My LHBS is about a 10-15 drive away depending on the time of day and traffic. I have no problem driving there, but I think about a 30 drive (one way) would be my max. They do have another location about 30 mins away that seems to be slightly larger. My problem is, the LHBS shop is a Hydroponics and Home Brewing shop. Whenever I ask any questions the person working there pulls up a spreadsheet or Googles it (at least at the closer location). So I've learned not to bother asking questions and take the extra time looking up things while I'm there myself if needed (i.e. substitutions for ingredients they are out of).
Usually I only buy my grains there, bulk since they are typically slightly cheaper then shipping. Or the occasional hop variety that I need or want to try before I buy it in bulk or a small part I need ASAP. Bulk hops I'll usually buy online.
Anyhow, this makes me wonder if there is any way I could open a HBS myself closer to me and offer local beers on draft as a bonus. I wish I could take the plunge if it made sense, but having two little kids I don't want to lose the time I have with them now. Maybe when they are teenagers and want their space...
Don't with the lengthy response and rambling...