ARKANSAS - The Natural State is officially deep in the throes of "Beaver Fever." Construction is well underway for the first-ever Buc-ee’s in Arkansas, located in Benton. Following a high-profile groundbreaking ceremony led by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders in April 2025, the massive travel center is rapidly taking shape and is scheduled to open its doors in Summer 2026.Location & Scale
The new travel center is strategically situated at Exit 114 on Interstate 30 (at the intersection with Highway 229). This location places it perfectly to intercept travelers moving between Little Rock and Hot Springs, as well as cross-country traffic heading toward Texas.
The Benton location will rival the chain's largest outposts:
- Size: Approximately 74,000 square feet.
- Fuel: 120 fueling positions to minimize wait times.
- Parking: Hundreds of spaces for passenger vehicles (with the standard ban on 18-wheelers remaining in effect).
What to Expect
Arkansas residents will soon have access to the full Buc-ee’s experience without crossing state lines. The Benton store will feature:
- Food: A central barbecue carving station, fresh fudge, and a bakery churning out warm kolaches.
- Snacks: The famous wall of beef jerky and endless bags of Beaver Nuggets.
- Merchandise: A vast retail section offering everything from branded apparel to home goods and hunting gear.
- Restrooms: The brand’s "world famous" clean restrooms, which are often a primary driver for stops.
Economic Impact
City officials in Benton have hailed the project as a major economic catalyst. The store is bringing 200+ full-time jobs to the area, with starting pay expected to range well above the local minimum wage, accompanied by full benefits and three weeks of paid vacation. The site is expected to attract an estimated 5 million visitors annually, generating significant tax revenue for the city and county.
Future Expansion: West Memphis Delayed
While excitement is high for Benton, news for the state's second planned location in West Memphis is less immediate. Originally slated to follow closely behind Benton, the West Memphis project (located off I-40) has faced infrastructure and roadwork delays. Current projections have pushed the opening of that location to June 2028, meaning Benton will hold the title of the exclusive Arkansas Buc-ee’s for at least two years.
