’s living room. But

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