When it comes to making a pit stop on a road trip, there are typically two types of places you can choose from.
First, there are the standard gas stations, known for their mediocre food and below-average bathrooms. On the other hand, some gas stations function as travel malls, offering fresh-smoked brisket, jerky, and themed merchandise—turning a bathroom break into a fun part of the itinerary. And that place? Buc-ee’s, duh.
Fortunately, Buc-ee’s is expanding into the Midwest. The large travel center is currently planned for Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and another one is approved for Greenwood, Indiana—both of which are within driving distance from Chicago.
So, why were these locations chosen? Both projects share a clear vision: to place an all-in-one road trip stop right alongside major interstate routes. Oak Creek will be located at I-94 and West Elm Road, while Greenwood’s is planned just east of I-65, south of Indianapolis.
Wisconsin’s planned location brings Buc-ee’s closer to Chicagoland
For Chicago-area fans, Oak Creek will be closest. The planned ~28-acre development at the southwest corner of I-94 and West Elm Road will feature a 73,370-square-foot store, 120 gas pumps, and the chain’s signature food, shopping, and restrooms.
Construction is currently underway at the Oak Creek site. WISN reported that vertical construction is expected to begin by the end of the year, with the reported opening target remaining early 2028.
Indiana has approved its first Buc-ee’s
Greenwood’s Common Council voted 7–2 to approve a rezoning proposal for the planned development near I-65 and Worthsville Road, moving Indiana’s first Buc-ee’s closer to construction.
The $85 million project plans to build a 74,000-square-foot store with 120 gas pumps and EV charging stations on more than 37 acres near I-65. The proposal also includes walking trails that will connect to Greenwood’s existing trail system.
For Chicagoans traveling south through Indianapolis, this location could eventually provide another Buc-ee’s stop along the route. While the Greenwood location is expected to open in late 2028, an exact opening date has not yet been confirmed.
