Buc-ee’s Just Got Some Serious Competition From an Unexpected Celebrity

No hate on fine dining, but the infinite world of gas station snacks is where it’s at, from the greatest hot dog to the best cup of coffee. America loves a good pit stop, and folks are fiercely loyal to their favorite chain—usually because of the food. From the exclusive soda at Maverick to the iconic pizza at Casey’s General Store and Kwik Trip’s (the midwestern darling, which was just named the best convenience store in the U.S.) beloved doughnuts, there’s a whole lot of delicious snacking happening all across the country.

Of course, no brand has such a passionate, boisterous following as Buc-ee’s, the Texas-founded chain known for unique snacks and a vibe you won’t find elsewhere. Buc-ee’s is no mere gas station. Oh, no. It’s an experience.

But now there’s a new gas station brand in the works from another southern hospitality powerhouse—and Buc-ee’s fans may be changing their allegiance when they see the celebrity behind it all.

Hold onto your Beaver Nuggets, y’all. Dolly Parton’s getting into the truck stop business.

Dolly Parton To Open New Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stops Next Year

Just when we think Dolly Parton has done it all, she launches a new business venture that none of us saw coming. The baking mix and cast iron cookware creator, occasional Krispy Kreme collaborator, party and drinkware designer, and celebrated cookbook author has announced a partnership with Tennessean Travel Stop to rebrand its flagship location as Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop.

Yes, really. Those road trips to Dollywood are about to be even more on brand.

“I have spent the bulk of my life on the road, and more specifically on a bus,” the country superstar said in a press release. “All the years spent visiting greasy spoon cafes, truck stops, and roadside pit stops have given me an understanding of what traveler’s desire on the road. Whether you are driving a truck, a bus, or a car, you want a place that feels like home and recharges you for the rest of your journey. I believe we will fill a void out there on the highways, all while bringing the heart and soul of Tennessee.”

Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop will replace the company’s current flagship gas station in Cornersville, Tennessee, which is about an hour and 15 minutes south of Nashville. But, according to the release, additional locations are planned across the state—because it’s only fitting that the Smokies star should open one in her “Tennessee mountain home.”

Plus, there are plans to go nationwide. “The first rebranded location will serve as both a proof of concept and flagship for future sites planned under the Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stops banner,” the release stated.

But no matter where the brand goes, it will be authentically Dolly, which means it “reflects Dolly’s love for her home state” and will feature an “evolved travel experience that integrates modern amenities, curated dining, and authentic regional retail with the approachable comfort travelers expect from both brands.”

We’re already dreaming of what that curated dining experience will be like. Perhaps there will be “a taste of mama’s homemade chocolate cake,” bags of hard candy for Christmas, or some of that world-famous cinnamon bread from Dollywood’s Grist Mill. (Of course, if Parton is making the menu, you’ll find this theme park sweet instead.) We wouldn’t mind a fountain drink station with Dollywood’s exclusive Coca-Cola flavor either!

Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop is expected to open by early summer 2026. Additional locations will also be announced in the new year.